RMO Annual Recruitment 2026 | West Coast

About Us
The West Coast of the South Island is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most breathtaking and untamed regions. Stretching from Karamea in the north to Haast in the south, this rugged and remote locality covers an immense geographic area, yet serves a small, close-knit population of just 32,500. Providing healthcare in this unique environment is both a challenge and an opportunity—and our team has fully embraced the Rural Generalist Model to ensure equitable, high-quality care for our community.

As a member of our dynamic, multidisciplinary team, you’ll gain unparalleled experience across rural hospital and community-based services. We provide a truly generalist training environment, where you’ll work across primary care, urgent care, emergency medicine, general medicine, paediatrics, orthopaedics, and obstetrics/gynaecology. We’re accredited for Rural Hospital Medicine and General Practice Training, along with training terms for ED and ACCRM. Our small RMO team includes 13 placements across RHM Registrars, Senior House Officers, and PGY2 Community-Based Attachments from Canterbury.

What You’ll Be Part Of

• A Truly Generalist Experience – Comprehensive clinical exposure across disciplines in both hospital and community settings.
• Supportive Training & Supervision – Learn from SMOs, RHM Fellows, GPs, and FACEMs who are passionate about mentoring and supporting your growth.
• A Multi-Disciplinary Approach – Work closely with in-house specialists (obstetrics/gynaecology, general surgery), and access tertiary expertise via our ‘TransAlpine’ partnerships.
• Hands-On Learning – Develop your practical skills through weekly tutorials, simulation sessions, and active participation in 777 and trauma responses with our resus team.
• Tailored Career Development – Flexible pathways to suit your rural career goals, with exposure to anaesthetics, specialist skills, transalpine clinics, and GP-RHM dual training options.

Why Choose the West Coast?

• A New Era in Rural Medicine – Be part of Te Nīkau Hospital and Health Centre, our state-of-the-art facility opened in 2020. We’re leading innovation as one of the first regions rolling out localities under Te Whatu Ora.
• Adventure On Your Doorstep – Whether it’s tramping through ancient rainforests, surfing wild coastlines, biking rugged trails, or kayaking pristine rivers—bring your boots, board, bike, and paddle. You’ll need them all.
• A Close-Knit, Community-Focused Team – Make a real difference to the lives of West Coasters while being part of a supportive, collegial team.
• Live and Train in a Unique Rural Setting – Gain skills that will set you apart as a leader in rural health.

What’s in it for You?

• Outstanding teaching and supervision from experienced SMOs
• Extensive hands-on exposure and clinical decision-making
• A lifestyle that balances work, learning, and adventure
• A family-friendly community with excellent schools and facilities

Skills & Experience

• Completion of PGY2 or higher
• Eligibility for general or provisional general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand. Check your eligibility here.

How to Apply
If you meet the above criteria and are ready for a career-defining experience, click “Apply Now.” Applications will only be accepted online.

Please submit:

• An electronic copy of your CV and a cover letter
• Contact details for three referees

For more information, contact:
Barbara.Cook@wcdhb.health.nz