Peer Support Specialist

• You must hold

the NZCHW L4 (or equiv) + Tues – Sat 3pm – 11.30pm

• Own lived mental health exp and 18+ months of wellness before applying
• You’ll enjoy

extra annual leave and 2 wellbeing days annually We’re looking for someone whose had their own mental health journey through to recovery to support others on their mental health journey

Summary You’ve experienced mental health challenges yourself and your lived experience is your strength. Having experienced mental health challenges yourself and maintained a period of wellness for at least 18 months before applying, you bring a unique ability to relate to others who may be going through similar experiences on their recovery journey.

In our 24/7 Peer Acute Alternative Service, you’ll draw on your own lived experience to build meaningful connections, offer compassion and non-judgemental support, and help tāngata whai ora feel understood, respected and hopeful about their recovery.

The benefits | Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou

• An extra week

of annual leave after 12 months

• Two wellbeing

days each year

• $250 per year on a HealthNow card
• Access to a

wide range of discounts through our employee app

• Specsavers

discounts for you and your whānau

• Southern Cross

medical insurance discounts The role | Mō tēnei tūranga mahi Tuesday – Saturday 3pm – 11.30pm, based in Christchurch.

You know from your own experience that mental health challenges can affect everyone differently. As a Peer Support Specialist in our 24/7 Peer Acute Alternative Service, you’ll use that understanding to connect with and support tāngata whai ora during challenging times.

Our service offers an alternative to hospital admission, providing a safe, supportive environment where people can focus on their wellbeing and recovery. You’ll join a team of 24 staff working across a range of shifts, bringing compassion, connection and a whatever it takes approach to your work.

As a Peer Support Specialist, you will:

• Make it personal – understand each person’s individual needs,

build genuine connections and provide culturally safe, compassionate support.

• Support everyday independence – help tāngata whai ora

with daily living skills, encouraging confidence, choice and independence.

• Be there when it matters – offer encouragement, reassurance and

practical support as people navigate challenges and work towards recovery.

• Work together as a team – keep accurate notes, complete handovers and

administrative tasks, and collaborate with colleagues to provide consistent, quality support. About You | Mōu You’ll draw on your own understanding of mental health and the tools that support your wellbeing to help others navigate their own recovery journey.

You’ll also:

• You’ll have

Intentional Peer Support training (IPS) or Peer Employment Training (PET) Certificate or be willing to study towards one.

• Hold the New Zealand Certificate Level 4 in Health and Wellbeing (or a recognised equivalent).
• Had a period of

wellness of 18 months before applying

• A full New

Zealand drivers licence

• You must hold a

current comprehensive first aid certificate or be willing to obtain one. About Pathways | Mō mātou At Pathways, we support people across Aotearoa to live full, meaningful lives in their communities. Mental health and overall wellbeing are at the heart of what we do, and strong whānau connections guide our work. Our ‘whatever it takes’ wairua is all about personalised, compassionate support.

Closing date: 6 November 2026. Please note, this advert may close early if a suitable candidate is found.

Position description: https://www.wisegroup.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/PW-Peer-Support-Specialist.pdf

Contact: Tina Sheveleva, Team Coach on tina.sheveleva@pathways.co.nz if you have any questions.

For further information, visit our website www.pathways.co.nz

Pathways is committed to healthy lifestyles and actively supports a smoke free environment. We encourage people with lived experience of mental illness & addictions to apply.