Allied Health Assistant (0.5 FTE Fixed Term) Nelson


Allied Health Assistant – Occupational Therapy (Mental Health Inpatient Services),
Nelson Hospital, Fixed Term Part-time

  • Fixed term part time 0.5FTE (40 hours a fortnight) 
  • Join a dedicated and supportive team delivering high-quality care to the Nelson Marlborough community
  • Keen to work in a collaborative and supportive environment that encourages professional development and offers flexibility to pursue areas of special interest.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

The Allied Health Assistant plays a vital role in supporting Occupational Therapy (OT) services within the inpatient mental health setting. Working under the direction of Occupational Therapists, you will assist patients to engage in meaningful activities that promote recovery, independence, wellbeing, and participation in everyday life.

This role is integral to enabling Occupational Therapists to focus on clinical priorities, including comprehensive assessments, care planning, complex interventions, and risk management, ensuring patients receive patient-centred care throughout their recovery journey.
This is a fixed term role for up to 6 months, working 40 hours per fortnight (0.5 FTE). The successful candidate will work Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The specific hours of work will be discussed and can be agreed to meet service needs and provide flexibility where possible.

About the Team/Service/ Location

The Inpatient Mental Health Service provides assessment, treatment, and support for adults experiencing acute mental health challenges. Our service is committed to delivering person-centred, recovery-focused care that supports individuals and their whānau throughout their mental health journey.

Occupational Therapy is an integral part of the multidisciplinary team, working alongside nursing, medical, psychology, social work, and allied health professionals. The Occupational Therapy team supports people to develop skills, routines, confidence, and meaningful participation in activities that contribute to recovery and improved quality of life.

You will join a supportive and experienced Occupational Therapy team that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. We are passionate about delivering high-quality care and creating opportunities for people to achieve their recovery goals.

To uncover a better work-life balance in Nelson CLICK HERE or HERE 

About you 

Are you passionate about supporting people on their recovery journey and making a positive difference within the inpatient mental health setting? If so, we invite you to join our dedicated team in beautiful Nelson and take your career to the next level.

To be successful in this role, you will have/be:

  • A relevant qualification or experience in health, disability, mental health, community support, or allied health assistance.
  • An understanding of, or interest in, mental health and recovery-focused practice.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with ability to build a rapport with patients from diverse backgrounds.
  • A commitment to patient safety, confidentiality, and culturally responsive practice.
  • A practical and cooperative team player who is supportive of your colleagues, and works in flexible, positive manner.

The successful candidate must be eligible to work in New Zealand or hold a valid NZ visa at the time of applying.

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal. Application via email is not considered. 

If you have any questions about the role, please contact Tamarin Macleod – CNM on Tamarin.Macleod@nmdhb.govt.nz 

For any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Sonja Rae (Recruitment) sonja.rae@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Job ref: R1N26-202

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.

Apply now

Fixed Term/Contract/Part Time

Job no: R1N26-202

Location: Nelson Hospital

Closing Date: Sunday, 2 August 2026