Otolaryngologist – Head & Neck Surgeon Fixed Term

Otolaryngologist – Head & Neck Surgeon

Christchurch Hospital, Ōtautahi | Fixed Term, Full Time position starting 24/01/2026 to 20/07/2026. 

Shape the future of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck care in Canterbury.
Join a passionate, highly skilled team providing tertiary-level specialist care to our communities.

At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, we are committed to Pae Ora – Healthy Futures for all. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant service while living in a region known for its vibrant city life, outdoor adventure, and rich cultural heritage.

About the Role

As an Otolaryngology Head & Neck Senior Medical Officer (SMO), you will provide high-quality specialist care across outpatient clinics, inpatient services, acute on-call, and planned theatre sessions within a tertiary teaching environment.

This is a varied and stimulating role that includes outpatient assessment and management of new and follow-up patients, participation in multidisciplinary meetings, teaching across multiple disciplines, and contributing to service development and clinical leadership. You will also supervise and support Registrars, Fellows, and other clinical staff as part of your commitment to high-quality training and education.

You will join a service committed to best practice, continuous improvement, and equitable, patient-centred care across Te Waipounamu.

About the Team / Service / Location

Our Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery team at Christchurch Hospital is a collaborative, supportive, and expert group providing acute and elective ORL services to the Canterbury region and beyond. As part of a busy tertiary centre, you will work alongside experienced surgeons, clinical fellows, registrars, nurses, and allied health professionals, all committed to delivering high-quality patient outcomes.

Ōtautahi Christchurch offers an enviable lifestyle with easy access to beaches, mountains, cycling and running trails, and a thriving arts and food scene.

About You

You will be an engaging, collaborative clinician with a commitment to clinical excellence, teaching, and improving outcomes for our diverse communities. You will bring:

• Vocational registration (or eligibility) in Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery with the Medical Council of New Zealand
• Demonstrated expertise in general Otolaryngology, with post-fellowship Head & Neck training
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively across disciplines
• Commitment to cultural responsiveness, equity, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles
• Experience in teaching and supervision of trainees and students within a tertiary setting

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to delivering equitable, high-quality health services for all people living in Aotearoa. We value a workforce that reflects our diverse communities and welcome applications from Māori, Pasifika, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

Click Apply Now to submit your application. All applications must be received via our online careers portal.

For further information about this role, please contact: Recruitment Partner, Amy.Walker@Tewhatuora.govt.nz

We will be reviewing applications as they are received and may progress with suitable candidates before the closing date.

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