As a Cardiothoracic Surgeon in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will work in a supportive and collaborative environment, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to provide high-quality, patient-focused care for complex heart and lung conditions.
We value innovation and professional growth, encouraging ongoing learning and leadership development as you refine your skills in advanced surgical techniques and contribute to improving patient outcomes.
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:
Cardiothoracic Surgeons diagnose and manage diseases affecting the:
This includes both operative and non-operative treatments.
Cardiothoracic Surgeons perform complex surgeries such as:
Training through RACS prepares surgeons for these procedures, including advanced techniques like minimally invasive surgery.
Cardiothoracic Surgeons manage chest trauma, addressing injuries to vital organs and structures within the thoracic cavity.
Cardiothoracic Surgeons monitor and manage patient recovery following surgery, working with intensive care units to address complications and ensure optimal recovery outcomes.
Many surgeons contribute to the training of junior doctors and surgical trainees as part of their role, in alignment with RACS training programs. This includes supervision and mentorship during clinical rotations.
Cardiothoracic Surgeons must participate in ongoing professional development through RACS continuing professional development programmes. They are also encouraged to contribute to clinical research to advance the field and improve surgical outcomes.
Cardiothoracic Surgeons adhere to the standards and guidelines established by MCNZ and RACS, ensuring that all surgical interventions meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy.
Cardiothoracic Surgeons 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.
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.
After gaining general medical registration, doctors must complete a total of six years of specialised training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). This includes:
Trainees must pass several key examinations and complete essential courses during their training:
Upon successful completion of all training requirements, including the Fellowship examination, doctors are awarded the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Cardiothoracic Surgery. This is required to practice independently in New Zealand.
Relevant clinical experience is gained during training and must include:
Cardiothoracic surgeons are expected to engage in continuing professional development through the RACS continuing professional development programme to maintain their skills and registration.
Proficiency in English is mandatory. 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.
In addition to registration with the MCNZ, cardiothoracic surgeons must adhere to the standards and codes of conduct established by RACS and other relevant professional bodies.
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).
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
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
As a Neurosurgeon in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will work in a supportive and collaborative environment, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to deliver exceptional, patient-focused care for complex neurological conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nervous system.
We value innovation and professional growth, fostering ongoing learning and leadership development as you refine your skills in advanced surgical techniques and contribute to advancing neurosurgical outcomes.
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:
Neurosurgeons diagnose and manage diseases affecting the:
This includes both operative and non-operative treatments for a range of neurological conditions.
Neurosurgeons perform complex surgeries such as:
Training through RACS equips neurosurgeons with expertise in advanced techniques, including minimally invasive and microsurgical methods.
Neurosurgeons manage neurological trauma, addressing life-threatening conditions such as skull fractures, intracranial hemorrhages, and spinal injuries.
Neurosurgeons oversee patient recovery following surgery, monitor neurological function, manage complications, and work closely with intensive care and rehabilitation teams to ensure optimal outcomes.
Many neurosurgeons contribute to the training of junior doctors and surgical trainees, aligning with RACS programs. This includes supervision, mentorship, and involvement in neurosurgical education.
Neurosurgeons engage in ongoing professional development through RACS continuing professional development programmes. They are encouraged to participate in clinical research, advancing neurosurgical techniques and improving patient outcomes.
Neurosurgeons adhere to the standards and guidelines established by MCNZ and RACS, ensuring all surgical procedures meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy.
Neurosurgeons 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.
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.
After gaining general medical registration, doctors must complete a total of 7 to 8 years of specialised training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). This includes:
Neurosurgical trainees must pass several critical examinations and courses, including:
Upon successful completion of all training requirements, including the Fellowship examination, doctors are awarded the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Neurosurgery. This is required to practice independently in New Zealand.
Relevant clinical experience is gained during training, including:
Neurosurgeons are expected to engage in continuing professional development through the RACS continuing professional development programme to maintain their skills and registration.
Proficiency in English is mandatory. 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.
In addition to registration with the MCNZ, neurosurgeons must adhere to the standards and codes of conduct established by RACS and other relevant professional bodies.
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).
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
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
As an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will work in a supportive and collaborative environment, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to provide high-quality, patient-centred care for conditions affecting the face, mouth, and jaws.
We value innovation and professional growth, encouraging ongoing learning and leadership development as you refine your expertise in surgical techniques and contribute to improving patient outcomes.
