Diversional Therapist - Memory Care

Whangārei, Northland Region, nz on site Until 10/6/2026 3+ years exp First posted August 7, 2026 Last posted August 7, 2026
Job description

You can help bring our villages to life!  

At Summerset, from the moment we start developing a village, to when our residents call it home, it’s the passion and dedication of our people that brings our villages to life. We are one team united by being part of something bigger – to bring the best of life to our residents.

As a Diversional Therapist at our Whangarei village, you’ll be empowered  to create a recreational programme for seniors living in a care supportive environment. You will be leading a culture of purposeful engagement which promotes dignity and independence through the therapeutic recreation process. Through personalised recreation plans and engaging activities, you’ll help residents maintain independence, dignity, and connection with others.

Typical duties include:

  • Planning and running individual and group activities that are purposeful and enjoyable
  • Supporting residents to participate in the social life of the Care Centre and wider village
  • Collaborating with other team members to extend activities across the village as appropriate
  • Monitoring and reporting resident progress and maintaining accurate activity records
  • Managing monthly activity programme budgets with approval from the Village Manager

This is a permanent full-time role, working a roster of Monday to Friday (40-hours per week - start and finish times to be negotiated).

You’ll be creative, compassionate, and highly organised – with a genuine interest in enhancing the lives of older people through social connection and therapeutic engagement.

You’ll bring with you:

  • National Certificate in Diversional Therapy (Level 4) – or at least 3 years of relevant work experience
  • Experience working within dementia care
  • Excellent planning and time management skills, with a proactive mindset
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • First Aid Certificate (or willingness to complete a two-day course)
  • A full, clean driver’s licence & ability to drive a Mobility Van.
  • Confidence using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

At Summerset, we believe diversity strengthens our team and enriches the care we provide. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and walks of life.

Summerset's known for its excellent benefits and strong sense of values around care, teamwork and drive for excellence. With some of the best benefits in the sector, some of these include:

  • Weekend additional penal hourly rates apply 
  • Time and a half for all work or shifts over 8 hours in a day
  • Training opportunities - we will support you to achieve your National Certificate in Diversional Therapy (Level 4) and first aid certificate
  • Southern Cross Health Essentials Insurance

Next Steps: Applications for this role will close on Friday 21st August. This role may close early due to an increased number of applications - apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment! 

About this role

Summary

Create recreational programs for seniors, promote social connection, and support independence.

Job title

Diversional Therapist - Memory Care

Experience level

relevant work experience or Level 4 certificate

Minimum experience

3+ years exp

Industry

healthcare

Location requirements

Whangārei, Northland, NZ; on-site role

Salary

Not specified

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

diversional therapydementia carefirst aidMicrosoft Office

Preferred skills

creativityorganisational skillscommunication

Specializations

diversional therapydementia carerecreationtherapeutic engagement
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Whangārei, New Zealand

On-site City