Clinical Nurse Specialist - Spec & Violence Reduction

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is dedicated to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

This senior nursing position offers a unique opportunity to lead violence prevention and workforce safety across the Mental Health and Addictions Service.

Based in Tauranga Hospital, you will take a central role in the design and implementation of the national Safe Practice Effective Communication (SPEC) programme and related violence reduction strategies.

As a Clinical Nurse Specialist, you will provide master-level training to SPEC trainers, maintain and support a pool of trainers, and ensure safe and effective delivery across diverse clinical settings.

Alongside training and service leadership, you will engage directly with clinical teams, supporting best practice in the management of complex cases, and guiding staff in applying SPEC techniques in high-stakes situations.

This is a role that combines education, leadership, clinical excellence, and strategy, with the chance to make a measurable difference in workforce safety and patient outcomes.

About the Team / Service / Location

The Mental Health & Addictions Service is a team committed to delivering safe, equitable, and high-quality care to communities across the Bay of Plenty.

Tauranga Hospital is a vibrant secondary hospital set in a thriving coastal community, offering both professional growth and an enviable lifestyle.

This role will also see you working closely with local and national networks, contributing to policy, programme development, and service innovation in violence reduction.

Click here to learn more about the Bay of Plenty

About you

You are a skilled senior nurse who combines advanced clinical expertise with a passion for education and workforce development.

Calm, collaborative, and forward thinking, you bring both the clinical depth to manage complex situations and the leadership presence to influence change at service and national levels.

What you will bring :

• Current NZNC registration and Annual Practicing Certificate
• Post Graduate Diploma in specialty (working toward Clinical Masters)
• Achieved or working towards PDRP Expert Level
• SPEC trainer certification with advanced clinical experience in SPEC management
• Significant mental health nursing experience
• Demonstrated ability to deliver education, mentor staff, and provide clinical leadership
• Strong understanding of research findings and evidence-based practice
• Confidence with digital tools and competency in using clinical systems

Working for Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand.

We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community.

We welcome applications from our Maori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To view the position description and / or apply for the role please click "apply now." All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11 : 59pm on 25 September 2025.

If you have any questions about the role, please contact

Please note, we will be reviewing applications when received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.