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:
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are responsible for identifying diseases, deformities, and injuries affecting the face, mouth, jaws, and associated structures. They use clinical evaluations, imaging, and diagnostic tools to provide accurate diagnoses.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons perform a variety of surgeries, including:
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons manage acute injuries to the face, such as jaw fractures, orbital fractures and soft tissue injuries.
Their work focuses on both functional restoration and aesthetic outcomes.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons ensure proper healing by monitoring recovery, managing pain, and addressing complications. Surgeons also guide rehabilitation efforts, including dietary recommendations or prosthetic use when necessary.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons play an active role in educating and mentoring medical and dental students, junior doctors, and surgical trainees, ensuring the next generation of surgeons is well-trained.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons engage in clinical research to improve surgical techniques and materials, publish findings, and contribute to advancements in the field.
Surgeons follow the safety and ethical guidelines established by New Zealand's Medical and Dental Councils to ensure all procedures meet the highest standards of care and professionalism.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons must obtain both a medical degree (MBChB or equivalent) and a dental degree (BDS or equivalent) from recognised institutions. Each degree typically involves a 5 to 6-year programme.
Graduates must complete one year of internship (house officer year) to obtain general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) and the Dental Council of New Zealand. International graduates may need to pass additional exams or assessments to gain registration.
After general registration, surgeons must complete a structured specialist training programme in oral and maxillofacial surgery through the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) or an equivalent body. This training typically involves:
Trainees are required to complete examinations and certifications, including:
Upon successful completion of all training requirements, candidates must obtain a Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (FRACDS) or an equivalent qualification to practice independently in New Zealand.
During training, surgeons gain hands-on clinical experience in areas such as:
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are expected to engage in continuing professional development through RACDS or equivalent programmes to maintain their skills and registration.
Proficiency in English is mandatory. International medical graduates may need to provide proof of English language proficiency through exams like IELTS or OET unless they have completed their primary qualifications in an English-speaking country.
In addition to MCNZ and Dental Council registration, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons must adhere to the standards and codes of conduct established by RACDS and other relevant professional bodies.
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).
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
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
As an Orthopaedic Surgeon in New Zealand, you will be part of a forward-thinking and collaborative healthcare environment, working alongside multidisciplinary teams to deliver top-tier, patient-focused care for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
We are committed to fostering innovation and professional growth, providing ample opportunities for continued education and leadership development. As you refine your surgical techniques and expand your expertise, you will play a key role in advancing patient outcomes and improving the quality of life for individuals with bone, joint, and soft tissue issues.
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:
Orthopaedic Surgeons are responsible for diagnosing a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders, including bone, joint, and soft tissue injuries or diseases. They use a combination of clinical assessments, imaging techniques, and diagnostic tools to ensure accurate identification of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, or degenerative disorders.
Orthopaedic Surgeons perform a variety of complex surgeries, including:
Orthopaedic Surgeons manage acute injuries to bones, joints, and soft tissues, such as fractures, dislocations, and tendon ruptures. Their focus is on restoring function and ensuring optimal recovery while also considering long-term mobility and quality of life.
Orthopaedic Surgeons closely monitor patients during recovery, ensuring proper healing, managing pain, and addressing any complications. They guide rehabilitation efforts, including physiotherapy, pain management, and mobility restoration, and provide advice on lifestyle modifications to support recovery.
Orthopaedic Surgeons actively engage in the education and mentorship of medical students, junior doctors, and surgical trainees, ensuring the development of skilled professionals in the field. They contribute to shaping the next generation of orthopaedic specialists through hands-on teaching and knowledge-sharing.
Orthopaedic Surgeons participate in clinical research to refine surgical techniques and develop innovative treatments. They contribute to improving patient outcomes by researching new technologies, surgical approaches, and rehabilitation methods while sharing findings with the broader medical community.
Orthopaedic Surgeons adhere to the safety and ethical guidelines established by New Zealand’s medical regulatory bodies, ensuring that all procedures meet the highest standards of care. They are committed to patient safety and providing the best possible surgical outcomes through meticulous practice and professional conduct.
Orthopaedic Surgeons 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.
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.
After gaining general medical registration, doctors must complete a total of 6 years of specialised training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). This includes:
Trainees must pass several key examinations and complete essential courses during their training:
Upon successful completion of all training requirements, including the Fellowship examination, doctors are awarded the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Orthopaedic Surgery. This is required to practice independently in New Zealand.
Relevant clinical experience is gained during training and must include:
Orthopaedic surgeons are expected to engage in continuing professional development (CPD) through the RACS CPD programme to maintain their skills and registration.
Proficiency in English is mandatory. 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.
