By becoming a Care Champion you will:
Interested in becoming a chaplain?
Chaplains come from a wide range of backgrounds—nursing, teaching, counselling, social work, policing, and more. While you don’t need to have been a church minister, chaplains are expected to be in good standing with their church or denomination.
Most chaplains have completed theological training and bring some form of pastoral experience, though this doesn't have to be parish-based. What’s essential is a strong foundation in practical theology and a genuine openness to care for all people, with respect for their culture, beliefs, and life experiences.
Chaplaincy is deeply rewarding work. It offers a unique opportunity to walk alongside people during some of the most significant moments of their lives—whether joyful or difficult. As a chaplain, you bring presence, compassion, and hope into spaces where they’re often most needed. Many chaplains describe the role as a profound privilege and a calling that continually shapes and inspires them.
“I find Chaplaincy immensely rewarding, although I readily admit I don't always have the right words and I certainly don't have all the answers.
A smile or a nod might be enough for people to want to talk. We're not here to preach or convert, but to listen with compassion and empathy."
- Chaplain Matiu Best
Some training programmes also offer chaplaincy-specific content, which can be helpful preparation.
We advertise current chaplaincy vacancies on our website and on www.seek.co.nz. If you feel drawn to this kind of work, we encourage you to explore the opportunities and consider where your experience and heart might be needed most.
Because we all need a little extra care at times