Radiology
Becoming a Radiologist in New Zealand offers a unique opportunity to blend a rewarding medical career with an exceptional quality of life.
Our country's healthcare system is highly regarded, providing Radiologists access to advanced technology and a collaborative, patient-focused environment.
Photo location: Abel Tasman National Park - Credit: Miles Holden
About the role
As a Radiologist in New Zealand, we invest in developing both our staff and technology, ensuring you're equipped to excel.
You will be involved in diagnosis within our dynamic interdisciplinary teams, while building your leadership skills. Embrace continuous growth and innovation in our departments, where learning on the job is supported and encouraged.
One of the best things about living and working in New Zealand is the emphasis on work-life balance - allows radiologists to enjoy 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 advancement and personal well-being.
Salary, allowances & leave
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 salary and benefits of some roles are determined by collective agreements between unions and employers. The full Senior Medical Officers collective agreement can be found on the Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora website here.
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 are a range of additional allowances for:
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on-call
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evening, night and weekend work
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call back
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job size
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recruitment and retention
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special contribution
Leave:
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6 weeks of paid annual leave
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A minimum of 10 days of sick leave per year
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10 days of paid Continuing Medical Education Leave (CME), plus the ability to use annual leave tacked onto the end of your CME travel
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6-12 months of parental leave depending on the length of service, including 6 weeks of fully paid parental leave
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12 paid public holidays + time in lieu/alternative holiday if rostered on
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Long service leave + sabbatical opportunities
Benefits & development opportunities
Additional benefits include:
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Reimbursement of your registration and practising certificate fees.
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Your professional indemnity insurance is covered by Health NZ.
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A paid continuing professional development allowance.
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An annual Continuing Medical Education (CME) allowance of NZD $16,000 (pro-rated for part-time employees)
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If eligible, up to a 6% matching superannuation contribution from Health New Zealand as your employer.
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A relocation package for international candidates.
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Access to the latest technologies and diagnostic tools, enabling Radiologists to provide a high level of quality care.
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Great balance: New Zealand is known for our work-life balance, and Radiologists can enjoy flexible hours to make the most of all the country has to offer.
Leadership and career development opportunities:
Radiologists at Health New Zealand are actively involved in the design, implementation and performance of cancer facilities and technology involved in the delivery of healthcare services to ensure an effective, efficient and safe workplace.
Opportunities can include:
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Support and encouragement for research and publications.
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Mentorship opportunities for apprentice Junior Doctors/Registrars.
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Regional and National networks allow for subspeciality research and practice.
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Ongoing development and support for career growth with on-the-job coaching and a variety of in-house training programmes.
Roles & responsibilities
In New Zealand, Radiologists primarily specialise in Diagnostic Radiology, with some Interventional Radiologists as well.
Diagnostic Radiologists
Primarily focussed on imaging interpretation and patient assessment to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, their primary responsibilities include:
Diagnostic Imaging
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Interpret various medical images, including X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and PET scans, to diagnose diseases, injuries, and other conditions.
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Accurate image reading is crucial for guiding treatment decisions and informing clinical care.
Patient Assessment
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Review patient history and consult with other medical professionals to determine appropriate imaging studies.
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Ensure that each imaging procedure is safe and suitable for the patient’s specific condition.
Collaborative Consultation
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Work closely with multidisciplinary teams, providing expert opinions on imaging results to aid in diagnosis and treatment.
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Participate in case discussions, offering insights that help inform complex medical decisions.
Quality Assurance and Safety
- Ensure high standards for imaging quality and safety. This includes calibrating equipment, implementing radiation protection protocols, and following best practices to minimise patient risk.
Education and Mentorship
- Contribute to the training of radiology residents, medical students, and healthcare professionals by delivering lectures, overseeing clinical training, and mentoring junior staff.
Research and Continuing Education
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Participate in clinical research to advance diagnostic imaging practices and improve patient care.
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Engage in continuous learning to stay updated on the latest imaging technologies and protocols.
Interventional Radiologists
Specialising in minimally invasive procedures guided by imaging technology, and providing therapeutic interventions often as alternatives to open surgery, their primary responsibilities include:
Interventional Procedures
- Perform image-guided procedures, such as biopsies, drainages, and the insertion of catheters, stents, or other medical devices. These minimally invasive treatments provide therapeutic options for patients and often reduce recovery time compared to traditional surgeries.
Patient Care and Procedure Preparation
- Review patient histories and assess whether interventional radiology is the best option. Explain procedures to patients, address their concerns, and obtain informed consent.
Collaborative Consultation
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Consult with referring doctors to determine the best approach for each case.
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Work closely with surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists to integrate interventional procedures into comprehensive care plans.
Safety and Quality Standards
- Maintain stringent safety protocols for interventional procedures. This includes ensuring equipment is correctly calibrated, minimising radiation exposure, and following sterile techniques to prevent infection.
Training and Mentoring
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Educate and train healthcare professionals, radiology residents, and students in interventional radiology techniques.
