As a Radiologist in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will be working in a welcoming collegial environment collaborating with other specialists and healthcare providers to deliver quality patient-centred care.
We embrace continuous growth and innovation in our services, where learning on the job and building your professional and leadership skills is supported and encouraged.
One of the best things about living and working in New Zealand is the emphasis on work-life balance – this allows radiologists to strike a balance between enjoying work and the stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture and outdoor activities the country is known for. This combination of professional fulfilment and lifestyle appeal makes New Zealand an attractive destination for radiologists seeking both career opportunities and personal well-being.
Join a supportive and collaborative environment dedicated to patient-centred care!
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.
There is a range of additional allowances for:
Leave entitlements include:
Additional benefits include:
KiwiSaver (superannuation savings scheme)
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:
The roles and responsibilities of a Radiologist in New Zealand include a range of clinical, diagnostic, and collaborative duties:
Radiologists interpret medical images such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasound scans to diagnose diseases, injuries, and other medical conditions.
Radiologists are responsible for ensuring that imaging procedures are safe and appropriate for each patient.
Radiologists may perform minimally invasive procedures guided by imaging technology, such as biopsies, drainages, or the insertion of catheters and stents. These procedures often serve as alternatives to traditional surgery.
Radiologists frequently collaborate with other medical professionals, providing expert opinions on imaging results to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning. They may also participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss complex cases.
Radiologists are responsible for ensuring the quality of imaging procedures and maintaining safety standards. This includes oversight of imaging protocols to minimise radiation exposure and adhering to expected standards of practice in Radiology.
Many Radiologists in New Zealand contribute to the education and training of medical students, Radiology residents, and other healthcare professionals. This may involve delivering lectures, supervising clinical training, and mentoring junior staff.
Radiologists are often involved in clinical research to advance the field of Radiology and improve patient care. They also engage in continuing education to stay current with technological advancements and emerging practices in diagnostic imaging.
Radiologists may take on administrative roles, such as managing a Radiology department, developing policies and procedures, or overseeing the implementation of new technologies and practices within the imaging service.
To work as a Radiologist in New Zealand, the following qualifications and experience are required:
MBChB or equivalent — Radiologists must first obtain a medical degree (MBChB or equivalent) from a recognised medical school. This typically involves a 5- to 6-year undergraduate medical programme.
New Zealand Medical Council registration — Graduates must complete a one-year internship (house officer year) and obtain general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ). International medical graduates may need to pass additional exams or assessments to gain registration.
Radiology residency programme — After gaining general medical registration, doctors must complete a specialist training programme in Radiology. In New Zealand, this is typically a 5-year training programme accredited by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR). The programme includes both clinical training and examinations.
FRANZCR certification — upon successful completion of the residency programme, Radiologists must obtain a Fellowship with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) or equivalent. This fellowship certifies them as a qualified Radiologist and is required to practice independently in New Zealand.
Clinical experience — relevant clinical experience during and after the residency programme is essential. Many Radiologists gain additional experience through fellowships or work in various subspecialties of Radiology, such as Interventional Radiology, Neuroradiology, or Paediatric Radiology.
Ongoing education — Radiologists are expected to engage in continued professional development (CPD) to maintain their registration and stay up to date with the latest advancements in Radiology. This may involve attending conferences, workshops, and completing CPD activities.
Language requirements — proficiency in English is mandatory, and international medical graduates may need to provide proof of English language proficiency through exams like IELTS or OET, unless they have completed their primary medical qualifications in an English-speaking country.
Professional registration — in addition to MCNZ, Radiologists may need to register with relevant professional bodies, such as the RANZCR, and adhere to their standards and codes of conduct.
Titles may vary depending on the specific role, responsibilities, and the country in which the Radiologist is practising. However, some alternative titles internationally could include:
We have a page dedicated to providing information to candidates about our recruitment process, what you need to work in New Zealand and key details about moving here.
Health NZ’s Health Immigration Service, Kiwi Health Jobs, Immigration NZ and the Medical Council of New Zealand have run joint webinars to take you through the different steps towards starting a new adventure in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Learn more about moving to our beautiful country, directly from the people who process your applications.
Whether you prefer the vibrant urban centres of Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch, the scenic landscapes of Otago and Nelson, or the close-knit community atmosphere in areas like Hawke's Bay and Taranaki, there’s a location to suit your lifestyle.
Whether you prefer the vibrant urban centres of Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch, the scenic landscapes of Otago and Nelson, or the close-knit community atmosphere in areas like Hawke's Bay and Taranaki, there’s a location to suit your lifestyle.
