Category: Blog

Why New Zealand Offers One of the Best Lifestyles in the World for Doctors

The 2026 Global Peace Index ranks New Zealand as the second most peaceful country in the world, reinforcing its reputation as one of the best places globally to live, work and raise a family. For doctors considering a move overseas, this ranking highlights something many healthcare professionals are actively seeking: a safe, stable environment combined with exceptional lifestyle opportunities and rewarding career prospects.

The report assesses 163 countries using indicators including societal safety and security, levels of conflict and militarisation. The rankings place New Zealand among the safest and most stable nations globally.

At a time when global uncertainty continues to dominate headlines, many doctors are placing greater value on security, stability and a positive environment in which to raise their families. New Zealand consistently performs well across these measures and remains one of the world’s most desirable places to live.

A Lifestyle That Prioritises Balance

One of the most common themes we hear from doctors who relocate to New Zealand is the improvement in their work-life balance.

While every role is different, many GPs find they have more opportunity to enjoy life outside of work. Whether that’s spending weekends exploring national parks, enjoying coastal living, participating in outdoor activities or simply having more quality time with family, New Zealand’s lifestyle is often cited as one of its greatest attractions.

For doctors coming from busy healthcare systems, the chance to live and work in a country known for its relaxed pace of life can be transformative.

A Great Place to Raise a Family

Relocating overseas is rarely just about the doctor. Partners, children and extended family considerations often play a significant role in the decision-making process.

New Zealand’s reputation for safety, strong communities and excellent quality of life makes it particularly appealing for families. Smaller commute times, access to outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community all contribute to a lifestyle that many relocating doctors value highly.

The country’s peaceful environment is reflected in international rankings year after year, reinforcing its reputation as one of the best places in the world to build a future.

Career Opportunities Across New Zealand

Alongside the lifestyle benefits, New Zealand continues to offer excellent opportunities for General Practitioners and other healthcare professionals.

Many regions are actively seeking experienced doctors, creating opportunities to work in supportive practices while enjoying a lifestyle that can be difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Whether you are interested in city living, coastal communities or regional locations, New Zealand offers a diverse range of professional opportunities combined with an exceptional quality of life.

Considering a Move to New Zealand?

At Transition Medical, we support doctors throughout every stage of their relocation journey. From identifying suitable opportunities and securing employment to navigating registration requirements and relocation logistics, our team is here to help make the process as straightforward as possible.

If you’re exploring GP opportunities in New Zealand and would like to learn more about the lifestyle, career prospects and relocation process, get in touch with our team today.

Source: Vision of Humanity

 

Further Reading

Medical Registration Process for New Zealand

What do GPs earn in NZ?

How UK and Irish Consultant can register with the MCNZ

From Fellowship Aspirations to RACGP Success

Making the move to Australia as a GP is about much more than finding the right job. It’s about navigating a new healthcare system, understanding complex registration requirements, settling into a new community and planning for your long-term career progression.

For Aish and Rajesh, their Australian journey has been one of professional achievement, personal growth and ultimately, Fellowship success.

We were delighted to receive the wonderful news that both Aish and Rajesh were awarded their RACGP Fellowship at the end of April, a significant milestone that reflects their dedication, hard work and commitment to general practice in Australia.

Finding the Right Opportunity

When Aish and Rajesh first approached Transition Medical, they were looking for more than just job placements. They wanted roles that aligned with their professional goals, lifestyle preferences and long-term career aspirations.

Our team worked closely with them to understand exactly what they were looking for and helped shortlist opportunities that met their requirements. From initial discussions through to securing their positions, the focus was on ensuring the move was the right fit for both doctors.

Since relocating to Australia, they have experienced first-hand how a career can evolve in ways they hadn’t initially anticipated. Within the first few months of joining their practice, the clinic transitioned from private billing to fully bulk billing. Reflecting on the change, Rajesh believes it was the right decision for the Warnbro community and has embraced a different approach to practising medicine

“I’ve evolved into someone who is happy seeing fewer patients and spending more quality time looking after them. My appointments fill each day and I’m happy with the billing. Reasonable, stable income and providing good patient care is what matters to me”

Their experience highlights that moving to Australia is about more than financial opportunities alone; it’s also about finding a professional environment and lifestyle that allows doctors to practise medicine in a way that aligns with their values.

