Pact is a major provider of community, vocational and residential based intellectual disability, mental health and addictions services across Southland, Otago, West Coast, Upper South Island and the Lower North Island. Our team of passionate staff journey alongside individuals to support them in setting and achieving their goals.
We are looking for someone with a passion for supporting people with high and complex needs to lead fulfilling lives in the community.
Our services provide a safe and positive environment where our clients are assisted to achieve maximum independence.
Job Description
We are seeking a passionate and grounded Peer Support Worker with lived experience of addiction and recovery—ideally someone who has journeyed through residential rehabilitation and understands the real-world challenges faced by whaiora.
The Role
Pact is looking for an enthusiastic and energetic person to work alongside those with alcohol and drug addictions, who experience challenges with their mental health.
This role is about more than just support—it's about advocacy, connection, and transformation. You’ll bring empathy, insight, and authenticity to your interactions, helping uplift whaiora through meaningful engagement and shared experience. Your ability to self-motivate and initiate connection will be key in strengthening the presence and impact of peer support within our residential space.
Key responsibilities include:
Support those who have challenging behaviours
Assistance with an educational environment
Assist in gaining social, health and cultural reconnection
Ensure strict compliance with medication and consider client’s needs
Excellent communication and networking skills
Ensure client processes are accurately documented
Adding to the team's culture by showing positivity and patience
Celebrating staff and clients' accomplishments
Ability to build and sustain working relationships with clients, staff and external agencies
Hours of work at present are: 32 hours / fortnight
As we operate 24/7, hours of work will include day, evening, weekend, awake night and sleepover shifts.
Desired Skills and Experience
We’re looking for someone who:
Has personal experience with addiction and recovery, preferably including residential rehab
Can offer genuine support and advocacy from a place of lived understanding
Is proactive in building relationships and fostering trust with whaiora
Is passionate about the power of peer support and its potential to change lives
Maintains healthy boundaries and demonstrates a balanced, reflective approach
A full driver's licence and computer skills are essential.
If shortlisted, you must be available for an interview in Wellington
A level 4 or other relevant qualification in mental health is also desirable but not essential. Otherwise, there is an expectation that you will be willing to start working towards obtaining a level 4 mental health qualification after your first year of employment.
If you believe in the value of walking alongside others in their recovery journey and want to be part of a team that honours lived experience, we’d love to hear from you.
Please do not apply unless you already have the right to work in New Zealand. We are unable to help with visa sponsorship.
