Behaviour Specialist - Explore Hāpainga Ora | Listed Date: 2026-03-13

Proceed to Application

Make a real difference for disabled people and their whānau across Aotearoa.

Explore Hāpainga Ora is strengthening the way we deliver high-quality services through a tiered of model of care.

We are expanding our model to include a wider range of interventions such as group-based delivery and individual behaviour support to enhance quality of life for the people we support, their families, whānau, and their wider support network.  

We welcome applications from former Explore and NZHG staff. If you’ve worked with us before and are considering coming back, talk to us about our “welcome back” pathway and flexible role options.

Why you’ll love working with us

  • Supportive, respectful team culture

  • Structured induction, training, and ongoing professional development

  • Regular supervision + pathways into senior and leadership roles

  • Flexible working arrangements and genuine work–life balance

  • Competitive salary, KiwiSaver, phone, laptop

  • EAP support for you and your whānau

  • Roles available across Aotearoa

Who we are | Ko wai mātou

Explore Hāpainga Ora is the national provider of specialist behaviour support within New Zealand Health Group.
We work alongside disabled people of all ages, their whānau, and support networks to build capability, strengthen quality of life, and deliver services in a culturally responsive way.

About the role | He kōrero mō te tūranga

As a Behaviour Specialist, you will:

  • Complete assessments and develop behaviour support plans

  • Coach and upskill whānau, support staff, and providers

  • Deliver education and group-based interventions

  • Support people with complex needs using evidence-based, person-centred practice

  • Maintain accurate records and contribute to service improvement

This role is dynamic and fast-paced, requiring confidence, strong time management, and the ability to work effectively in complex situations. We welcome applications from disabled or neurodivergent people and whānau with lived experience.

What you will bring | Ngā tohungatanga

Essential:

  • Experience in disability, assessment, or behaviour support

  • Knowledge of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)

  • Understanding of autism and factors that influence behaviour

  • Experience completing functional behaviour assessments and writing support plans

  • Strong relationship-building, coaching, and communication skills

  • Ability to work collaboratively in a transdisciplinary team

  • Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and bicultural practice

  • Full NZ driver’s licence

  • Confidence using Microsoft Office and client management systems

  • APC if required for your profession

Desired:

  • Flexibility to travel

  • Group facilitation experience

Why Explore | He aha ai mātou?

  • Comprehensive training and ongoing support

  • Flexible working options

  • Safe, collaborative environment where learning is encouraged

  • Clear development pathways and opportunities to progress

How to apply | Me pēhea ki te tono

Please apply via our website on the link below with your CV and a cover letter. Only applications submitted through the website will be considered.

https://careers.nzhealthgroup.com/?unlistedjob=0hJ0Qky&tracker=651541231

Applications close | Te katinga o tenei whai turanga: 13 March 2026

Only suitable candidates will be contacted for interview and applications will be reviewed as they are received, therefore resulting in the role closing early if the right applicant is found.

Applicants for this position must be a NZ Resident/Citizen or have a valid NZ work permit.