Defining Social Work in Aotearoa

How social work has tracked societal change in New Zealand

Massey University was the first New Zealand university to offer a social work degree, 40 years ago. This book is published to mark that milestone. Relevant to all social workers today, its chapters highlight the political and social backdrop against which the profession has developed over the past four decades.

It also casts a critical eye over the key issues and trends that continue to preoccupy the profession, policy-makers, politicians, the media and, indeed, the general populace. Its detailed bibliography highlights the
remarkable and influential body of work of Massey social work students, staff and alumni since 1976.

To look inside, click here.

‘While the book highlights many achievements of the programme, it also clearly reflects upon challenges ahead for the profession and social work education. It is wonderful that Merv Hancock’s wisdom on the uncertainty of the future completed the text: “Social work can make a contribution to defining the kind of society we live in. Therefore it needs to maintain a level of optimism about itself”. I thoroughly recommend this well researched, critical text.’ — Sonya Hunt, Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work