Support Beyond Recruitment

Relocating internationally can be a complex process, particularly when it comes to registration, visas, contracts and onboarding requirements.

Throughout their journey, our team provided ongoing guidance through the administrative and regulatory processes, helping them navigate paperwork requirements and manage unexpected challenges, including IT-related delays that affected parts of their application process.

As Aish and Rajesh settled into life in Australia, our support continued. Whether discussing contractual questions or billing changes, we remained available to provide advice and assistance whenever needed.

Planning for Fellowship Success

One aspect of Aish and Rajesh’s journey that proved particularly valuable was staying informed about Fellowship pathways and opportunities available to internationally trained doctors.

By keeping them updated on developments relating to the expedited Fellowship pathways, they were able to make informed decisions about their career progression and plan effectively for their future within Australian general practice.

Today, both doctors have successfully achieved RACGP Fellowship, opening up further opportunities and flexibility within their careers.

A Word from Aish and Rajesh

“We cannot recommend Emma and Kirsty from Transition Medical highly enough. From start to finish, they went above and beyond to help us shortlist and secure jobs in Australia that were perfectly aligned with our requests.

Throughout the entire process, they provided exceptional support—guiding us through the complex paperwork, patiently helping during IT updates causing delays and always being just a message away whenever we had concerns. Their support didn’t stop after we arrived in Australia; they continued to assist us with our queries with regards to billing changes and their contractual impact.

What truly set them apart was their proactive approach to keep us updated on Fellowship opportunities via the expedited pathway, which made a significant difference in our career planning and progression.

Emma and Kirsty are not just efficient recruiters; they are genuine, reliable and compassionate professionals who truly care about the doctors they support. If you are considering a move to Australia, Transition Medical is the partner you want by your side.”

Achieving RACGP Fellowship is a fantastic accomplishment and one that reflects years of dedication to patient care and professional development.  We are incredibly proud to have been part of Aish and Rajesh’s Australian journey and look forward to seeing what the future holds for them as Fellows of the RACGP.

If you’re considering making the move to Australia and would like support from a team that understands every stage of the process, we’d love to help

Further Reading

Why Australasia Is an Increasingly Attractive Option for Doctors Right Now

Australian GP Salary Guide

Faster Registration Pathways Opening Doors for International Doctors

The Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) has recently announced significant improvements to registration processing times for international doctors, making it quicker and easier for many doctors to begin practising in New Zealand.

We know that registration timelines are often one of the biggest considerations for doctors planning a move abroad, so these latest updates are really positive news for international medical graduates (IMGs), particularly GPs and specialists considering a move to New Zealand.

Faster Registration Timeframes

According to MCNZ CEO Joan Simeon, the Council has been working closely with medical colleges to improve processing times while continuing to maintain New Zealand’s high clinical standards.

The latest figures show:

• 93% of all registration applications are now processed within 20 working days
• Most vocational (specialist) registration applications are now completed within approximately three months
• Fast-track specialist pathway applications can be processed within 20 working days
• Fast-track GP applications from the USA, Canada and Singapore are being processed in around six weeks

A major factor behind these improvements has been the move towards paper-based assessments for vocational registration where possible, helping reduce the need for additional interviews and streamlining the overall process.

What This Means for Doctors Considering New Zealand

For international doctors, faster processing times can make a huge difference when planning a relocation. It also benefits hospitals and practices looking to recruit, creating a smoother process for everyone involved.

These improvements help provide:

• Greater certainty around timelines
• Faster starts for new roles
• Reduced delays with visas and relocation planning
• Less disruption for families moving overseas
• Smoother onboarding for healthcare employers and practices

Growth Across New Zealand’s Medical Workforce

The latest workforce data from MCNZ also highlights continued growth across the profession.

