Sustaining Tenancies Navigator – Korowai Manaaki

About Us

Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa is a kaupapa Māori organisation grounded in a whānau-first, tikanga-based wellbeing approach. Our mahi is guided by our six pou: whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, arohatanga, rangatiratanga, tika and pono. We deliver health and social services across the lifespan and have nigh on 150 kaimahi working across Kirikiriroa and beyond.

About the Role

Korowai Manaaki is seeking a full-time Sustaining Tenancies Navigator to walk alongside whanaunga experiencing challenges that put their tenancy at risk. You will provide practical, whānau-led support to help whanaunga address tenancy concerns, build confidence in managing their home, and stay connected with the services they need.

You will receive whanaunga after their initial assessment and allocation. Working from their agreed goal plan, you will support them with matters such as rent arrears, property care, communication with landlords, access to essential services, and other barriers to tenancy stability.

This role sits within the Korowai Manaaki service and is guided by the Sustaining Tenancies Team Lead.

The working hours are 8:30am – 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Key Responsibilities

• Build trusting, professional relationships with whanaunga and, where appropriate, their whānau and support networks
• Deliver practical support in line with each whanaunga’s agreed goal plan and assigned service level
• Help whanaunga address tenancy concerns and develop skills in property care, budgeting, household routines, and communication with landlords or property managers
• Advocate for whanaunga and coordinate support with housing providers, community organisations, and other relevant services, within the consent provided
• Identify practical barriers that may be addressed through the Whanaunga Fund or other funding pathways, obtain required approvals, and coordinate approved assistance
• Recognise emerging risks, follow safety procedures, and raise significant changes or concerns with the appropriate team member
• Manage an allocated caseload and maintain accurate case notes, funding records, and reporting information
• Participate in team hui, supervision, kaupapa-based activities, and training opportunities

Skills

• Ability to build respectful, trusting relationships with people facing housing or other life challenges
• Strong communication, advocacy, and practical problem-solving skills
• Ability to provide whānau-led support while maintaining professional boundaries
• Confidence working with landlords, housing providers, and other services to resolve tenancy concerns
• Organisational skills and the ability to manage a caseload, follow up agreed actions, and keep accurate records
• Sound judgement when recognising risks, seeking guidance, and working within consent and approval requirements
• Cultural competency and willingness to learn and apply kaupapa Māori approaches

Experience

• Experience in housing support, tenancy sustainment, social services, community services, or a related setting
• Experience supporting people to address practical barriers and connect with relevant services
• Experience managing a caseload, coordinating referrals, or working with housing providers is advantageous

Qualifications and Education

• Qualification in social services, housing, community work, or a related field preferred, or relevant experience
• Full New Zealand driver licence
• Ability to pass Police and OT vetting

Benefits

• Work in a kaupapa Māori organisation rooted in community service and cultural integrity
• Monthly supervision and ongoing development opportunities
• Access to medical insurance
• Supportive team environment with a strong commitment to whanaungatanga and collective uplift

Ready to Join Us?

If you’re passionate about helping whanaunga sustain their living situations and are committed to a whānau-first, tikanga-based wellbeing approach, we’d love to hear from you. This role offers the opportunity to provide practical support when it matters and help whanaunga build lasting housing stability.

Join us in making a difference – apply now.

Applications welcome until 06/10/2026.