Vitreoretinal (VR) Fellow | 2027


Vitreoretinal (VR) Fellow – Christchurch Hospital
Christchurch | Fixed-Term, Full-time Commencing May 2027

Kia hiwa rā! Kia hiwa! | Seize the opportunity!

This is an outstanding opportunity to join the prestigious Canterbury Eye Service Fellowship programme in Christchurch; a region celebrated for its lifestyle, culture, and proximity to some of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural landscapes.

This Fellowship offers advanced subspecialty training in vitreoretinal surgery and medical retina within a tertiary referral service, regular theatre exposure, and strong support for research and professional development. You will join a collegial, well-resourced department committed to clinical excellence, teaching, and innovation.

As a Fellow, your remuneration and conditions align with the ASMS Senior Medical and Dental Officers Collective Agreement, recognising your experience and expertise. You will also benefit from a generous Continuing Medical Education (CME) allowance and active encouragement to participate in research.

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

As the Vitreoretinal (VR) Fellow with the Canterbury Eye Service, you will gain extensive hands-on experience in vitreoretinal surgery, medical retina, acute retinal presentations, and management of complex posterior segment disease. This is an excellent opportunity to further develop advanced surgical and clinical expertise within a high-volume tertiary referral centre.

You will work closely with experienced Consultants and multidisciplinary teams in a service that values teaching, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The Fellowship also provides opportunities to contribute to trainee supervision, quality improvement initiatives, and research activity.

Please click here to view the position description.

About the Team / Service / Location

The Canterbury Eye Department is a large, friendly, and highly supportive service based at Christchurch Hospital. Our team includes 13 Consultants alongside skilled nurses, orthoptists, optometrists, and ophthalmology assistants. The service is known for its collaborative culture, strong teaching ethos, and commitment to clinical excellence.

Christchurch offers an exceptional work-life balance, with easy access to alpine adventures, coastal escapes, vibrant cafés, and cultural experiences.

About You

As a Vitreoretinal (VR) Fellow, you will bring:

  • Eligibility for registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand
  • Advanced ophthalmology training with an interest in vitreoretinal subspecialty practice
  • Previous experience in retinal surgery and/or medical retina
  • Demonstrated commitment to patient-centred care
  • Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary environment
  • Interest in teaching, service development, and research

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 community. 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
Amy.Walker@tewahtuora.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert.

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

Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai! | Welcome — we look forward to your application. 

Apply now

Fixed Term/Contract/Full Time

Job no: PC4161396

Location: Christchurch

Closing Date: Wednesday, 3 June 2026