Clinical Nurse Specialist, Mental Health - Tongariro Prison

About this role

Ngā kawenga | About the role

Are you prepared to embark on an invigorating role within a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team? As a Clinical Nurse Specialist, you'll have the extraordinary chance to deliver specialised Mental Health nursing services that will enhance the well-being of those entrusted to our care. From initial triage and assessment to implementing evidence-based treatments, you'll assume a pivotal role in amalgamating primary health and tertiary mental health services. Moreover, as an integral member of our Mental Health team, you'll immerse yourself in a supportive environment with opportunities for professional development, clinical supervision, and a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation-oriented healthcare within the prison setting.

In your role as a CNS at Tongariro Prison, you'll take the lead in supporting the professional growth of fellow mental health professionals within the Intervention and Support Practice Team. Together, you'll provide vital mental health services to those in our care who are most vulnerable. This opportunity is ideal for a clinical professional passionate about fostering culturally safe practices and partnerships. Our teams are committed to demonstrating expert clinical practice, with a strong emphasis on Humanising and Healing. We deeply value the human dignity and inherent mana of all individuals and their whānau under our care. Join us on this exhilarating journey and make a lasting impact.

Professional registration is required, applicants are asked to apply using the name that appears on their registration record with the relevant professional body. Please ensure your application details align with your registration to avoid delays in verification.

Download our job description from the job application page to find out more about the role.

He kōrero mōu | About you

We're seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates, preferably with at least 5 years of Mental Health nursing experience, who resonate strongly with our kaupapa and can effectively showcase their alignment through a written application, demonstrating how they meet our essential requirements.

As the successful candidate, you will hold the title of Registered Nurse with a current Nursing Council of NZ Annual Practising Certificate. Your role requires a foundation in strong cultural competence, encompassing an understanding of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application, along with cultural knowledge and experience in working with and for Māori, whānau, and iwi.

Your professional background should include specialist Mental Health nursing experience in primary/community, secondary, or tertiary settings. It is imperative that you can demonstrate relevant experience, especially in dealing with individuals facing acute and complex mental health and/or addiction issues.

You will need to exhibit a proven understanding of the professional, ethical, and legislative requirements associated with providing mental health service care and treatment within a prison context. While possessing a post-graduate qualification in Mental Health or working towards one is desirable, we also encourage applications from those in the process of obtaining this qualification.

Experience, qualifications, and registration in New Zealand are highly desirable. Preference will be given to candidates who have proven experience working within the New Zealand healthcare system, hold relevant New Zealand qualifications, and are currently registered with the appropriate regulatory bodies. This will ensure a smoother integration into our workforce and a deeper understanding of the local context and standards of care.

Ngā painga | The benefits

The salary range is $116,306 - $123,873. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

Ko wai mātou | About us

Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections) Pae Ora leads the delivery of patient-focused primary health and mental health care services to tangata within corrections facilities across Aotearoa.

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hōkai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

You can find out more about us here.

Tono ināianei | Apply now

Applications Close 11pm Monday, 16 November 2026.

To apply and view the position description, click the application link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency. Applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV/Resume and Cover Letter describing your motivation for joining our department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

If you want to find out more about a career with us visit our careers page or email vera.degroot@corrections.govt.nz.