Psychologist - Christchurch Women's Stu

• Work in a supportive environment where shared learning and professional growth are valued.
• Access career-long supervision, training, and structured advancement opportunities.
• Contribute to evidence-based practice in a service where psychology informs rehabilitation and organisational approaches.

Nga kawenga | About the role

Christchurch Women's Prison (CWP) has established a dedicated on-site psychological service, designed to align with existing initiatives such as Hokai Rangi and the women's strategy E rere ana ki te pae hou. In addition, in 2024, CWP opened the first Therapeutic Community (TC)/Special Treatment Unit for women in prison completing offence specific programmes. Within the TC, which is led by the psychology team, women complete their identified treatment and are supported by wrap around supports and the wider therapeutic community.

Psychologists work as part of the team and provide individual assessment and treatment, as well as delivering rehabilitation programmes based on a He Awa Whiria (braided river) approach-integrating Te Ao Maori and Matauranga Maori alongside Western psychological frameworks. The team is based within the therapeutic community and also works across different areas within the prison and the wider women's estate, offering psychological expertise, advice, and intervention as needed.

This is an opportunity to be part of a multi-disciplinary team that includes a Kaupapa Maori Practitioner and a Reintegration Coordinator. The service is built on a strong foundation of bicultural practice, and we welcome psychologists who are enthusiastic about contributing to this kaupapa. An existing understanding of Te Ao Maori and tikanga is beneficial, but just as important is a genuine willingness to engage and develop in this space.

He korero mou | About you

You are a registered psychologist with a strong commitment to supporting women's rehabilitation and wellbeing. You bring clinical expertise alongside the ability to engage meaningfully with women from diverse backgrounds, recognising the complex factors that shape their experiences.

You are adaptable and solutions-focused, with the ability to navigate challenges and deliver high-quality psychological support. Your approach is collaborative, and you thrive in a multidisciplinary environment where teamwork and shared learning are valued. A commitment to culturally responsive practice is essential, and you demonstrate an understanding of Te Ao Maori and tikanga Maori, or a willingness to grow in this space.

You are motivated by opportunities for professional development and eager to contribute to initiatives that enhance outcomes for women in the justice system. Whether you are early in your career or looking for your next challenge, this role offers a chance to apply your skills in a setting where your work will make a lasting impact.

Utu a-tau | Salary

The salary range for the role is $83,286 - $133,370 per annum. Psychologists have the ability to work towards additional allowances and allocated professional development funding. We may also offer flexible and/or part-time options for working hours. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

Ko wai matou | About us

Ara Poutama Aotearoa is a name that has been gifted to us and is our commitment to improving the oranga and safety of the people, whanau, and that of the communities we serve across the motu.

As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship) and whanau (relationships) to shape how we work and deliver the outcomes in our strategy - Hokai Rangi.

It is an exciting time to join us, and we continue to seek out talented individuals who are committed to an inclusive, vibrant workplace. We recognise and celebrate the uniqueness of individuals, and that of the collective talent in our whanau.

Tono inaianei | Apply Now

If you have any questions, please contact: Tom.Nicholas@corrections.govt.nz

To view the job description, click 'apply' and you will be taken through to our careers site, where you can view this.

To apply, please submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience. Alignment to our kaupapa is critical to our success - we ask that you provide examples which reflect and demonstrate our organisation values.

Applications close on: Sunday 2nd March.

All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency. Applications received via email will not be considered.

If you want to find out more about a career with us, visit careers.corrections.govt.nz or email our team at careers@corrections.govt.nz.