New Zealand's healthcare system employs over 20,000 registered doctors serving a population of 5.2 million across diverse geographic regions. Despite steady growth in medical training and international recruitment, the country faces a shortage of approximately 1,800 doctors, with demand particularly acute in rural communities and specific specialties.
The New Zealand healthcare system operates on a predominantly public model, with the Ministry of Health overseeing 20 District Health Boards (DHBs) that provide comprehensive healthcare services. This creates opportunities for doctors across hospital medicine, general practice, and community health services throughout both North and South Islands.
Key Context: International Medical Graduates (IMGs) comprise 41.7% of New Zealand's medical workforce, demonstrating the country's commitment to global talent recruitment and the opportunities available for overseas-trained doctors.
Registered doctors
Unfilled positions
Annual increase
Overseas trained
Key Insights:
- • 26% of doctors are in their 40s, representing the largest active cohort
- • 39% of the workforce is over 50, indicating upcoming retirement opportunities
- • 10% are under 30, showing healthy pipeline of new graduates
- • Balanced age distribution supports workforce stability and mentorship
Distribution Analysis
Auckland dominates New Zealand's medical workforce with 36% of all doctors, reflecting its status as the largest population center. However, Otago shows the highest doctor-to-population ratio at 4.8 per 1,000 residents, largely due to the University of Otago Medical School. Rural regions like West Coast face critical shortages, creating exceptional opportunities for doctors willing to work in smaller communities.
Career Opportunity: Regions marked "Critical" or "Very High" demand offer excellent prospects for rapid employment, higher remuneration, and diverse clinical experience.