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Provide hands-on training and guidance in procedural and patient management skills.
Research and Development
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Engage in clinical research to advance interventional radiology practices, improve procedural techniques, and enhance patient outcomes.
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Stay informed on emerging interventional methods and innovations.
Both Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologists need to partake in:
Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
- All Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora employees are expected to have an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) and be committed to implementing the principles within professional practice
Administrative Duties
- Including managing radiology departments, developing policies, and implementing new technologies. Both diagnostic and interventional radiologists share a commitment to maintaining high standards in patient safety, quality of care, and continuous professional development.
Required qualifications & experience
Medical Qualification:
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You must hold a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB); or
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an overseas qualification that is assessed as equivalent to New Zealand standards by the MCNZ.
Registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ):
To apply for Vocational Registration in Radiology, you need either:
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the Fellowship with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) qualification; or
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an international postgraduate medical qualification in Radiology, where your combination of qualifications, training and experience will be assessed against the standard of the FRANZCR.
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More information on international medical graduates' registration pathways can be found in the 'Information for international candidates' section.
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Annual Practising Certificate (APC):
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To practice as a Radiologist you must hold a valid Annual Practising Certificate (APC) with the MCNZ which is renewed annually.
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To maintain the APC, you must:
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Provide evidence of ongoing competence.
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Demonstrate participation in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities.
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Desired experience:
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Solid experience of general and emergency imaging is preferable, but not essential.
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A subspecialist area of Nuclear Medicine is also welcomed.
Beginning your career
To become a Diagnostic Radiologist, you will need to:
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complete the Health Sciences First Year programme at the University of Otago or the first year of either the Bachelor of Health Sciences or Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science at the University of Auckland; and then
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complete a five-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree at Otago or Auckland University; and then
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work for two years as a house officer (supervised junior doctor) in a hospital; and then
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complete another six years as a registrar with specialist training and examinations to become a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists.
Information for international candidates
Registering to work as a Radiologist in New Zealand:
To work as a Radiologist in New Zealand you will need to obtain Vocational Registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).
Pathways to Vocational Registration include:
1. Direct Pathway to Vocational Registration:
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If you are an International Medical Graduate (IMG) with specialist qualifications from countries with medical systems deemed equivalent to New Zealand’s (e.g., Australia, the UK, the USA, Canada, or some European countries), you may be eligible to apply directly for vocational registration without needing to first obtain general registration.
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In this pathway, the Medical Council of New Zealand (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 (such as Radiology).
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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.
2. Provisional Vocational Registration Pathway
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If the 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.
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This means you’ll practice in your specialty under supervision for a period, typically between 6-12 months, before being granted full vocational registration.
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During this provisional Vocational Registration period, a specialist who practises in the same area of medicine as you will supervise you.
3. General Registration Pathway
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Some IMGs who do not meet the criteria for direct vocational registration may first need to obtain general registration if their qualifications and experience are not recognized as equivalent.
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This process to gain Vocational Registration includes:
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A period of Provisional General Registration (with supervised practice) if necessary.
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After obtaining General Registration, they can later apply for Vocational Registration once they have completed any further assessments or additional supervised practice required by the MCNZ.
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Internationally qualified candidates
Titles may vary depending on the specific role, responsibilities, and the country in which the Radiologist is practising, however some alternative titles internationally coyld include
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Consultant Radiologist
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Interventional Radiologist
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Medical Imaging Specialist
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Radiology Consultant
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Diagnostic Imaging Consultant
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Radiology Physician
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Imaging Consultant
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Radiology Specialist
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Clinical Radiologist
Our Application Process
Looking to move to New Zealand to work as a Radiologist?
Great news! Radiologists (SMOs) are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List which means you are eligible for a fast-tracked Straight to Residence Visa. This means you and your family can apply for New Zealand residency before you arrive, provided you have a job offer from an accredited employer, like us!
Working at Health New Zealand
'Te Whatu Ora' translates from our indigenous Māori language to 'the weaving of wellness'; which is what we are all about in our holistic delivery of world-class care for the health and wellbeing of the 5 million Kiwis in our communities.
Health New Zealand has an open and non-hierarchical approach to improving outcomes for our patients. Our cross-disciplinary collaborative way of working fosters a positive work environment where all members of our team feel supported and empowered.
Our commitment to you
We are dedicated to building a team that is representative of the communities that we are serving. We are committed to supporting health equity in our communities. Our kaimahi (staff) thrives on the diversity and inclusion of all perspectives and cultures, and we welcome individuals from all backgrounds and lived experiences.
Health New Zealand has programmes and facilities available to both protect and improve our teams’ physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing. We know that you do your best work when you’re feeling your best, so it’s important to us that this is a priority.
Explore Aotearoa
New Zealand - Aotearoa has been in the top 5 countries in the Global Peace Index every year since it launched in 2009 and has a broad range of places to call home, from the bustling metropolis of our main centres, to the easy-going vibe of our coastal or rural communities.
