Diversional Therapist / Activities Coordinator

Sound Care Group is looking for enthusiastic, resident-focused Diversional Therapists / Activities Coordinators to bring energy, creativity and meaningful connection into everyday life for our residents. If you love designing engaging programmes and helping older people rediscover purpose, joy and belonging, we’d love to hear from you.

Location

Te Whare Manaaki o Tamahere

54 Clearway Rise, Rukuhia 3282

Role details

• Role type: Permanent, full-time
• Hours: Minimum 30 hours/week (typically 30-40); usual shifts Mon-Fri (weekend work may be required from time to time)

About the role - Diversional Therapist (DT)

As the Diversional Therapist, you will enhance residents’ quality of life through person-centred diversional therapy and therapeutic programmes that support physical, emotional, social, cultural and spiritual wellbeing. You’ll promote independence, dignity and connection, while recognising and respecting each resident’s preferences, abilities and cultural identity.

Key responsibilities - Diversional Therapist (DT)

• Designing, implementing and evaluating individual and group activity programmes.
• Conducting resident assessments and gathering information about their life history, interests, preferences, abilities and goals.
• Developing and maintaining individualised activity care plans in collaboration with residents, families/whānau and the wider care team.
• Reviewing and updating care plans at least six-monthly or when residents' needs change.
• Working closely with Activity Coordinators and Activity Assistants to plan and deliver activities.
• Reviewing activity care plans completed by Activity Coordinators, where applicable.
• Incorporating principles of Te Whare Tapa Whā and other inclusive wellbeing approaches into activity programmes.
• Creating opportunities for social connection, cognitive stimulation, creativity, mobility and emotional wellbeing.
• Supporting resident outings and accompanying residents to medical appointments, shopping trips and community activities as required.
• Building relationships with community organisations and developing opportunities for residents to remain connected with the wider community.
• Working collaboratively with RNs, care staff, allied health professionals, Activity Coordinators, Activity Assistants and whānau.
• Providing guidance or in-service sessions to staff about diversional therapy and activity programmes.
• Maintaining accurate care plans, progress notes, activity records and evaluations.
• Identifying and escalating significant changes or concerns regarding residents' wellbeing.
• Supporting residents' privacy, dignity, choice, independence and safety.
• Participating in quality improvement, performance reviews and ongoing professional development.

We are seeking someone who has:

• NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Diversional Therapy) Level 4 or an equivalent qualification.
• At least 2 years' relevant experience, preferably in aged care or a residential care environment.
• Previous experience leading and coordinating activities for older people.
• Experience working with residents with varying physical, cognitive and emotional needs.
• A genuine passion for working with older people and improving their quality of life.
• Creativity and enthusiasm, with the ability to develop activities that residents genuinely enjoy.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with residents, families/whānau and staff.
• Good organisational skills, initiative and the ability to adapt programmes based on residents' needs and feedback.
• Cultural awareness and a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Current First Aid Certificate.
• Skills or experience in areas such as music, art, crafts, exercise, gardening, cooking or other therapeutic activities would be an advantage.
• A full NZ driver's licence and confidence driving residents would be an advantage.

About the role - Activities Coordinator (AC)

As the Activities Coordinator, you will support the day-to-day delivery of the activities programme by helping residents take part in engaging, enjoyable experiences that enhance quality of life in a holistic way. You’ll put residents’ independence and privacy first, identify their needs, and ensure dignity and safety are always prioritised.

Key responsibilities - Activities Coordinator (AC)

• Work closely with the DRT to plan, deliver and review individual and group activities, following the activities calendar
• Support the development and six-monthly review of individual activity care plans (with resident/whānau input)
• Maintain updated documentation and record relevant information in resident notes/care plans
• Support outings and events, following safety requirements and incident reporting processes
• Share ideas and feedback to strengthen activities and resident participation

We are seeking someone who has:

• At least 6 months’ relevant experience in activities/lifestyle coordination, aged care, disability support, health or wellbeing

• Certificate/Diploma in Diversional Therapy, Recreation Therapy, or Health & Wellbeing study (including working towards a relevant qualification)

• Ability to confidently deliver the activities calendar and support resident participation

• Strong communication skills and a friendly, motivating manner

• Good organisation and prioritising skills

• Full driver licence (advantageous but not required)

• Good physical fitness and comfort supporting resident outings

Key responsibilities - shared (DT/AC)

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation, including activity participation records, progress notes, observations, care plans and evaluations.
• For a registered Diversional Therapist, activity care plans do not require Registered Nurse sign-off unless required by organisational policy or specific clinical circumstances.
• Follow all health and safety procedures when conducting activities and outings, including carrying the required first aid kit, communication device and identification.
• Support and uphold residents’ privacy, dignity, choice, independence and safety at all times.
• Participate in annual performance appraisals, training and professional development activities.
• Work collaboratively with the nursing and care teams, DT/AC colleagues, residents, families/whānau and other relevant professionals.
• Champion and demonstrate Sound Care Group’s CARE values in all interactions and responsibilities.

About the Group:

Sound Care Group owns and operates six aged care homes across New Zealand, committed to delivering holistic nursing care to our residents and clients. Our team is driven by a deep passion for caring, guided by the following values:

🔹 Competence – Delivering skilled, high-quality care.

🔹 Authenticity – Being genuine and trustworthy in all we do.

🔹 Respect – Honouring dignity and individuality.

🔹 Empathy – Providing compassionate and personalized support.

The Group is in an exciting phase of growth and is seeking top-notch professionals to join our competent and caring team. If you share our values and want to be part of a high-performing, compassionate environment, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply now by submitting your CV and a short cover letter showcasing your background, skills, experience and what qualifications you have.