Starting salary from $106,416 to $117,782
Oranga Tamariki—Ministry for Children is dedicated to putting children and young people at the centre of everything we do. Our purpose is simple but powerful: to ensure Aotearoa New Zealand is the best place in the world to be a child.
We are guided by values that shape how we work every day:
* We believe care and compassion aroha matter
* We respect the dignity and strength mana of every individual
* We act with integrity tika and pono
* We honourwhakapapa (connection and identity)
* We understand wellbeing oranga is a lifelong journey
We work in partnership with Māori communities, iwi and organisations to deliver better outcomes for tamariki and their whānau.
Why Makethe Move?
If you're currently in Australia and looking for a role with purpose—this is your opportunity to combine meaningful legal work with an exceptional lifestyle.
Hawke's Bay offers:
* A relaxed coastal lifestyle with world-class wineries and food culture
* Affordable living compared to major Australian cities
* Warm climate and stunning outdoor environment
* A strong sense of community and work-life balance
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced litigation lawyer with excellent legal skills to be a safe pair of hands in our dynamic and agile legal team in Hastings, Hawke's Bay.
This is a dynamic and rewarding role where you'll:
* Provide practical legal advice to social workers and frontline staff
* Advocate for the best outcomes for children and their families
* Work collaboratively across legal and social service teams
* Help identify and manage legal risk within the region
* Mentor colleagues and contribute to training initiatives
* Lead a team and foster collegial spirit
This role offers a strong mix of court advocacy and advisory work, providing variety and real impact.
About You
We're keen to hear from lawyers in Australia who are open to relocating and making a difference.
You'll ideally bring:
* Admission (or eligibility for admission) as a Barrister & Solicitor in New Zealand
* At least 5 years' PQE
* Experience in family law, litigation, or criminal/youth justice (or a strong interest in these areas)
* A genuine passion for improving outcomes for vulnerable children
* Strong communication and relationship-building skills
* Cultural awareness, with a willingness to engage with Māori and Pacific communities
* Integrity, resilience, and a collaborative mindset
What's in It for You
* Salary: NZD $106,416 – $117,782 (based on experience) + 3.5% superannuation
* Annual salary progression based on tenure
* Relocation opportunity to one of New Zealand's most desirable regions
* Flexible working options
* A supportive, close-knit team environment
* Ongoing professional development and training
* The opportunity to do truly meaningful work that impacts lives
If you're an experienced lawyer in Australia looking to step into a role with purpose—while enjoying a better pace of life—this could be the move you've been waiting for.
Join us in Hawke's Bay and help shape better futures for tamariki and rangatahi across Aotearoa.
Apply online with your CV and Covering Letter. If you have any questions about role, please contact
Applications for this role close at midnight on 7th June 2026.
If you are interested in any of our vacancies, please ensure that you make yourself familiar with our code of conduct as it sets out our expectations for our kaimahiand requires you to present at work free from the influences of both drugs and alcohol.
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