Orthoptists

• Orthoptists – Specialist roles across New Zealand
• Join a growing network delivering advanced eye care across the country
• Permanent and fixed-term orthoptist positions available in multiple regions
• Relocation support and straight-to-residence visa guidance for eligible international candidates

Bring your orthoptic skills to a health system committed to equity, innovation and compassionate care – all while embracing New Zealand’s incredible lifestyle

Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora is seeking orthoptists to join our clinical teams nationwide. Whether you prefer working in a tertiary centre with high subspecialty alignment or contributing to regional services where your role directly shapes community access to eye care, you’ll find a role that suits your clinical interests and lifestyle aspirations

About the role

Orthoptists at Health New Zealand contribute to a wide spectrum of ophthalmic care – from paediatric and adult strabismus to neuro-ophthalmology, visual field assessments, cataract pre-assessments and imaging

Your responsibilities may include the following:

• Conducting orthoptic assessments and developing tailored treatment plans for diverse patient groups
• Collaborating with ophthalmologists, optometrists and allied eye health teams
• Managing orthoptist-led clinics independently
• Supporting local or regional outreach and service integration initiatives

Roles span urban tertiary hospitals – including the largest ophthalmology department in New Zealand – and dynamic regional services like Dunedin and Canterbury, offering both breadth and depth in scope. Enjoy flexibility and varied practice in settings from Greenlane Clinical Centre to Southland services

Who we’re looking for

You should have the following:

• A recognised Orthoptics qualification (e.g. IOA or equivalent) with registration through the New Zealand Orthoptics Society (NZOSI)
• Strong orthoptic assessment and clinical skills, with at least one to two years post-registration experience
• Clear communication, cultural safety and ability to work autonomously or as part of a multidisciplinary team
• A commitment to delivering equitable, patient-centred care

International applicants are warmly invited and will receive support for registration and relocation.

Pay and benefits

• Relocation assistance and straight-to-residence visa support for eligible candidates
• Six weeks annual leave, CME/professional development support and allowances
• Flexible work options in some regions, plus access to supportive, multidisciplinary teams

Why New Zealand?

From stunning coastlines and majestic mountains to vibrant culture and exceptional outdoor access – New Zealand offers a work-life balance that’s hard to match. Here, your professional skills are valued, your well-being is prioritised and your career can flourish

Working for Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora

Te Whatu Ora is ‘the weaving of wellness’ – a national health system built on the foundations of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, equity and collaboration. Our workforce is diverse and inclusive, reflecting and serving our communities – from Māori and Pacific peoples to rainbow, disabled and rural communities

How to apply

Please click HERE to submit your application via our careers portal. We welcome flexible start dates to accommodate your relocation plans

For questions or a confidential discussion about these roles, contact the international recruitment team at: internationalrecruitmentcentre@tewhatuora.govt.nz