Public Health Medicine Specialist

• Contribute to transforming the future of health in a rewarding role focused on making a difference and leading change
• Permanent, full time opportunity
• Location: Waikato /Taupō

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is the country's largest employer, delivering universal public healthcare to 5 million New Zealanders.

We provide essential hospital, specialist, and community health services across 80+ locations — from large urban centres to rural towns and remote communities.

Our goal is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders by delivering equitable, accessible and innovative care.

About the Role

As a Public Health Medicine Specialist, you will lead the delivery of public health services, collaborate with NPHS and wider health system colleagues to ensure high-quality public health work, and fulfil the responsibilities of a designated Medical Officer of Health. You will offer expert advice to support a cohesive, effective and equitable health system, aiming for improved population health outcomes including communicable disease management with a manaaki-focus and environmental health protection.

This is a permanent, full-time senior role in the Te Manawa Taki region. Candidates will largely need to be in Waikato/Taupō however you do not need to be based in Taupō. You will contribute to Te Manawa Taki's regional context as part of NPHS. The appointee will undertake their specialist/public health responsibilities and conduct themselves in all matters relating to their employment in accordance with best practice and the relevant ethical and professional standards and guidelines as determined by: Relevant College or Faculty of Public Health Medicine Health and Disability Commissioner

We welcome applications from registrars who are nearing completion of training.

About the Team/Service/ Location

The National Public Health Service (NPHS) within Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora, work towards Pae Ora (healthy futures) for all by engaging with the wider determinants that impact people's health, focusing on oranga/wellbeing, prevention, protection, and population-level intervention. We are connected across boundaries to deliver public health services that are nationally planned, regionally delivered and locally tailored.

About you

As a Public Health Medicine Specialist, you understand the importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and are skilled in applying its principles effectively in your role. You build and maintain positive relationships at all levels, enhancing the quality and contributions of individuals and teams to achieve the organisation's vision and goals. Driven and accountable, you are committed to continuously improving your leadership practice.

• Relevant graduate (and post-graduate) qualifications – Extensive clinical experience and expertise in public health medicine, with appropriate tertiary level professional qualification
• Be a registered medical practitioner with a current Annual Practising Certificate and vocational registration as a specialist medical practitioner in a relevant speciality (FNZCPHM, FAFPHM) or are near to meeting requirements for vocational registration or designation
• Must meet the requirements for designation as a Medical Officer of Health
• Extensive specialised experience normally gained through professional qualifications and significant post graduate experience
• Previous public sector and health sector experience
• Demonstrated ability to work in complex organisations and with diverse stakeholders
• Significant experience delivering on programmes of work in a complex environment
• Significant experience developing, implementing, and integrating strategic plans and change

Working for 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 service 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 by Sunday, 11 January 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Anesha Pillayat

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

Due to the December holiday period, this advert will remain open for an extended duration. Screening and interviews will commence after the advert closes. We appreciate your patience and look forward to connecting with you in the new year.