Question 1

Can I work in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

MCNZ registered doctors have lots of opportunities to find permanent and locum work in New Zealand. Australian-trained doctors can work in New Zealand – you'll need to gain MCNZ registration and we can assist you in this process. Doctors who gained their primary medical degree overseas will ideally have a few years’ experience in a comparative health system (like in the UK or Ireland) under their belt. There are pathways to work in New Zealand if you trained overseas, but there are some restrictions. Our page for International Doctors  has more information.

Question 2

Where is the work in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

There are roles available right across New Zealand. Many (though certainly not all) locum roles are in rural locations and lots of doctors we work with love using this as an opportunity to explore new places. Where the work is also depends on the type of work you’d like to do and what your specialty and experience is. You can search for current roles on our job search page.

Question 3

What paperwork will I need to apply for roles?

Accepted Answer

Your registration number, a current CV and three references are the essentials of any job application. Other paperwork that's commonly required is:

Evidence of vaccinations, 
Evidence of your degree/fellowship, 
Annual Practicing Certificates, 
Indemnity, 
A certified copy of your passport and/or driver’s licence, 
Police vetting form.

What you'll need can vary slightly between Australian states and in New Zealand. Some states/locations also ask you complete an online training course (eMedical Courses). We're here to help guide you through the requirements and we'll give you a checklist detailing everything you need.

Question 4

New Zealand

Accepted Answer

New Zealand is currently operating under a traffic light system - the country is operating under the red setting. New Zealand’s borders are closed to almost all travellers. Citizens, permanent residents, and some visa holders are allowed to return but depending on where they arrive from, must quarantine for ten days on arrival.

Two-way quarantine-free flights (also known as green flights) between New Zealand and Australia are suspended. Travel within New Zealand is easy. You can travel between areas freely, provided you have a valid vaccine passport. 
 
Use of the Covid-19 scanner app or singing in at businesses is mandatory. Face masks are mandatory on public transport and must be worn when visiting essential services. They are encouraged at other times outside of your home. 
 
If you’re an international doctor considering work in New Zealand, you can still apply. Moving here takes six months to one year, so it’s best to plan ahead. See our International page for more information.

Question 5

Will working as a locum affect my tax status?

Accepted Answer

Yes, working as a locum means you are essentially a contractor. Your tax structure will be different. In Australia, you will need to provide an Australian Business Number. In New Zealand, you may need to register for GST

Question 6

Where is the work in Australia?

Accepted Answer

There are roles available right across Australia. Where the work is depends on your experience and specialty. Many (though certainly not all) locum roles are in rural areas. Overseas-trained doctors are required to work in a rural area of need for a period of time.

Lots of doctors we work with love earning extra and exploring the country through locum and permanent placements. You can find out more about our current job listings on the job search page.

Doctor jobs in New Zealand

29 jobs found

Registrar - General practice - obstetrics and gynaecology

Specialist Consultant - General practice - GP / family medicine

Resident Medical Officer - Emergency medicine

Registrar - O & G - Obstetrics and gynaecology

Registrar - General practice - aged care

SMO/MOSS - Intensive care medicine

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Registrar - Gastroenterology and hepatology

Resident Medical Officer - Sexual health medicine

Specialist Consultant - General practice - GP / family medicine

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