Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

Salary

Senior Medical Officers receive a base salary relative to their level of experience. This is agreed upon at the time of the job offer. There is a 15-step pay scale that SMOs continue to progress through on a yearly basis.

In New Zealand, the salaries and benefits of some roles are determined by collective agreements between unions and employers.

Employment agreementsexternal link

Additional allowances are paid on top of base salary and vary due to location and service, and are often not specified in the collective agreement.

Allowances

There is a range of additional allowances for:

• on-call
• evening, night and weekend work
• call back
• job size
• recruitment and retention
• special contribution.

Leave

Leave entitlements include:

• 6 weeks of paid annual leave
• a minimum of 10 days of sick leave per year
• 10 days of paid continuing medical education leave (CME), plus the ability to use annual leave tacked onto the end of your CME travel
• 6 to 12 months of parental leave, depending on the length of service, including 6 weeks of fully paid parental leave
• 12 paid public holidays and time in lieu or alternative holiday if rostered on
• long service leave and sabbatical opportunities.

Additional benefits

Additional benefits include:

• an annual continuing medical education (CME) allowance of NZD $16,000 (pro-rated for part-time employees)
• membership subscriptions of medical professional bodies are reimbursed by Health NZ
• your professional indemnity insurance is covered by Health NZ
• if eligible, up to a 6% matching superannuation contribution from Health NZ as your employer
• a relocation package for international candidates.

KiwiSaver (superannuation savings scheme)

Leadership and career development opportunities

Health NZ encourages Senior Medical Officers to be involved in the design, implementation and performance of facilities and technology involved in the delivery of healthcare services to ensure an effective, efficient and safe workplace.

Specific opportunities vary by location and service; however, they can include:

• support and encouragement for research and publications
• mentorship opportunities for apprentice Junior Doctors/Registrars
• regional and national networks allowing for subspeciality research and practice.
• ongoing development and support for career growth with on-the-job coaching and a variety of in-house training programmes.

Obstetric care

Antenatal care

Monitoring and managing the health of pregnant women throughout their pregnancy. This includes regular check-ups, diagnosing any complications, and providing medical advice regarding fetal development, maternal nutrition, and exercise.

Labour and delivery

Overseeing and managing the childbirth process, including both natural and assisted deliveries. This may involve:

• performing caesarean sections if medically necessary
• using techniques like forceps or vacuum extraction during difficult deliveries
• managing complications such as breech births, pre-eclampsia, or premature labour.

Postnatal care

Ensuring the health of both mother and baby after delivery. This includes monitoring recovery from childbirth and addressing any postpartum complications.

Gynaecological care

Diagnosis and treatment of gynaecological conditions

Managing conditions related to the female reproductive system, such as:

• menstrual disorders such as heavy bleeding, pain
• endometriosis
• ovarian cysts
• uterine fibroids
• pelvic organ prolapse.

Surgical interventions

Performing surgical procedures such as hysterectomies, laparoscopy and myomectomies. Specialists may also manage more complex surgeries like repairing pelvic floor damage after childbirth.

Fertility treatments

Diagnosing and managing infertility issues, including performing procedures such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in-vitro fertilisation (IVF).

Family planning and contraceptive services

• Advising patients on family planning options and providing contraception solutions such as intrauterine devices (IUDs), contraceptive implants, and oral contraceptives.
• Offering counselling and performing sterilisation procedures like tubal ligation.

Cancer screening and treatment

• Screening for and diagnosing gynaecological cancers such as cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancer. This includes performing pap smears, colposcopies, and biopsies.
• Managing cancer treatment plans, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, or referrals to oncologists for advanced care.

Emergency care

Managing obstetric emergencies

Handling life-threatening conditions like severe haemorrhaging, ectopic pregnancies or placental abruption. Immediate decision-making is often required in these scenarios to save both the mother and the child.

Urgent gynaecological care

Responding to urgent cases such as ovarian torsion or ruptured cysts that may require immediate surgical intervention.

Education and advocacy

Patient education

Educating women on sexual and reproductive health, prenatal care, and general well-being. Specialists play an important role in providing information on issues such as menopause, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and healthy pregnancy.

