Frequently Asked Questions

• How much can I expect to earn as a junior doctor in New Zealand?

  In a junior doctor job in New Zealand you can expect to earn between $85,000 - $140,000 per annum, with work available across a range of specialties.
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• I prefer to work in the major city hospitals, how easy is it to get jobs in these locations?

  In New Zealand we have options in the major city hospitals.  However there are generally less positions in these hospitals so we encourage doctors to apply early, otherwise you might miss out.  To give yourself the best chance at getting your perfect placement ready for an August start we would need to hear from you in the October prior.
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• Once I am working in New Zealand what are my chances of getting onto a training scheme?

  We have a number of UK and Irish doctors who have come over to New Zealand and have been offered training posts after one year.  The reality is that a lot of the doctors that come over to New Zealand end up staying (even if they think they won’t!), so yes, once you have proven your commitment to working and living in New Zealand, you will get onto a training post pretty quickly! The same can be said for Australia.   
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• Will the hospitals cover my relocation costs in New Zealand?

  Not all hospitals in New Zealand will cover relocation costs however some of the smaller hospitals outside the major cities are happy to do so. Your relocation costs are reimbursed at the end of your contract.
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• Do I qualify to work in New Zealand?

  Doctors who have obtained their primary medical degree in Australia are eligible for general registration in New Zealand if they have completed an internship in New Zealand or Australia, and achieved registration in a general scope or full registration.

  Doctors who have completed their primary medical degree and training outside New Zealand or Australia may be eligible for registration. MedRecruit will review your CV, and let you know how we can help.

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• How do I organise my registration in New Zealand?

  MedRecruit will take you through that process.  Because of the time difference it is much easier for us to liaise directly with the Medical Council of New Zealand.  We will walk you through the application making sure it is completed nice and early so you can spend the rest of your time getting excited about your move!
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• Can I locum in NZ?

  As a UK or Irish trained doctor you will be on provisional registration for the first six months you are working in New Zealand and therefore cannot locum.  Once you have your general registration you will be able to undertake locum work.
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• Can I do a 6 month placement in New Zealand?

  Yes.  However you would need to be starting a placement during the months of January – March.  If you are looking to start in August, New Zealand hospitals will only consider 12 month contracts at due to the influx of applicants that occurs at this time each year.
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• Who will organise my visa?

  Once MedRecruit has arranged your registration, we will take you through the process of gaining your visa. 
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• Do I have to pay MedRecruit for finding me a job?

  No, our service to doctors is completely free.
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