As of March 2026:

• New Zealand has more than 21,000 registered doctors
• Women now make up just over 50% of practising doctors in New Zealand for the first time

This marks an important milestone and reflects the changing face of medicine in New Zealand, as well as the significant contribution women continue to make across all areas of healthcare.

Why More Doctors Are Choosing New Zealand

We continue to speak with doctors who are drawn to New Zealand for a number of reasons, including:

• Better work-life balance
• More flexible working opportunities
• Supportive healthcare environments
• Excellent outdoor lifestyle
• Family-friendly communities
• Competitive earning potential

Combined with improved registration pathways, New Zealand is becoming an increasingly appealing option for international doctors looking for a fresh start.

Thinking About Making the Move?

We support doctors throughout the entire relocation process, including registration guidance, visa support and contract negotiations.

If you are considering opportunities in New Zealand, our team would be happy to talk you through the current pathways and help you better understand your options.

From the UK to New Zealand

For many overseas-trained GPs, New Zealand offers something increasingly difficult to find elsewhere, a combination of manageable workloads, outdoor lifestyle, and genuine work-life balance.

After hearing positive recommendations from close friends who had already made the move a few years earlier, this GP decided to explore the opportunity for themselves.

Now settled in New Zealand, they describe the experience as both professionally rewarding and personally refreshing.

Taking the Leap to New Zealand

Like many international relocations, the decision initially came from conversations with others who had already experienced the move firsthand.

“I used New Zealand-based recommendations from very close friends who moved to New Zealand a couple of years ago.”

Hearing directly from doctors already living and working in New Zealand helped provide reassurance about both the process and the lifestyle waiting on the other side.

Once the decision was made to begin exploring opportunities, support throughout the relocation process became a major factor.

Finding the Right Support

Throughout the journey, the support from the recruitment and relocation team played an important role in helping make the move feel manageable.

“My experience with the team was amazing. Emma, Kirsty, and Nicola have been really helpful.”

From the initial conversations through to document preparation and relocation logistics, regular communication helped create confidence throughout the process.

“You could always easily keep in touch with them and they kept updating the progress of the documents.”

For international doctors navigating registration paperwork, visas, and clinic placement, having consistent support can significantly reduce stress and uncertainty.

“Since the initial meeting to my move here, they were very helpful. I would recommend them to anybody.”

Life in New Zealand

Since arriving, the lifestyle has quickly become one of the biggest highlights of the move.

“New Zealand is a nice place to live. There are loads of things to do, outdoor activities, and an amazing environment.”

Known for its natural scenery, beaches, hiking, and slower pace of life, New Zealand continues to attract international doctors seeking greater balance outside of medicine.

“The beaches and the hikes are stunning.”

The accessibility of outdoor activities and nature has made settling into everyday life both enjoyable and rewarding.

A Different Pace of General Practice

Professionally, one of the biggest differences has been the pace and workload within general practice compared to the UK.

“Work-wise, 12-patient sessions is a reasonable amount compared to the workload in the UK.”

For many UK GPs, the opportunity to work at a more sustainable pace is one of the major attractions of relocating internationally.

With fewer patients squeezed into sessions, doctors often report having more time for patient care, reduced administrative pressure, and a healthier balance between work and life outside the clinic.

Conclusion

This GP’s journey from the UK to New Zealand reflects why increasing numbers of international doctors are considering opportunities abroad.

Between supportive relocation guidance, manageable workloads, and access to an outdoor-focused lifestyle, the move has delivered both professional and personal benefits.

For GPs considering New Zealand, stories like this highlight how the right support and preparation can make the transition far smoother — and how rewarding life on the other side can be.

Further Reading

From Ireland to Perth: An Irish GPs move to Australia

Talking with a UK Trained Rural GP working in rural Australia

Relocating from Ireland to Australia as a GP

A new pace of life, new professional opportunities, and a smoother workday.  For Dr Ciara, the move from Ireland to Western Australia has already delivered exactly what she was hoping for.

Having arrived in Perth just eight weeks ago, Ciara is settling into both the lifestyle and professional flexibility that continue to attract Irish GPs to Australia.

