Forensic Psychiatrist | Part time or Full Time
Consultant Psychiatrist – Forensic Mental Health | Christchurch, Canterbury
Permanent Full-time (part-time considered)
- Join a well-established regional forensic mental health service with a supportive and highly experienced multidisciplinary team
- Opportunity for psychiatrists with or without forensic experience – supervision and development provided
- Enjoy an exceptional work-life balance in Christchurch with access to mountains, beaches, outdoor adventures and a vibrant city lifestyle
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.
About the Role
We are seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist to join the Canterbury Regional Forensic Mental Health Service in Christchurch. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a collaborative and well-supported environment where clinical expertise is highly valued and professional growth is encouraged.
As a Consultant Psychiatrist, you will work alongside five experienced Forensic Psychiatrists within a multidisciplinary team, providing specialist assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across a range of settings including inpatient services, community settings, Courts, and Corrections.
This role offers genuine variety and complexity, with opportunities to provide clinical leadership, contribute to service development, participate in teaching and supervision, and support quality improvement initiatives. For psychiatrists interested in broadening their scope of practice, previous forensic experience is desirable but not essential. Comprehensive support and supervision are available, including guidance around forensic practice, Court work, and legal processes.
The Power of the Ripple Effect: Forensic Psychiatry in NZ | Health New Zealand
About the Team / Service / Location
The Canterbury Regional Forensic Mental Health Service provides specialist forensic mental health services to a population of approximately 700,000 people across the South Island.
The service includes a comprehensive range of treatment settings including medium secure and rehabilitation inpatient facilities at Hillmorton Hospital, community-based services, and strong partnerships with Courts, Probation, Department of Corrections and outreach teams.
The regional service also provides consultation and liaison support across Nelson Marlborough, the West Coast and South Canterbury. The service includes secure and rehabilitation units providing 35 inpatient beds and a highly supported community service focused on successful transition and recovery pathways.
Christchurch offers an enviable lifestyle with a unique combination of city convenience and outdoor adventure. Whether you enjoy skiing, mountain biking, beaches, hiking, food, wine or family activities, Canterbury offers something for everyone.
A recent locum Consultant Psychiatrist shared:
"The service is well-resourced with highly capable multidisciplinary teams who work hard to support both our clients and each other. The level of support and resourcing creates a safe environment, and psychiatrist input is genuinely valued."
About You
As a Consultant Psychiatrist, you will bring:
- Vocational registration (or eligibility for registration) with the Medical Council of New Zealand in Psychiatry
- Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (or equivalent specialist qualification)
- Experience working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams
- Commitment to high-quality patient-centred care and clinical leadership
- Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its application within healthcare practice
- Previous forensic psychiatry experience is advantageous but not essential
Working at Health New Zealand
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and serve our communities. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.
How to Apply
To apply please click “Apply Now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact:
Amy Walker – Recruitment Specialist
Email: Amy.Walker@tewhatuora.govt.nz
We will review applications as received and may proceed with
the recruitment process prior to the closing date.
Permanent, Permanent/Full Time, Permanent/Part Time
Job no: 2430265
Location: Christchurch
Closing Date: Apply Now!