Registered Nurse - Operating Theatres

Te Whatu Ora; Hamilton; On-site; NZD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Te Whatu Ora invites applications from registered nurses with orthopaedic operating theatre experience to join Waikato Hospital. This role offers exposure to a broad range of procedures in a fast-paced environment within the Theatres and Anaesthesia department.

We seek 3–5 years post‑registration experience in orthopaedic theatres, strong instrument knowledge, and a commitment to infection control and patient safety. Permanent, full‑time position with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years post-registration experience in orthopaedic theatre nursing.
• Strong understanding of orthopaedic instruments, equipment and surgical protocols.
• Knowledge of infection prevention and sterile techniques in an operating theatre.
• Commitment to patient safety, quality, and evidence-based practice.

Skills

Orthopaedic nursing

Infection control

Surgical instruments

Patient safety

Job description

• Unique opportunity to work across a diverse range of theatres, tackling exciting and complex cases

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.

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate, registered nurse with primarily orthopaedic operating theatre experience to join our vibrant, fast-paced team. As the largest hospital campus in New Zealand and a leading tertiary hospital, Waikato Hospital is the regional hub for the Midlands area. This dynamic environment is ideal for those eager to make a meaningful impact while advancing their careers.

As one of the regions leading trauma centres, Waikato Hospitals Orthopaedics Theatre provides life‑saving care to both emergency and planned care patients including those flown in from all over Te Manawa Taki. This is your opportunity to work within a fast‑paced, dynamic setting that will challenge you, inspire you, and help you grow every single day.

About the Team/Service

The Theatres and Anaesthesia department at Waikato Hospital is comprised of 24 operating theatres, a Post‑Anaesthetic Care Unit and Day of Surgery Admission Unit. A wide range of surgical specialties include Orthopaedics, General Surgery, Vascular, Cardiac, Urology, Neurosurgery, Ophthalmology, ENT, Plastics, Paediatrics, Delivery Suite, Gynaecology, Maxillofacial and more.

About Hamilton

Waikato Hospital is a major regional hospital in Hamilton and is a leading tertiary teaching hospital located in Hamilton, New Zealand, serving as the regional hub for the Midland area, which includes the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Lakes, Tairawhiti, and Taranaki districts. With around 722 inpatient beds, 22 operating theatres, and a dedicated outpatient clinic and procedure centre, Waikato Hospital provides comprehensive hospital services, including radiology, laboratory, and pharmacy. As a major teaching hospital with affiliations to the University of Auckland, University of Waikato, and Wintec, it offers a dynamic learning environment and access to research opportunities. The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities located on the Waiora Waikato Hospital Campus, with both road and air ambulance support.

Hamilton, where Waikato Hospital is situated, is a vibrant city nestled alongside the scenic Waikato River, offering a perfect mix of nature and culture. Explore the stunning Hamilton Gardens, home to themed gardens from Italy to Asia, or visit the Waikato Museum to delve into the region's rich history. The city also boasts the Hamilton Zoo, where you can walk through an aviary filled with native birds. Hamilton is a lively hub, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, along with events like rugby, cricket, and the famous National Agricultural Fieldays and Balloons over Waikato festival. With its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures, Hamilton is an ideal place to live and work.

About you

We are looking for someone who has:

• Minimum of 3-5 years post-registration experience in orthopaedic theatre nursing
• Strong understanding of orthopaedic instruments, equipment and surgical protocols
• Demonstrated knowledge of infection prevention and sterile techniques in an operating theatre
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of patient safety, quality, and evidence-based practice

Working at 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.

All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11:59 pm on Monday, 23 November 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Kendra Corey at [e-mail]

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert.

Job details

Job Reference:

Job Reference: WAI32765

Location:

North Island - Waikato - Hamilton

Job type:

Job type: Permanent Full time

Expertise:

Clinical - Nursing - Operating Rooms / Theatres