Consultant General Medicine Physician- Thames Hospital

New Zealand Government; Thames; On-site; NZD 180,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Thames Hospital is seeking a motivated physician to join our general medical team, delivering inpatient and outpatient care to a community of around 50,000 residents. The role involves mentoring trainees and collaborating with a diverse team to maintain high-quality clinical services.

You will work within a teaching-oriented environment with strong commitments to professional development, CME, and service improvement, incorporating telehealth input where appropriate.

Qualifications

• Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians or equivalent qualifications.
• Eligible for vocational registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Provide broad general medical inpatient and outpatient care.
• Supervise and mentor Senior House Officers and registrars in Rural Hospital Medicine and General & Acute Care Medicine.
• Support and participate in telehealth and teaching activities within the service.

Education

Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians

Fellow of the Division of Rural Hospital Medicine

International Medical Specialist with equivalent qualifications

Job description

About the Role

Thames Hospital is seeking a motivated and versatile physician to join our dynamic medical team. Nestled in one of New Zealand's most picturesque regions, this role offers the perfect blend of professional challenge and lifestyle balance.

Youll become part of a close-knit team of five consultants delivering high-quality inpatient and outpatient general medical care to a community of approximately 50,000 permanent residents. Our physicians also supervise and mentor Senior House Officers and registrars from the Rural Hospital Medicine and General & Acute Care Medicine training programmes.

What We Offer

• A supportive, collegial environment with a strong focus on teaching and collaboration.
• 1:4 to 1:5 on‑call roster, structured around a three‑week rotating cycle of ward responsibilities.
• Protected non‑clinical time and built‑in off‑the‑ward weeks for annual leave, CME, and personal development.
• Flexible FTE options, including the ability to work less than 1.0 FTE by adjusting ward weeks across the year.

About the Team / Service

Thames Hospital is a 50‑bed secondary care facility providing a broad spectrum of services to the local community, including emergency care, inpatient medical and surgical services, day surgery, infusion therapy, rehabilitation, maternity care, and low‑acuity mental health support. As a rural hospital, Thames works closely with Waikato Hospital, approximately 90 minutes away, for subspecialty services and tertiary referrals. The hospital operates 24‑hour laboratory and radiology services, including CT imaging, ensuring timely diagnostics and continuity of care.

Thames is an accredited teaching site, hosting 5th and 6th‑year medical students from the University of Auckland, PGY2 House Officers, and registrars training in Rural Hospital Medicine and General and Acute Care Medicine. The team is actively engaged in clinical education, supported by a structured RMO teaching programme, regular CME sessions, and a strong commitment to quality improvement.

Telehealth is increasingly integrated into clinical practice, enhancing access for specialist input for inpatient care, outpatient consultations, and acute services such as stroke thrombolysis.

About Thames

Thames is a well‑established town in the Coromandel region, known for its historical significance and natural surroundings. The area reflects a mix of colonial architecture, Māori heritage, and its gold‑mining past. It has an active arts community and a strong local identity. Nature is never far away; the Coromandel Ranges and Kauaeranga Valley offer immediate access to hiking trails, swimming holes, and campsites ideal for those seeking renewal in the outdoors. Thames also serves as the gateway to the Hauraki Rail Trail, a scenic cycling route. With cafés, boutique shops, and a welcoming community, Thames offers a lifestyle that balances professional purpose with personal wellbeing.

About You

Applications are invited from Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, Fellows of the Division of Rural Hospital Medicine, or International Medical Specialists with equivalent qualifications, training and experience. Candidates must be eligible for vocational registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand.

EEO Statement

We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.