Head Medical is seeking post-foundation doctors (PGY3+) with experience in General Surgery for an exciting Relief Doctor opportunity in the Hawke’s Bay region of New Zealand.
This is an excellent opportunity for doctors looking to broaden their surgical experience, develop procedural and clinical confidence, and gain international experience within the New Zealand health system.
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General Surgery relief role with broad exposure to acute and inpatient surgical care
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Assessment and management of acute surgical referrals, admissions, and re-admissions
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Experience in peri-operative management and ongoing inpatient care
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Ideal for doctors wanting to consolidate their surgical skills or explore future surgical training pathways
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Based in the beautiful Hawke’s Bay region, renowned for its beaches, vineyards, and outdoor lifestyle
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NZD $105,029 – $134,830, depending on experience
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12-month contract - commencing February 2027
The Role
You will join the General Surgery team at one of New Zealand’s largest provincial hospitals, with approximately 400 beds and responsibility for providing secondary-level care to a population of more than 160,000 people. The hospital provides a broad range of medical and surgical specialties on site, excluding cardiothoracic surgery and neurosurgery, with established links to surrounding rural and community services.
The General Surgery department comprises:
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9 General Surgeons
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3 Urologists
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14 Registrars
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8 House Officers
As a Relief Doctor in General Surgery, you will work as part of the wider surgical team, providing clinical cover and contributing to the assessment, management, and ongoing care of surgical patients. The role provides broad exposure to acute surgical presentations, inpatient management, peri-operative care and surgical referrals, within a supportive multidisciplinary environment.
This would suit a doctor who already has a foundation of surgical experience and is looking to build confidence and competence while experiencing clinical practice in New Zealand.
Location
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You will be based in Hastings, a vibrant coastal city on New Zealand’s North Island, with the option to live in either Hastings or nearby Napier.
Hawke’s Bay offers a strong balance of professional development and lifestyle:
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Affordable housing and excellent schooling options
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Stunning coastline, beaches, and outdoor lifestyle opportunities
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World-renowned wineries, food scene, cafés, and restaurants
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Cycling trails, hiking, water sports, and golf courses on your doorstep
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A warm, sunny climate with a strong community feel
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Easy connections to Auckland and Wellington via regular flights
Learn more about the Hawke’s Bay region here
What Head Medical can do for you
Head Medical is a specialist international healthcare recruitment company and has been helping doctors relocate to Australia, New Zealand and beyond since 2008. From identifying the right opportunity through to regulatory applications and relocation, we provide free guidance and support throughout the process. We also have qualified and licensed Immigration Advisers within our team who can assist with migration planning and visa applications for Australia and New Zealand. The services of our licensed Immigration Advisers are provided as an additional service, with any applicable fees discussed in advance.