In addition to registration with the MCNZ, orthopaedic surgeons must adhere to the standards and codes of conduct established by RACS and other relevant professional bodies.
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).
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
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
As an Otolaryngology (Head and Neck) Surgeon in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care for a wide range of ear, nose, throat, and head and neck conditions.
We value innovation and professional development, supporting continuous learning and leadership growth as you hone your skills in both operative and non-operative treatments. You will play a vital role in the management of complex conditions, including head and neck cancers, disorders of the salivary and thyroid glands, hearing, balance, swallowing, speech, sleep apnoea, and aspects of facial plastic surgery, all while striving to improve patient outcomes.
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:
Otolaryngology (Head and Neck) Surgeons diagnose and manage disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. This includes both operative and non-operative treatments for conditions such as:
Otolaryngology (Head and Neck) Surgeons perform complex surgeries, including procedures for head and neck cancers (excluding the eye and brain), salivary gland surgeries, thyroid surgeries, ear surgeries, and facial reconstructive surgeries. RACS training prepares surgeons for these procedures, including advanced techniques like minimally invasive and endoscopic surgeries.
Otolaryngology (Head and Neck) Surgeons manage trauma affecting the head and neck region, including facial fractures, airway obstructions, and injuries to the ears, nose, and throat, ensuring rapid and effective treatment.
Otolaryngology (Head and Neck) Surgeons oversee patient recovery following surgery, monitoring for complications such as infections, bleeding, and airway obstructions. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including speech therapists and audiologists, to ensure the best possible recovery outcomes for patients.
Otolaryngology (Head and Neck) Surgeons contribute to the education and training of junior doctors and surgical trainees, aligning with RACS training programs. This includes providing supervision and mentorship during clinical rotations and supporting the development of future professionals in the field.
Otolaryngology (Head and Neck) Surgeons participate in ongoing professional development through RACS Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs. They are also encouraged to engage in clinical research, contributing to advancements in techniques and improving patient care outcomes.
Otolaryngology (Head and Neck) Surgeons adhere to the standards and guidelines established by MCNZ and RACS, ensuring all surgical interventions and patient care practices meet the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and professionalism.
International medical graduates may need additional exams for MCNZ registration.
Six years of training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), including:
Exams and required courses include:
Continuing professional development through RACS to maintain certification and expertise.
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).
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
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
As a Paediatric Surgeon in New Zealand, you will be part of a collaborative and supportive healthcare environment, working alongside multidisciplinary teams to deliver specialised surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents.
We prioritise innovation and professional growth, encouraging continuous learning and leadership development. In this role, you will manage a diverse range of paediatric conditions, including congenital abnormalities, gastrointestinal disorders, oncology, and trauma. Your expertise in both operative and non-operative treatments will play a crucial role in enhancing patient outcomes and advancing paediatric surgical 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:
Paediatric Surgeons diagnose and manage surgical conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. This includes both operative and non-operative treatments for congenital anomalies, gastrointestinal disorders, paediatric oncology, trauma, and urological conditions.
Paediatric Surgeons perform complex surgeries, including:
RACS training equips surgeons with advanced techniques, including minimally invasive and laparoscopic surgery.
Paediatric Surgeons manage paediatric trauma, addressing critical conditions such as abdominal injuries, chest trauma, and congenital airway obstructions, ensuring timely and specialised surgical intervention.
Paediatric Surgeons oversee patient recovery following surgery, monitoring for complications and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including paediatricians, anaesthetists, and intensive care specialists, to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Paediatric Surgeons contribute to the education and training of junior doctors and surgical trainees in alignment with RACS training programmes. They provide supervision, mentorship, and guidance to future paediatric surgical specialists.
Paediatric Surgeons engage in ongoing professional development through RACS continuing professional development programmes and contribute to clinical research, advancing surgical techniques and improving paediatric patient care.
Paediatric Surgeons adhere to the standards and guidelines set by MCNZ and RACS, ensuring that all surgical procedures meet the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and professionalism.
You must:
International medical graduates may need to pass additional examinations or assessments to achieve MCNZ registration.
The Surgical Education and Training (SET) programme for paediatric surgery is administered by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and involves:
Trainees must successfully complete various assessments, including:
Paediatric Surgeons are expected to engage in ongoing continuing professional development through RACS to maintain their certification and stay updated with advancements in the field.
International medical graduates are required to demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through tests such as IELTS or OET, unless they have completed their primary medical qualifications in an English-speaking country.
Paediatric Surgeons must maintain registration with both the MCNZ and RACS, adhering to the professional standards and codes of conduct established by these bodies.
