Corrections Officer - Christchurch Women's Prison

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Join us at Christchurch Women's Prison in 2024

Kōtahi anō te kaupapa, ko te oranga o te iwi | There is only one purpose to our work: the wellness and wellbeing of people.

Ko wai mātou | Who we are: Ara Poutama Aotearoa is more than just a name; it's a responsibility to help those in our care and management reach their potential while ensuring the well-being and safety of our people, whānau, and communities. We're passionate about reducing re-offending and fostering community safety.

Christchurch Women's Prison: Christchurch Women's Prison (CWP) is one of three women's prisons within the network in New Zealand. At CWP, we've been working hard to better serve the unique needs of women. Our Women's Strategy, Wāhine: E Rere Ana Ki te Pae Hou, sets the stage for a gender-specific, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach. Additionally, CWP plays a pivotal role in our Māori pathways program, Te Mana Wahine, providing a comprehensive kaupapa Māori experience. Join us as we embark on a journey that positively impacts the women on site and also our dedicated staff.

Utu ā-Tau | Salary and Benefits:

• Starting Out: Begin your journey with a starting salary of $65,019, which increases as you achieve national qualifications (Level 3 at $69,697, and Level 4 at $75,213). There is also a $4000 annual shift allowance paid in addition to your salary. 
• Career Progression: Opportunities include career paths leading to Senior Corrections Officer, Principal Corrections Officer, and Tier 5 Manager positions.
• Collective Agreement: Our collective agreement ensures fair compensation including a shift allowance.
• A culturally significant role: Immerse yourself in a Te Ao Māori worldview and a Kaupapa Māori approach to your work.
• Meaningful Work: Join a dedicated team where every day you make a tangible difference in our community.
• Community & Belonging: Engage in numerous events and support networks that offer a strong sense of belonging.
• Professional Growth: Attain NZQA qualifications at Levels 3 and 4 as an integral part of your role.
• Uniform Provided: You'll receive a full uniform for the job.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

As part of your training, you'll acquire the skills and knowledge to excel within a custodial environment. By collaborating positively with your team, you'll have the chance to influence positive change in the lives of women and their whānau. Your role involves assisting and empowering the women we serve to make better choices, take timely actions, and support their individual journeys toward offence-free lives.

He Āpiha Whare Herehere - Corrections Officers will:

• ĀRAHI: Supervise daily routines.
• MANAAKI: Respond to questions and help resolve problems, supporting women in their rehabilitation and reintegration.
• WHAKAKIPAKIPA: Motivate and inspire women to make positive changes.
• HĀPAI: Monitor and manage health, safety, and wellbeing.
• MAHITAHI: Work closely with whānau and other key stakeholders.
• MAHI: Be ready to work 12-hour rostered shifts across a 24/7 pattern, including weekends and public holidays.

Ngā Korero Mōu | About you

We're looking for individuals who:

• Can build meaningful relationships, are effective communicators and empathetic listeners.
• Are motivated to create a positive impact in their community.
• Are inspired by the opportunity to change someone's life.
• Value integrity and role-model this every day
• Have experience within a Kaupapa Māori environment (or the openness to learn)

In addition to your unique skills and perspective, you should:

• Hold a current and full New Zealand driver's license.
• Be legally eligible to work full-time in New Zealand (work visa with a minimum remaining period of 12 months).

We offer fully paid training, starting with a one-week induction at CWP, followed by 5 weeks of training at our National Training Centre in Wellington, and then 4 weeks back at CWP before graduating. Your learning journey will continue with professional practice and development support, along with a clear pathway to career progression.

Things to know

Pre-employment checks are part of our process and include a drug test, full disclosure criminal conviction check (Clean Slate Act does not apply), a medical assessment, a physical fitness assessment, and reference checks.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

To apply, please submit your application online describing your motivation for this mahi and outlining your relevant skills, experience and personal qualities.

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

If your application is progressed you will attend an Assessment Centre. On the day you will meet Corrections staff, learn more about the role and complete a group exercise, role play, interview and written assessment.  Please let us know if there is anything else we can do to support you.

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.