At Women’s Refuge our mission is to liberate women, children, family and whanau from family violence by providing quality services and social commentary.
The National Collective of Independent Womens Refuges is the umbrella organisation of 40 independent Womens Refuges across New Zealand. Each refuge has specific support needs and application requirements, to learn more about positions available please see current vacancies.
A Day in the Life of a
Women’s Refuge Advocate
Please note you must be living in New Zealand – and qualify to work in New Zealand – to apply for a position at Women’s Refuge.
The organisation and affiliates are supported by a valued team comprised of both paid and volunteer positions.
We believe in our people; we believe in our values:
- We provide our team with training and on-going support to assist in learning about our organisation and the work that we do.
- We are proud to have a strong commitment to both the principles of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi Treaty of Waitangi and parallel development.
- We are also fully committed to the importance of Equal Employment Opportunities.
- Whakapapa: Relationships built on kinship and reciprocity.
- Tikanga: Practicing with integrity.
- Wairua: Honoring diversity.
- Tapu: Promoting self-understanding and development.
- Mauri: Maintenance of the individual identity and values within a collective.
- Mana: Inspirational leadership.
Why Women's Refuge?
Current Vacancies
National Office (NCIWR)
PROGRAMME & SERVICE SUPPORT
Women’s Refuge, National Collective of Independent Women’s Refuge Incorporated (Women’s Refuge NZ) is New Zealand’s only national provider working to protect women and children from domestic violence. Our national office provides a wide range of advocacy, advisory, training, fundraising and support services to member refuges, Government, agencies and our many business partners.
Our vision is for all women and children in New Zealand/Aotearoa to live free from family violence.
Do you have at least two or more years strong administration experience, enjoy working in a team and pride yourself on delivering great customer service? This could be an opportunity for you!
This position sits into a small existing team and while it’s a busy role delivering critical support functions, the team enjoy good team spirit, humour and camaraderie. Working together as a team, they pride themselves on achieving their shared goals. General admin skills, strong relationship management and good interpersonal skills are key attributes we are looking for in a new team member.
What is required in this role?
- To work responsibly alongside team mates to provide critical support functions within a niche service provision space.
- High level efficiency to ensure we have things covered and the boxes are always ticked.
- A minimum of two years administration experience and a keen eye for detail
What will you be doing?
- Data input with high attention to detail
- Coordinating services
- Managing in box with team members
- Picking up work overflow within the team
- Accurate data capture
What is needed?
- Previous general administration experience is an advantage
- Can-do attitude and a strong team player
- Strong communication & relationship management skills
- Excellent time management and organisational skills
- Competency across Microsoft Office suite
- Responsive and resourceful
- Diligent and Savvy
This role requires professional conduct, teamwork and supports outcomes for both Māori and Tauiwi.
We have provided a snapshot view of the role. Please read through the full job description on our website at https://womensrefuge.org.nz/about-us/work-for-us
Or request one directly from Cheryl Gibbs : cheryl@refuge.org.nz
- Only applicants who are legally entitled to work in New Zealand will be considered for this position.
- The successful applicant will be required to undergo reference checks and security clearance.
To apply: Send a completed Application form, CV and your personal cover letter to cheryl@refuge.org.nz
Applications for this role close at 12 noon on 10 November 2026.
Application form
Job Description
Auckland
Hestia Rodney Women’s Refuge
PRACTICE LEAD, 1 – FTE
About the role
Join Hestia Rodney Women’s Refuge’ as a full-time Practice Lead based in Orewa. In this pivotal role, you’ll be responsible for leading and supporting a dedicated team in providing essential services to women and children experiencing or exposed to family violence.
What you’ll be doing
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the client facing team, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery
- Provide guidance, coaching and mentorship to team members to foster their professional growth
- Collaborate with stakeholders and community partners to identify and address the evolving needs of the local community
- Contribute to the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that align with the organisation’s mission and values
- Ensure compliance with relevant policies, procedures and regulatory requirements
- Monitor and report on team performance, identifying areas for improvement to management
- Foster a positive, inclusive and supportive team culture
What we’re looking for
- Significant experience in a community social service , with a track record of leading a practice team
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders
- In-depth knowledge of community services and development principles, with the ability to think strategically and identify innovative solutions
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise and multitask effectively
- Demonstrated commitment to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion
- Registered social worker is preferred.
What we offer
- Competitive remuneration and benefits package
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
- Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance
- Collaborative and supportive team environment
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the local community
About us
Hestia Rodney Women’s Refuge’ is a leading community organisation dedicated to supporting and empowering vulnerable individuals and families in the northern Auckland region. With a strong focus on holistic, culturally responsive service delivery, we work tirelessly to address the diverse needs of our community and create positive, sustainable change.
If you’re passionate about community services and development, and eager to make a difference, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please email fiona@hestia.org.nz for a position description only. Applications close 20th November 2026.
Need help now?
Crisisline: 0800 REFUGE or 0800 733 843
Phone us toll free from anywhere in New Zealand for information, advice and support about domestic violence as well as help in a crisis. We’re here to help you on this phone number 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Follow the simple steps to be put through to your local refuge on your touchtone or mobile phone. You will be automatically redirected to a female advocate in your region.
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