Anaesthesia Sho (2026 Rmo Training Year)

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.

Start date: 2 February 2026

This position is part of RMO Annual Recruitment Cycle, current vacancies are advertised separately.

About the Role

Palmerston North hospital has the perfect opportunity to start your Anaesthetic career. No prior experience required.

We offer the appropriate candidate an excellent environment to grow their confidence and independence in their anaesthetic practice as well as teaching new skills. As a teaching hospital we provide specialist services in Upper GI, ENT, urology and oncology, bringing a range of complex surgeries, with a wide range of obstetric and paediatric caseloads.

We have a group of consultants interested in difficult airway management with innovative techniques. Regional anaesthesia is encouraged in our practice with most anaesthetists proficient in ultrasound-guided nerve blocks. There is a regular CPEX and multidisciplinary high-risk peri-operative clinic for consultants with an interest and experience in assessment and optimisation of higher risk patients and procedures.

There are currently nine (9) theatres, two (2) procedure rooms and a cardiac lab.

The Team

There are 8-9 Anaesthetic Registrars working a shift roster. Please note that there are usually 2 introductory Anaesthesia SHO position that do not partake in covering the after-hours roster until training requirements are met as set out by ANZCA.

We highly value the role of SHOs in our department and we work hard to provide the environment and opportunities to the individual trainee to maximise their development. Palmerston North Hospital is part of the Central NZ Anaesthesia training, and the successful applicant would likely complete the first full 2 years of their ANZCA training in Palmerston North before rotating to Wellington Hospitals.

The first 2 years in Palmerston North are set out so the applicant can achieve all the requirements of Introductory and Basic training. The department has 24 full-time consultant Anaesthetists. We are a supportive and collegial department with regular social events.

Visit our careers site here for more information about Palmerston North hospital.

Benefits

• An encouraging learning environment where you will continue to grow.
• A professional and supportive culture and team setting.
• Fulfilling and challenging work with great lifestyle options
• Tailored wellness programmes

About us

Palmerston North Regional Hospital is the premier healthcare institution in the MidCentral Region. With a dedicated Intensive Care Unit, Coronary Care Unit, and Regional Cancer Treatment Service, as well as one of the largest trauma centres nationwide, Palmerston North Hospital provides industry leading specialised care and emergency treatment to the MidCentral region.

As a teaching hospital affiliated with New Zealand medical schools, we unite exceptional healthcare practice with modern education and research. MidCentral is an excellent place to begin or continue your professional career in an engaging and supportive environment.

MidCentral region is ideally situated for all lifestyles – Striking scenery with multiple hiking & biking tracks with beaches, ski fields and wineries close by as well as excellent schools and tertiary institutions. The perfect blend of rural and city living.

About you

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand or be eligible for general or provisional general registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand. You can check your eligibility for registration by visiting the Council's website at www.mcnz.org.nz
• Completed PGY2 year or equivalent.
• A keen passion for Anaesthetics

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | The 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.

In the interests of protecting our people and our patients, all appointments will be subject to:

• Occupational Health Assessment
• Some positions are defined as a Core Children's worker under the Children's Act and require full safety checks completed before employment commences. (Police Vetting)

How to apply

Click “APPLY NOW.”

For further information about this role please reach out to:

Dr Sathish Shanmuganathan - Anaesthetist or Dr Yan Chuah - Anaesthetist

Lindy Chivell - RMO Recruiter

Discover more hidden gems that Manawatū and Palmerston North have to offer here: Manawatū & Palmerston North - Visit | Live | Study | Business (manawatunz.co.nz).