Job Description
Full job description
Mo te Tari o te Kaitiaki Mana Tangata - About the Ombudsman
The Chief Ombudsman works with his staff to help New Zealanders in their dealings with government agencies. The focus is on handling complaints against government agencies, undertaking investigations and inspections, and encouraging good administration. The Chief Ombudsman is independent and impartial, with the goal of fairness for all.
He wa tino pai ki te hono mai ki to matou tari - It's a great time to join our office
Public confidence in government institutions is under pressure. The Office of the Ombudsman in a constitutionally independent role critical to the success of good administration. Demand for our services is growing and New Zealanders need us to show up in new ways and be more accessible and impactful.
We have just completed a significant organisational transformation, and we are evolving the organisation to have greater impact. This is a new way of working where kaimahi are genuinely empowered, collaboration is real, leadership is visible and values-driven, and where the people doing the work can see their input shaping the direction of the organisation.
Mo to matou tira - About the team
The OPCAT (Optional Protocol to the Conventions Against Torture) team is responsible for monitoring the conditions and treatment of people detained in prisons, court cells, immigration facilities, and health and disability facilities such as intellectual disability and mental health units and secure privately run aged care facilities.
Mo te turanga - About the role
The role of Inspector OPCAT is to assist the Chief Ombudsman to monitor, inspect and report on places of detention, including health and disability places of detention, prisons, immigration detention centres, managed isolation and quarantine facilities, and secure aged care facilities.
You'll carry out inspections, gather evidence and contribute to reports and recommendations. You'll be travelling across New Zealand with other staff on a regular basis.
He korero mou - About you
To be successful in this role you will have:
A relevant tertiary qualification and experience in a legal, medical, social work, cultural, defence, community policing or education field.
Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to build rapport and engagement quickly with a diverse range of people.
An understanding of relevant national and international law, standards and best practice.
An understanding of and ability to recognise and understand key Maori, disability, and other cultural and human rights concepts.
Experience in visiting or working in, or an understanding of places of detention, such as health and disability units, aged care facilities or prison facilities.
Experience in undertaking evidence based research and analysis, including conducting interviews and site visits to obtain key information.
Te painga o te mahi tahi me matou - Our benefits, what we offer
Becoming part of an exceptional team in a dynamic organisation, where the work is challenging and rewarding. Your development and growth will be nurtured, and your work recognised and valued.
Genuine career progression opportunities and professional development through training and mentoring by senior members of your team
Flexible working options
Competitive remuneration
Three extra Annual Leave days after 12 months of employment
Onsite gym (Auckland and Wellington) and personal trainer (Wellington)
Three paid office holidays between Christmas and New Year
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Me pehea te tono - How to apply
To apply, click on the `Apply Now' button where you will need to register through our online career centre, complete our application form and upload your CV and cover letter. For further information about this vacancy please email recruitment@ombudsman.parliament.nz.
All applicants will have a legal entitlement to work in New Zealand. Appointees will be subject to a criminal convictions check and may be required to achieve and maintain a NZ Government (NZSIS) security clearance.
As the Ombudsman's role is to provide "fairness for all" New Zealanders, it is important that our staff represent New Zealanders from all walks of life. We value your individuality and how you can contribute to our team. We encourage applicants from all walks of life.
Depending on skills and experience the salary is expected to be between $95,810 to $125,750 with $119,762 being the mid-point.
This role is based in either Auckland or Wellington. Please note we are unable to consider 100% remote working for this role.
Applications close 5pm, 10 May 2026
