Frequently Asked Questions

• What can I expect to earn as a senior doctor in New Zealand?

  In a senior doctor job in New Zealand you can expect to earn between $140,000 - $200,000 per annum, with work available across all 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 really might miss out.  To give yourself the best chance at getting your perfect placement ready for an August start we would prefer to hear from you in the October prior.
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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. Register with MedRecruit and then we’ll  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 New Zealand?

  Yes, if you qualify for registration as a Locum Tenens under Special Purpose Scope (UK, Irish, American, Canadian graduates), or as an Australian graduate with Vocational Scope.

   

  The Locum Tenens pathway is a special purpose pathway and enables specialists with a recognized post-graduate qualification to work as a specialist in NZ for up to 6 months. To be eligible to apply for this pathway you must meet minimum criteria including holding an MCNZ approved post graduate qualification, recent clinical experience, be IELTS exempt and have an offer of employment. The Locum Tenens pathway is an excellent way to experience the New Zealand hospital system, before deciding if you wish to relocate to New Zealand on a permanent basis. It takes 20 working days to process the Locum Tenens registration.

  If you don't meet these requirements, once you have General Registration you will be able to undertake locum work.

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• Can I do a six month placement in New Zealand?

  Yes.  However New Zealand hospitals prefer you to commit to 1 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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• How do I find out about vacancies?

  The very best way is to sign up for regular and up to the minute job match emails from MedRecruit. If you’re really keen, you can elect to get your saved search results emailed to you daily! And, it’s vital that you let your Solutions Specialist know exactly what you want, so they’ll also notify you of the jobs they know are perfect for you. The more they know about your preferences, the more they’ll work hard on your behalf to make it happen.
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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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