Discover a career as a Paediatrician in New Zealand
You provide expert care for tamariki (children) and rangatahi (young people) - now it's time to find the same care and support for yourself. Whether you're seeking more time, professional growth or the chance to explore New Zealand's natural beauty, we have something for you.At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, you'll work in supportive teams delivering high-quality, family-centred care across the motu (country). We're welcoming Paediatricians who want to make a difference while enjoying a more balanced lifestyle.
Opportunities across Health New Zealand
Paediatricians in New Zealand work in regional and tertiary hospitals, providing inpatient and outpatient care. Depending on your role and location, your scope may include:
- General paediatrics (inpatient and outpatient)
- Newborn care and special care baby units (SCBU)
- Community child health and developmental services
- Acute paediatric medicine and emergency support
- Child protection and child development assessment
- Opportunities to subspecialise (depending on service)
- Registrar supervision, education and governance
Many regional services offer a broad generalist scope with the ability to develop subspecialty interests. In larger centres, you may contribute to shared care with tertiary units and paediatric specialists.
What it's like to work here
Paediatricians in New Zealand are key members of multidisciplinary teams working to deliver whānau-centred care. You'll work closely with nurses, allied health professionals, GPs and social workers to support the health and development of tamariki across communities.
You'll benefit from:
- Collaborative team environments and strong peer networks
- Non-clinical time for CME, teaching or service improvement
- Support to explore child protection, neurodevelopment, youth health or rural outreach
- Opportunities to contribute to equity and child health outcomes
- A health system committed to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and child wellbeing
Call New Zealand home
If you receive a job offer, our Health Immigration Service provides free support to help you and your whānau (family) relocate. Paediatricians are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List, making you eligible for the Straight to Residence Visa – so you can apply for residency before you even arrive.
Whether you prefer mountains, beaches or vibrant towns, New Zealand offers space to breathe, raise a family and focus on what matters most.
Salary & benefits
Base salary: NZD $170,000 – $250,000+ (based on the ASMS MECA)
Additional compensation: Penal rates, on-call and availability allowances where applicable
You'll also receive:
- Annual CME allowance (up to NZD $16,000)
- CME leave (up to 10 days per year)
- Six weeks of annual leave per year
- Twelve public holidays (plus time in lieu if rostered on)
- Paid parental leave and long service entitlements
- Reimbursement of MCNZ registration and APC
- Professional indemnity cover paid by your employer
What you need to work here
To practise as a Paediatrician in New Zealand, you must be registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) and hold a current Annual Practising Certificate (APC).
Most international applicants need a postgraduate qualification comparable to Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (FRACP in Paediatrics) or another recognised paediatric qualification.
Working for Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Te Whatu Ora means "the weaving of wellness." We are building a single, unified health system that delivers equitable and 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.
