Health Care Assistant - Nursing Resource Unit
Health Care Assistant – Nursing Resource Unit
Whanganui Hospital | Casual
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.
About the Role
Are you compassionate, dedicated, and looking for a rewarding role in health care? Join our dynamic team at Whanganui Hospital as a Health Care Assistant! We are seeking enthusiastic individuals to provide essential support in either our General or Mental Health Wards on a casual basis.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assist patients with daily living activities and personal care.
- Support nursing staff in delivering high-quality patient care.
- Monitor and record patient conditions as directed.
- Provide close supportive observations for patients who have high risk of falls or harm.
- Help maintain a safe and hygienic environment.
Qualifications:
- Previous experience as a Health Care Assistant or in a similar role is preferred, but not essential.
- Completion of Careerforce papers preferred, but not essential.
- Basic understanding of health care principles and practices.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
What We Offer:
- Flexible casual hours to fit your schedule.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- A supportive and inclusive work environment.
If you are ready to make a difference in the lives of patients and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we want to hear from you!
About the Team
Whanganui Hospital's Perioperative Service provides elective and acute surgical care across four operating theatres, supported by a dedicated Pre-Admission Clinic, Day Unit and PACU. Together, our teams provide seamless care from pre-operative assessment through to recovery and discharge.
We pride ourselves on being a supportive, collaborative team where everyone's contribution is valued. Our leaders are committed to creating an environment where staff feel empowered to grow professionally, contribute ideas and continually improve the care we provide.
This is an exciting time to join our service as we continue to strengthen our leadership structure and invest in developing our people.
About You
You are an experienced Senior Registered Nurse who enjoys leading by example and supporting others to reach their full potential. You thrive in a fast-paced environment, communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and are committed to delivering outstanding patient-centred care.
You will bring:
- Current registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand and a current Annual Practising Certificate.
- At least five years' recent perioperative nursing experience, including experience in perioperative settings.
- Previous leadership or senior nursing experience.
- Excellent communication, coaching and relationship-building skills.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
- A passion for patient-centred care, quality improvement and staff development.
- A relevant postgraduate qualification or commitment to working towards one.
Why Choose Whanganui?
Imagine finishing work and within10 minutes being home, walking along the beach, paddling the Whanganui River or enjoying one of New Zealand's thriving arts communities.
Whanganui offers an exceptional lifestyle with affordable housing, excellent schools, short commute times and easy access to both Wellington, New Plymouth or Ruapehu. Whether you're looking for more time with family, outdoor adventure, or a better work-life balance, Whanganui offers the opportunity to build both your career and your lifestyle.
Joining our team means becoming part of a close-knit hospital where your ideas are valued, your leadership is visible, and you have the opportunity to make a real difference every day.
Working at Health New Zealand
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and serve our communities. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.
If you are looking for a leadership opportunity where you can grow professionally while enjoying an outstanding quality of life, we'd love to hear from you.
How to Apply
To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers' portal If you have any questions about the role, please contact Jevada Haitana jevada.haitana@wdhb.org.nz
We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.

Job details
| Job Reference: | 1954733 | |
|---|---|---|
| Location: |
|
|
| Job type: | Casual | |
| Expertise: |
|
|
| Closes: | 13-Nov-2026 | |
| Attachments: | HCA - NRU JD.pdf (PDF, 700KB) Job Description |