Find out more information about what part of our beautiful country is the best fit for you.
Te Tai Tokerau Northland
Population: 194,600
Northland is a beautiful and diverse region of Aotearoa, New Zealand with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in water sports, historic sites, natural beauty or ancient Kauri trees—Northland has it all!
Waitematā
Population: 650,000
Waitematā is the largest and one of the most rapidly growing Districts serving the largest population of all Health New Zealand. Waitematā offers a balanced lifestyle that combines the convenience of city living with the natural beauty and community spirit of suburban life.
Te Toka Tumai Auckland
Population: 500,000
Auckland the "City of Sails" is Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest city and commercial hub. It’s where metropolitan sophistication meets breathtaking natural beauty. Auckland is filled with a variety of warm and welcoming communities, packed with new places to explore.
Counties Manukau
Population: 500,000
Counties Manukau is a vibrant place where there's never a dull moment! Living and working here ensures you're always close to amenities, events and nature. You'll never run out of places to visit or things to do.
Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty
Population: 255,110
The Bay of Plenty is a place of beautiful harbours, long surf beaches and an easygoing lifestyle. We showcase the perfect place to explore a wide range of nature-based pursuits – this gives the people of the Bay of Plenty the chance for a better work-life balance.
Waikato
Population: 425,000
The Waikato region is known for its natural beauty, rich Māori culture, and agricultural heritage with something to offer visitors of all interests.
Tairāwhiti Gisborne
Population: 48,000
In family-friendly Tairāwhiti you will experience an easier pace to life that allows you to pause, reflect, and enjoy a true work-life balance. Gisborne’s relative isolation is its charm, surrounded by beaches & nature - don't worry though! Larger cities are only a quick flight away.
Lakes
Population: 110,000
The Lakes District is well known for its geothermal activity and natural hot springs. The area is located in the central North Island and is home to many geothermal attractions, such as geysers, hot mud pools, and steam vents. Visitors can also relax in the region's natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties.
Taranaki
Population: 130,000
Taranaki is a magical place with a majestic mountain at its heart, including the rugged coastline that's world-renowned for its surf. Its residents' love of art and culture, cafes and outdoor living mean it's also fantastic to work—and play!
Te Matau a Māui Hawke's Bay
Population: 180,000
Known for its world-class wineries, stunning beaches and temperate climate, Hawke’s Bay boasts a lifestyle that is unmatched. The region is a popular destination for food and wine tourism, hiking, cycling and cultural events such as the annual Art Deco festival.
Whanganui
Population: 65,000
Whanganui has something for everyone. Our centrally located region offers access to outdoor activities such as kayaking, skiing, surfing, tramping, cycling, fishing and hunting. Nestled between two snow-capped mountains, on the banks of Whanganui River there is always plenty to do and explore.
Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley
Population: 445,000
Wellington, the capital city of Aotearoa New Zealand, is a bustling and diverse hub of culture and cosmopolitanism, renowned for its lively cafés, restaurants, and internationally acclaimed sporting and cultural events, all set against the stunning backdrop of a natural harbour. To the north of Wellington lie the regions of Porirua, Kapiti, and Hutt Valley.
Te Pae Hauora o Ruahine o Tararua MidCentral
Population: 190,000
Get the best of both worlds - the perfect blend of rural and city living with the mountains, city and sea at your fingertips.
Wairarapa
Population: 48,000
From rugged coastlines, boutique vineyards to lush forests, Wairarapa is a slice of paradise for those who love the outdoors and seek a peaceful environment to recharge after a rewarding day's work.
Nelson Marlborough
Population: 150,000
Nelson Marlborough has been dubbed the artistic capital with a thriving urban centre and one of New Zealand's sunniest regions.
Te Tai o Poutini West Coast
Population: 32,000
Te Tai o Poutini/West Coast has views of both the mountain ranges and the ocean! It is an untamed natural wilderness of beautiful rivers and rainforests, glaciers and geological treasures.
Waitaha Canterbury
Population: 600,000
The Canterbury region is a great place to live and work due to its natural beauty, vibrant economy, cultural diversity, strong community, and high quality of life.
South Canterbury
Population: 62,000
The South Canterbury District is an area of stunning beauty with great lifestyle opportunities, a safe and welcoming family-friendly environment, affordable living, excellent educational opportunities and a wide range of cultural and sporting facilities.
Southern
Population: 350,000
Well known for its beautiful natural scenery, which includes towering mountains, stunning fjords, majestic glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. The region is also famous for its friendly communities, charming towns, and vibrant cities such as Dunedin and Invercargill.
Photo location: Auckland - Credit: Matthew Crawford |
Webinar: Registration for Senior Medical Officers
Health New Zealand’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 New Zealand - Aotearoa.
Learn more about moving to our beautiful country, directly from the people who process your applications.
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Moving to New Zealand - Aotearoa is a fantastic opportunity and a big step, we're here for you! Our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and support throughout your journey, so don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.