Mentorship and training

In teaching hospitals, obstetrics and gynaecology specialists often train junior doctors, registrars, and medical students. They may also be involved in developing healthcare policies and programs focused on women's health.

Cultural competency and care for Māori and Pacific populations

• Providing culturally appropriate care that acknowledges and integrates Te Tiriti o Waitangi | The Treaty of Waitangi principles and the unique health needs of Māori and Pacific women.
• Ensuring healthcare practices respect Māori traditions and values, particularly in maternity care.

Administrative duties

Record keeping

Maintaining accurate and detailed medical records, including patient histories, treatment plans, and surgical reports.

Collaboration

Working closely with other healthcare professionals such as Midwives, Nurses, Paediatricians and Anaesthetists to ensure comprehensive care for patients.

Compliance

Adhering to the guidelines, protocols and ethical standards set by the Medical Council of New Zealand and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG).

Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in Aotearoa New Zealand must meet rigorous educational, clinical, and professional standards, ensuring they are highly skilled and culturally competent. This is critical for delivering high-quality care in the country's diverse healthcare system.

Medical professionals training in obstetrics and gynaecology in New Zealand typically undergo 6 years of medical school, followed by a comprehensive training program under the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). This involves advanced clinical experience and specialisation.

Skills

Clinical Skills

Expertise in diagnosing, managing, and treating conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health. This includes performing surgeries like caesarean sections, hysterectomies, and other gynaecological procedures.

Communication

Strong communication skills are critical for explaining diagnoses, procedures, and care plans to patients. This also includes counselling patients through sensitive health matters.

Teamwork

The ability to work collaboratively with midwives, nurses, paediatricians, anaesthetists, and other specialists in multidisciplinary teams.

Problem-solving

Obstetricians and gynaecologists must be able to think critically and act decisively, especially in high-pressure situations like complicated pregnancies or childbirth emergencies.

Cultural competency

Understanding of and respect for New Zealand's diverse cultural landscape, including the ability to provide care that aligns with the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi | The Treaty of Waitangi and is culturally appropriate for Māori and Pacific populations.

Experience

Postgraduate training

After completing medical school, O&G specialists must undergo specialist training, which takes about 6 years in New Zealand. This involves clinical rotations in obstetrics, gynaecology, and related subspecialties.

Specialty registration

Specialists need to be registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) under the vocational scope of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

International experience

International specialists must have completed training and be eligible for registration through recognised qualifications and sufficient clinical experience. Comparable training from countries like the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada is often considered acceptable.

Knowledge

Medical knowledge

A comprehensive understanding of female reproductive anatomy, fetal development, maternal health, fertility treatments, prenatal care, and surgical techniques specific to obstetrics and gynaecology.

Knowledge of guidelines

Familiarity with New Zealand's healthcare guidelines, protocols, and ethical standards for maternal and reproductive healthcare.

Epidemiology and population health

Knowledge of population-specific health challenges, particularly around maternal health for Māori and Pacific women, ensuring that care plans consider socio-economic, cultural, and environmental factors.

Qualifications

Medical degree (MBChB or equivalent)

You must have completed a basic medical degree from a recognised institution.

Fellowship with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG)

This is the main qualification to practice as an obstetrics and gynaecology specialist in New Zealand. The training includes clinical practice, exams, and assessments, which culminate in a Fellowship (FRANZCOG).

Registration with the MCNZ

Specialists must hold vocational registration in obstetrics and gynaecology with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ), demonstrating they have met New Zealand's medical standards.

Ongoing professional development

Obstetrics and gynaecology specialists are required to engage in continuous education to keep up with medical advancements and maintain their registration.

Additional attributes

Empathy and compassion

The nature of the specialty, which often involves sensitive issues such as fertility, pregnancy loss, and childbirth complications, requires a compassionate and empathetic approach.

Physical dexterity

Performing surgeries and delivering babies demands high levels of hand-eye coordination and physical stamina.

Adaptability

Given the unpredictability of childbirth and emergency situations, adaptability is essential.

Registering to work as a Senior Medical Officer in Aotearoa New Zealand

To work as a Senior Medical Officer in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will need to obtain vocational registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).

