Pathology
Are you ready to Make a Difference Somewhere Different?
We're looking for Pathologists to join us in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Can we fast-track your registration?
From November 1, 2024, overseas doctors with approved specialist qualifications from the UK, Ireland, and Australia can apply for fast-track registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand, under the scopes of General Practice, Psychiatry, Dermatology, Emergency Medicine, Anaesthesia, Internal Medicine and Pathology. Registration applications will be fast-tracked and processed within 20 working days, allowing specialised Senior Medical Officers to start working in New Zealand - Aotearoa much faster.
Work as a Pathologist in New Zealand
Roles for Pathologists across many specialties are in demand throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand right now.
One of the best things about living and working in New Zealand - Aotearoa are the opportunities to experience nature, outdoor adventure and vibrant cities so close to where you live and work.
Our Pathologists usually work in laboratories in urban centres, though increasingly laboratories may be part of a network across a region. Some Pathologists also see patients and are involved directly in the day-to-day delivery of patient care.
Work is usually during business hours with some rostered-on-call commitments outside these times which means you can truly experience the lifestyle and everything New Zealand - Aotearoa has to offer you.
Pathologists are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List which means you are eligible for a fast-tracked Straight to Residence Visa and can apply for New Zealand residency before you arrive, provided you have a job offer from an accredited employer, like us!
Photo location: Nelson - Credit: Miles Holden
Salary, allowances & leave
Pathologists 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
Required qualifications and experience
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To work in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will need a medical degree registerable with the New Zealand Medical Council (MCNZ) and pathology training equivalent to the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia (RCPA) allowing you to be eligible for vocational registration in your area of pathology. |
Training and development
Continuing medical education (CME) funds and leave is available to meet the requirements of the RCPA Continuing Professional Development programme.
Roles and responsibilities
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Internationally qualified candidates
You will require an assessment of your medical degree and specialist training by the MCNZ and RCPA.
In New Zealand, pathology has the following areas of activity. These relate to either the methods used or the types of disease which they investigate:
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Anatomical Pathologist
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Chemical Pathologist
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Forensic Pathologist
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Genetic Pathologist
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Haematologist
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Immunopathologist
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Microbiologist
Alternate titles globally
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Histopathologist
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Microbiologist
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Clinical Biochemist
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Cellular pathology
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Clinical Pathologist
Begin your career
Pathology underpins every aspect of medicine, from diagnostic testing and monitoring of chronic diseases to cutting-edge genetic research and blood transfusion technologies; Pathology is integral to the diagnosis of every cancer.
Doctors usually train broadly in medicine before undertaking a 5-year structured training programme in their chosen area of pathology, cumulating in Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Pathologists (RCPA) and vocational registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).
- complete a medical degree recognised by the Medical Council of New Zealand
- work for two years as a house officer in a hospital
- complete a further five years of specialist training and examinations in your chosen speciality to become a Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia
- optionally, a further one or two years of specialist training and examinations to become a Joint Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
Career and Lifestyle Match
Want to know more about our beautiful Districts? Or, are you ready to choose your preferred locations?
Apply for Registration
As an overseas qualified Pathologist, you will need to gain registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand. See which pathway for registration is best based on your country of origin and qualifications.
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Photo location: Wānaka - Credit: Alistair Guthrie |
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 easygoing 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.
Our Application Process
We'd love to help, reach out to us!
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.