Discover a career as a Midwife in New Zealand
You walk alongside whānau (families) through one of life's most meaningful journeys – now it's time to explore what's next in yours. Whether you're seeking a better work-life balance, more autonomy or the chance to live somewhere extraordinary, New Zealand offers something for you.At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, you'll join a system that supports continuity of care, values cultural safety and offers diverse opportunities across community and hospital-based services. We're welcoming qualified midwives who want to make a real difference for pēpi (babies), māmā (mothers) and whānau across the country.
Opportunities across Health New Zealand
Midwives at Health New Zealand work in a range of settings depending on the district, including:
- Primary birthing units
- Secondary and tertiary maternity hospitals
- Community-based midwifery teams
- Kaupapa Māori (Māori-led) maternity services
- Rural and remote midwifery outreach
Some services offer rotation across antenatal, labour and postnatal care, while others support continuity of care or case loading.
What it's like to work here
Midwives in New Zealand are autonomous practitioners working as part of multi-disciplinary teams that centre the needs of wāhine (women) and their whānau.
You'll benefit from:
- Supportive clinical and peer networks
- Paid professional development and CPD leave
- Workplace flexibility and part-time options
- Structured career development pathways
- Commitment to culturally safe and equitable care
We're focused on sustainable practice so you can provide safe care while maintaining your own wellbeing.
Call New Zealand home
If you receive an offer, our Health Immigration Service offers free support to help you and your whānau relocate. Midwives are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List, which means you're eligible for the Straight to Residence Visa – allowing you to apply for residency before you arrive.
From mountain hikes to beach days and vibrant cities to rural retreats, you'll find a lifestyle that matches your pace and priorities.
Salary & benefits
Base salary: NZD $72,952 – $100,389 (based on the MERAS or NZNO Midwifery MECA, depending on your employer)
Additional compensation: Penal rates, overtime, on-call and availability allowances where applicable
You'll also receive:
- Reimbursement of your professional registration and APC
- Paid Continuing Professional Development (CPD) time and allowance
- Professional indemnity cover provided by Health NZ
- Four weeks of annual leave per year
- Ten days of paid sick leave
- Twelve public holidays (plus time in lieu if rostered on)
- Fourteen weeks paid parental leave
- Long service and special leave entitlements
What you need to work here
To work as a midwife in New Zealand, you must be registered with the Midwifery Council of New Zealand and hold a current Annual Practising Certificate (APC). International applicants are assessed on their qualifications, experience and competence.
Working for Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Te Whatu Ora means "the weaving of wellness." We're building a single, unified health system that delivers equitable, high-quality care across the motu (country). Our people are at the heart of everything we do.
We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to building a diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all people – including Māori, Pacific Peoples, those from ethnic communities, disabled people and the Rainbow community.
Our values are grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) and our commitment to health equity for Māori and all New Zealanders. Through collaboration, innovation and shared purpose, we aim to create a health system where everyone can thrive.
Ready to make a difference?
Our international recruitment team can support you through the application, registration and immigration process – and help you find the right place to call home.
Apply now – and make a difference somewhere different.
