Mental Health Addictions Clinician (AOD SBIRT)

Mental Health Addictions Clinician (AOD SBIRT)

Rotorua Hospital Emergency Department

Permanent, Fulltime (40 hours per week)

Rostered shifts Monday to Sunday

We are seeking two qualified and registered Addictions Health Professionals to cover rostered shifts in the Rotorua Emergency Department (ED), with in-reach to Taupo ED as required. Work at the frontline of a new, impactful initiative addressing methamphetamine harm and wider alcohol and other drug (AOD) needs in our community. This is a unique opportunity to be part of an innovative Emergency Department–based model delivering real change through early intervention, harm reduction, and strong community connections.

Work with a supportive, forward-thinking team of health professionals and help shape how Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) is embedded across the Lakes District while contributing to improved outcomes for tangata whaiora and whānau.

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

As an Addictions Clinician working in our Emergency Department SBIRT programme, you will provide specialist alcohol and other drug assessment, brief intervention, and referral to treatment for patients presenting to ED. Working alongside ED clinicians, you will respond to referrals generated through triage screening and deliver timely, person-centred interventions that focus on harm reduction—particularly for methamphetamine use.

Your day will involve engaging with patients in ED and across inpatient wards, delivering motivational, culturally safe conversations, and supporting individuals to understand and reduce their substance-related harm. You will also coordinate referrals to community-based services, including kaupapa Māori providers and NGO partners such as Manaaki Ora, ensuring continuity of care beyond the hospital setting. This role includes opportunities for follow-up in community, home, or outpatient settings, and actively contributes to building effective pathways and improving access to support.

About the Team/Service/ Location

The small duo of Addictions Clinicians will work collaboratively with Emergency Department staff, Mental Health & Addictions services, and community providers to deliver an integrated SBIRT model of care focused on early intervention and equitable outcomes.

Health New Zealand |Te Whatu Ora Lakes provides healthcare from its two modern and progressive general hospitals in Rotorua and Taupo, New Zealand. The Lakes district is becoming the lifestyle destination of choice and is well known for its many outdoor recreational activities, family friendly beaches, and a growing multi-cultural community. Working at Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora Lakes provides a great opportunity to balance an amazing lifestyle with a rewarding professional experience.

As well as a supportive, inclusive and diverse work environment, Health New Zealand |Te Whatu Ora Lakes offer competitive salary, free staff parking, free flu vaccination, discounts (with local businesses), and access to Employee Assistance Program.

For more information on living and working in Rotorua and Taupo click here

About you

As an experienced Addictions Clinician, you will bring a strong commitment to harm reduction, equity, and culturally responsive care, along with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced ED environment.

• Registered health professional (e.g. Nurse, Social Worker, Occupational Therapist, Psychologist, DAPAANZ practitioner or NZAC Counsellor) with a current Annual Practising Certificate
• Knowledge of AOD treatment pathways and community resources, including kaupapa Māori service.
• Experience working in mental health and/or addictions, including brief interventions and risk assessment
• Demonstrated ability to engage tangata whaiora and whānau using a non-judgemental, culturally safe approach
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams and across services

Click here for Position Description

Click here for Collective Agreement (if applicable)

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 before end of posting date. If you have any questions about the role, please contact vacancy@lakesdhb.govt.nz. 

The selection process starts from the date of advertising. Due to the fast-paced nature of our roles, the vacancy close date may be subject to change.