Pathways to vocational registration

Direct pathway to vocational registration

• If you are an international medical graduate (IMG) with specialist qualifications from countries with medical systems deemed equivalent to New Zealand's (such as Australia, the UK, the USA, Canada and some European countries), you may be eligible to apply directly for vocational registration without needing first to obtain general registration.
• In this pathway, MCNZ will assess your specialist qualifications, clinical experience, and the medical system where you trained. If these are deemed equivalent, you can apply directly for vocational registration in your specialty.
• This pathway allows experienced specialists to bypass general registration and the provisional general phase, which is typically required for doctors without a recognised specialist qualification.

Provisional vocational registration pathway

• If MCNZ determines that your qualifications and experience are largely equivalent but that you need some orientation or assessment within the New Zealand healthcare system, you may be granted provisional vocational registration.
• This means you will practice in your specialty under supervision for a period, typically between 6 to 12 months, before being granted full vocational registration.
• During this provisional vocational registration period, a specialist who practises in the same area of medicine as you will supervise you.

General registration pathway

• If you do not meet the criteria for direct vocational registration, you may need to obtain general registration first if your qualifications and experience are not recognised as equivalent.
• This process to gain vocational registration includes:
  • a period of provisional general registration (with supervised practice) if necessary
  • after obtaining general registration, you can later apply for vocational registration once you have completed any further assessments or additional supervised practice required by the MCNZ.

Self-assessment

The Medical Council of New Zealand have a self-assessment tool to help you easily determine which registration pathway you should take.

Registration self assessment tool — Medical Council of New Zealandexternal link

Find out more about life in New Zealand

We have a page dedicated to providing information to candidates about our recruitment process, what you need to work in Aotearoa New Zealand and key details about moving here.

Visas and settling in New Zealand

Salary

Senior Medical Officers receive a base salary relative to their level of experience. This is agreed upon at the time of the job offer. There is a 15-step pay scale that SMOs continue to progress through on a yearly basis.

In New Zealand, the salaries and benefits of some roles are determined by collective agreements between unions and employers.

Employment agreementsexternal link

Additional allowances are paid on top of base salary and vary due to location and service, and are often not specified in the collective agreement.

Allowances

There is a range of additional allowances for:

• on-call
• evening, night and weekend work
• call back
• job size
• recruitment and retention
• special contribution.

Leave

Leave entitlements include:

• 6 weeks of paid annual leave
• a minimum of 10 days of sick leave per year
• 10 days of paid continuing medical education leave (CME), plus the ability to use annual leave tacked onto the end of your CME travel
• 6 to 12 months of parental leave, depending on the length of service, including 6 weeks of fully paid parental leave
• 12 paid public holidays and time in lieu or alternative holiday if rostered on
• long service leave and sabbatical opportunities.

Additional benefits

Additional benefits include:

• an annual continuing medical education (CME) allowance of NZD $16,000 (pro-rated for part-time employees)
• membership subscriptions of medical professional bodies are reimbursed by Health NZ
• your professional indemnity insurance is covered by Health NZ
• if eligible, up to a 6% matching superannuation contribution from Health NZ as your employer
• a relocation package for international candidates.

KiwiSaver (superannuation savings scheme)

Leadership and career development opportunities

Health NZ encourages Senior Medical Officers to be involved in the design, implementation and performance of facilities and technology involved in the delivery of healthcare services to ensure an effective, efficient and safe workplace.

Specific opportunities vary by location and service; however, they can include:

• support and encouragement for research and publications
• mentorship opportunities for apprentice Junior Doctors/Registrars
• regional and national networks allowing for subspeciality research and practice.
• ongoing development and support for career growth with on-the-job coaching and a variety of in-house training programmes.

Additional benefits

• Reimbursement of your registration and practising certificate fees.
• Your professional indemnity insurance is covered by Health NZ.
• An annual continuing medical education allowance of NZD $16,000 (pro-rated for part-time employees).
• If eligible, up to a 6% matching superannuation contribution from Health NZ as your employer.
• Relocation package for international candidates.

