Primary Mental Health Professionals – West Coast Opportunities

Full-time and part-time available

Live where others holiday. Work where you truly make a difference.

Ever thought about calling the West Coast home? From the rugged beauty of South Westland to the wild coastlines of Hokitika, the nīkau-lined shores of Punakaiki, and the close-knit communities of Westport and Karamea, this is more than a job. It’s a lifestyle.

About the Roles

We’re looking for Primary Mental Health Professionals to join a forward-thinking, integrated system of care transforming how mental health and addiction services are delivered across the Coast.

This is your chance to be part of a recovery-oriented, community-based model that:

• Places people, whānau, and lived experience at the centre

• Is culturally responsive and grounded in Te Ao Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi

• Connects primary care, Kaupapa Māori services, NGOs, and specialist services

• Uses a hub-and-spoke approach to reach even the most remote communities

Why These Roles Are Different

You’ll be part of a highly collaborative, integrated network, where:

• Care is shared across services, not siloed

• Early intervention and timely crisis response are prioritised

• Clinical, cultural, and psychosocial support come together around each person

• Innovation and co-design shape how services evolve

This model empowers professionals to focus on meaningful clinical work, while contributing to a system designed to improve equity, especially for Māori and rural communities.

What You’ll Be Part Of

• A recovery-focused approach championing autonomy, hope, and self-determination

• Strong partnerships with iwi and Kaupapa Māori providers

• A system actively addressing rural access and inequities

• A workforce committed to growing capability, connection, and impact across the region

About you:

• Registered health professional (e.g. nurse, social worker, occupational therapist, psychologist)

• Passion for equity, collaboration, and culturally responsive practice

• Ability to work across services and build strong relationships

Why the West Coast?

Because life is more than your job.

Here, your commute might include ocean views, rainforest, or mountain ranges. Your weekends could mean hiking, surfing, white baiting, or simply slowing down.

It’s a place where:

• Community matters

• Work-life balance is real

• Nature is right on your doorstep

Learn more about living here: https://westcoast.co.nz/live/cut-out-for-the-coast/

Make the Move

If you’re ready for roles where you can shape the future of primary mental health care, while living somewhere truly special, we’d love to hear from you.

Come for the job. Stay for the lifestyle.