Medical Officer – Intensive Care Unit (ICU)


Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch
Fixed Term | Full Time (2 Years preferred)

  • Three full-time fixed-term opportunities available
  • Preferred commencement dates: 1 x late  2026, 2 x early 2027
  • Join one of New Zealand's largest tertiary Intensive Care Units and gain broad experience in a collaborative, supportive environment.

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 three enthusiastic Medical Officers to join the Intensive Care Unit at Christchurch Hospital for fixed-term appointments of two years.

These positions offer an exceptional opportunity to work within a busy tertiary referral ICU, providing care to critically ill adult and paediatric patients from across the South Island. You will be part of a highly skilled multidisciplinary team managing a diverse case mix including trauma, cardiothoracic, neurosurgical, medical, surgical and complex specialty patients. There is an aeromedical retrieval component to this role.

Working alongside Intensive Care Specialists, Registrars, Nursing staff and Allied Health professionals, you will be actively involved in the assessment, management and ongoing care of critically ill patients. You will be expected to supervise registrar/junior staff, and will have ready access to consultant back up, This role provides an excellent environment for doctors looking to further develop their acute care, procedural and critical care skills while contributing to high-quality patient outcomes.

About the Team / Service / Location

Christchurch Hospital is the largest tertiary teaching hospital in the South Island and provides specialist services to a population of more than 700,000 people.

The Intensive Care Unit is a modern, high-acuity service delivering comprehensive critical care across a broad range of specialties. As part of Health New Zealand's Canterbury Waitaha region, the ICU has a strong reputation for clinical excellence, education, research and innovation.

Outside of work, Christchurch offers an outstanding lifestyle. Known as New Zealand's Garden City, Christchurch combines vibrant cafés, restaurants and cultural attractions with easy access to beaches, ski fields, mountain biking, hiking and the stunning Southern Alps all within a short drive.

About You

To be successful in this role you will have:

  • Eligibility for registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand
  • At least four years of postgraduate clinical experience (or equivalent), including at least 12 months of ICU experience.
  • Previous experience in acute care, emergency medicine, anaesthesia, ICU or other relevant specialties is highly desirable.
  • Airway management/competence skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a collaborative approach to multidisciplinary care
  • A commitment to providing safe, high-quality, patient-centred care
  • A willingness to participate in rostered shifts, including evenings, nights and weekends

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.

For further information about the role, please contact the Recruitment Specialist, Amy.Walker@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the recruitment process may commence before the closing date.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.

Apply now

Fixed Term/Contract/Full Time

Job no: PC4400829

Location: Christchurch

Closing Date: Tuesday, 18 August 2026