Benefits of working in New Zealand

• Great balance — New Zealand is known for its work-life balance to make the most of what the country has to offer.
• Multidisciplinary team — work alongside experts in oncology, pathology, radiology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. A supportive and dynamic environment for Gynaecological Oncologists, fostering professional growth while enabling work-life balance.
• Work arrangements — options for full-time or locum positions to suit individual needs.
• Wellbeing support — access to wellness programs, employee assistance programs (EAP), and support services for personal and professional wellbeing. 
• Exceptional quality of life — living in New Zealand provides access to stunning natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and a family-friendly environment. Auckland and Christchurch offer excellent schools, a vibrant cultural scene, and world-class amenities.
• Continuing medical education — financial support and paid leave to attend conferences, workshops, and training programs locally or internationally.
• Research opportunities — collaboration with the University of Auckland or the University of Otago and other academic institutions for clinical trials and research in gynaecological oncology.
• Mentorship and teaching — engage in teaching medical students, registrars, and fellows, contributing to the future workforce.

Leadership and career development opportunities

• Support and encouragement for research and publications.
• Mentorship opportunities for apprentice Junior Doctors and Registrars.
• Regional and national networks allow for subspeciality research and practice.
• Ongoing development and support for career growth with on-the-job coaching and a variety of in-house training programmes.

• Collaborate and work to maintain equitable gynaecological oncology services in line with strategic requirements.
• Provide support to other consultants in the specialty, routine and emergency gynaecological oncology services.
• Provide a consultation and advisory service to medical colleagues in other specialties
• Development of special interests to complement existing consultants in the specialty and in accordance with the Health NZ priorities.
• Develop appropriate services and techniques required to fulfil clinical needs, within available resources.
• Participate in the professional supervision and appraisal of junior medical staff in conjunction with colleagues.

Medical qualification

You must hold a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) or an overseas qualification that is assessed as equivalent to New Zealand standards by the MCNZ.

Subspecialty qualification

You will need either:

• CGO accreditation — gynaecological oncology certification with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG)
• equivalent subspecialty qualification in gynaecological oncology.

Colposcopy accreditation

You must register with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).

To apply for vocational registration, you need either:

• Fellowship with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FRANZCOG) qualification
• an international postgraduate medical qualification in obstetrics and gynaecology, where your combination of qualifications, training and experience will be assessed against the standard of the FRANZCOG.

Annual Practising Certificate (APC)

To practice as a Gynaecological Oncologist you must hold a valid Annual Practising Certificate (APC) with the MCNZ, which is renewed annually.

To maintain the APC, you must:

• provide evidence of ongoing competence
• demonstrate participation in continuing professional development (CPD) activities.

Registering to work as a Senior Medical Officer in Aotearoa New Zealand

To work as a Senior Medical Officer in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will need to obtain vocational registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).

Pathways to vocational registration

Direct pathway to vocational registration

• If you are an international medical graduate (IMG) with specialist qualifications from countries with medical systems deemed equivalent to New Zealand's (such as Australia, the UK, the USA, Canada and some European countries), you may be eligible to apply directly for vocational registration without needing first to obtain general registration.
• In this pathway, MCNZ will assess your specialist qualifications, clinical experience, and the medical system where you trained. If these are deemed equivalent, you can apply directly for vocational registration in your specialty.
• This pathway allows experienced specialists to bypass general registration and the provisional general phase, which is typically required for doctors without a recognised specialist qualification.

Provisional vocational registration pathway

• If MCNZ determines that your qualifications and experience are largely equivalent but that you need some orientation or assessment within the New Zealand healthcare system, you may be granted provisional vocational registration.
• This means you will practice in your specialty under supervision for a period, typically between 6 to 12 months, before being granted full vocational registration.
• During this provisional vocational registration period, a specialist who practises in the same area of medicine as you will supervise you.

General registration pathway

• If you do not meet the criteria for direct vocational registration, you may need to obtain general registration first if your qualifications and experience are not recognised as equivalent.
• This process to gain vocational registration includes:
  • a period of provisional general registration (with supervised practice) if necessary
  • after obtaining general registration, you can later apply for vocational registration once you have completed any further assessments or additional supervised practice required by the MCNZ.

Self-assessment

The Medical Council of New Zealand have a self-assessment tool to help you easily determine which registration pathway you should take.

Registration self assessment tool — Medical Council of New Zealandexternal link

Find out more about life in New Zealand

We have a page dedicated to providing information to candidates about our recruitment process, what you need to work in Aotearoa New Zealand and key details about moving here.

Visas and settling in New Zealand