Parent Support Coordinator

Organisation: Tapawera Connect Location: Tapawera & surrounding rural areas Hours: 4 hours per week Contract: Fixed-term (12 months), with potential extension subject to funding Reports to: Operations Manager

About the role We’re looking for a warm, community-minded Parent & Family Support Coordinator to support parents, caregivers, and families in Tapawera and the surrounding rural area.

This is a non-clinical, community-led role focused on connection — bringing people together, creating welcoming spaces, and helping parents and caregivers navigate support, services, and local networks. The heart of the role is strengthening relationships and reducing isolation, while helping build a sustainable, locally supported parent and family network.

What you’ll be doing > Building strong, trusted relationships with parents, caregivers, and families > Connecting with local groups such as the school, ECE centres, playgroups, Rural Mums, homeschool networks, and community organisations > Facilitating a regular, informal drop-in space for parents and caregivers > Sharing information and helping people navigate available parenting, health, and wellbeing supports (without providing counselling or clinical services) > Coordinating workshops, speakers, or learning opportunities based on community interests > Supporting long-term sustainability by encouraging peer leadership and shared ownership > Working alongside Tapawera Connect staff and contributing to light admin and reporting

This role is ideal for someone who: > Has strong people skills and enjoys building genuine connections > Brings lived experience of parenting, caregiving, or close work with families > Has experience in community engagement, facilitation, or support roles (paid or voluntary) > Is comfortable working independently but values collaboration > Understands rural communities and the realities of small-town life > Is inclusive, respectful, and strengths-based in their approach > Is open to learning and committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles

What success looks like > Parents and caregivers feel more connected and supported > Drop-in sessions and activities are well attended and valued > Strong links exist between families, local groups, and support services > A pathway toward local ownership and sustainability is developing

Other requirements > Full NZ Driver Licence > Police vetting, reference checks, and work history checks required

Why work with us? Tapawera Connect is a community-led organisation passionate about supporting wellbeing, connection, and resilience in rural communities. This role offers flexibility, purpose, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference close to home.