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).
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
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
As a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in New Zealand, you will be part of a collaborative and supportive healthcare environment, working alongside multidisciplinary teams to provide specialised surgical care for patients requiring restoration, correction, or improvement of body structures. This includes addressing defects or damages present at birth or caused by injury, disease, growth or development. The scope of practice encompasses both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.
Your expertise in both operative and non-operative treatments will play a crucial role in restoring function, enhancing patient outcomes, and advancing the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
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:
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons in New Zealand are medical specialists who diagnose and treat patients requiring restoration, correction, or improvement of body structures that are defective or damaged at birth or by injury, disease, growth, or development. Roles and responsibilities may include:
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons perform a variety of surgeries, including:
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons manage acute injuries, focusing on both functional restoration and aesthetic outcomes.
They ensure proper healing by monitoring recovery, managing pain, and addressing complications. Surgeons also guide rehabilitation efforts, including scar management and functional recovery.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons play an active role in educating and mentoring medical students, junior doctors, and surgical trainees, ensuring the next generation of surgeons is well-trained.
They engage in clinical research to improve surgical techniques and materials, publish findings, and contribute to advancements in the field.
Surgeons follow the safety and ethical guidelines established by New Zealand's Medical Council to ensure all procedures meet the highest standards of care and professionalism.
You must complete:
International medical graduates may need to pass additional examinations or assessments to achieve MCNZ registration.
The plastic and reconstructive surgery Surgical Education and Training (SET) programme is administered by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), and involves:
Trainees must successfully complete various assessments, including:
Upon successful completion of the SET programme and examinations, candidates are awarded the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, which is required for independent practice.
Trainees gain extensive clinical experience in various plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures and settings, including intensive care units and research activities.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons are expected to engage in ongoing continuing professional development through RACS to maintain their certification and stay updated with advancements in the field.
International medical graduates are required to demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through tests such as IELTS or OET, unless they have completed their primary medical qualifications in an English-speaking country.
Surgeons must maintain registration with both the MCNZ and RACS, adhering to the professional standards and codes of conduct established by these bodies.
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).
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
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
As a Vascular Surgeon in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will be part of a collaborative and supportive healthcare environment, working alongside multidisciplinary teams to provide specialised surgical care for patients with vascular diseases. This includes managing conditions such as aneurysms, peripheral artery disease, and carotid artery disease, utilising both open surgical and endovascular techniques.
Your expertise in both operative and non-operative treatments will play a crucial role in restoring vascular health, enhancing patient outcomes, and advancing the field of vascular surgery. Engaging in clinical research and participating in teaching opportunities will further contribute to the development of innovative treatments and the education of future healthcare professionals.
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:
Vascular Surgeons in Aotearoa New Zealand are medical specialists who diagnose and treat patients with disorders of the blood vessels (arteries and veins outside the heart and brain) and the lymphatic system.
Vascular Surgeons perform a variety of surgeries, including:
Vascular Surgeons manage acute vascular injuries, such as traumatic arterial or venous injuries, focusing on restoring blood flow and preventing complications.
Vascular Surgeons ensure proper healing by monitoring recovery, managing pain and addressing complications. Surgeons also guide rehabilitation efforts, including lifestyle modifications and ongoing vascular health management.
Vascular Surgeons play an active role in educating and mentoring medical students, junior doctors and surgical trainees, ensuring the next generation of surgeons is well-trained.
Vascular Surgeons engage in clinical research to improve surgical techniques and materials, publish findings and contribute to advancements in the field.
Vascular Surgeons follow the safety and ethical guidelines established by New Zealand's Medical Council to ensure all procedures meet the highest standards of care and professionalism.
To become a Vascular Surgeon in Aotearoa New Zealand, the following qualifications and training are required.
You must complete a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) or an equivalent qualification from a recognised medical school. This typically involves a 5 to 6-year undergraduate medical programme.
After obtaining your medical degree, you must complete a one-year internship (house officer year) to gain general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).
Following general registration, you enter the Surgical Education and Training programme in vascular surgery, administered by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) in collaboration with the Australian and New Zealand Society for Vascular Surgery (ANZSVS). This program typically spans 5 years and includes:
Upon completing the Surgical Education and Training programme and passing all necessary examinations, you will be awarded the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Vascular Surgery, which is essential for independent practice in New Zealand.
Engage in continuing professional development activities through RACS to maintain and update your surgical skills and knowledge throughout your career.
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).
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
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
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.