“Life here is very easy-going — it’s amazing. Great food, great weather, lots for small kids to do, and there’s no shortage of beautiful places.”

Now working in general practice in Perth, Ciara is enjoying a different rhythm of medicine while also taking the opportunity to expand her clinical skills in areas that interested her long before making the move.

Why Australia?

Like many Irish-trained GPs considering Australia, the decision wasn’t driven by a single factor. Lifestyle played a major role, but so did the professional opportunities available within Australian general practice.

“There are lots of opportunities here. I’m taking the time to get experience in a few areas.”

One area in particular quickly stood out after arriving in Western Australia.

“There’s a much higher incidence of skin cancer here, so I’m taking the time to learn dermoscopy and hopefully branch into minor surgery down the line as well.”

For many international GPs, Australia offers the chance to broaden procedural and clinical scope in ways that can be more difficult within other healthcare systems.

A Different Style of GP Work

Now working three days a week from 8am to 4pm, Ciara says one of the biggest adjustments has been the overall pace and structure of the workday.

Her clinic schedule includes a four-hour morning session, a three-hour afternoon session, and a substantial break in between, something she describes as a major shift from the intensity of Irish general practice.

“One of the biggest differences between Ireland and Australia is that I’m generally able to manage paperwork and results within session times.”

Rather than needing to arrive early or stay late to process admin and follow up results, many tasks are integrated directly into billable patient care.

“Either booking a phone call, which you can bill Medicare for, or seeing a patient face-to-face removes the need to be in before or after sessions flying through paperwork and sorting results.”

That change alone has made day-to-day practice feel significantly less pressured.

“I would say the workday as a GP is significantly less intense than it is at home.”

Flexibility and Autonomy

Another major difference Ciara noticed is the flexibility Australian general practice offers.

She currently works with 20-minute appointments, seeing three patients per hour, but notes that appointment structures vary widely depending on the doctor’s preferred style of practice.

“There’s great flexibility in terms of what you want to do. There are GPs in the practice doing 10-minute appointments and others doing longer appointments,  the choice is there.”

That flexibility also extends into the business structure of Australian general practice.

“In Australia, as a GP you are self-employed, and there are pros and cons to that.”

While self-employment means managing superannuation and not having access to traditional sick pay, Ciara says it also creates greater control over both work-life balance and income.

“It gives you a much greater understanding of where your income is coming from.”

For GPs considering a temporary move before potentially returning to Ireland or the UK, she believes the experience provides valuable insight into the business side of medicine.

Learning Medicare and Billing

Like many international doctors transitioning into Australia, understanding Medicare and billing systems required an adjustment period.

“There’s definitely a learning curve understanding Medicare and billing, but the practice generally guides you through that.”

While different from the Irish healthcare system, Ciara found the support within the clinic environment made the transition manageable.

Finding the Right Support

Ciara relocated to Australia with the support of Transition Medical after receiving a recommendation from another GP who had recently made the move.

“That proved to be a great recommendation because I found them very personalised and very warm.”

After an initial conversation discussing her goals and the type of clinic she was looking for with Emma, a shortlist of suitable practices was arranged.

“They worked very closely with me all the way along.”

Following informal interviews with a number of clinics, Ciara accepted a role with the practice she now works in.

“They’re very experienced in the area and seem to have a huge amount of contacts on the ground in Australia and New Zealand.”

Navigating the Expedited Pathway

Ciara relocated via the Expedited Specialist Pathway, which she describes as quicker and less paperwork-heavy than previous pathways.

“I used the expedited pathway, which was a little less arduous in terms of paperwork and a bit quicker than the previous one.”

Even with the streamlined process, she says relocating internationally remains a significant undertaking.

“It was great to have Kirsty by my side helping with everything all along.”

Importantly, the support didn’t stop once she arrived in Australia.

“The team  also gave ongoing support once I was out here, checking in and making sure everything was in working order.”

Settling into Perth Life

Only two months into life in Perth, Ciara already feels the move has delivered the balance she was looking for.

Between the outdoor lifestyle, family-friendly environment, and reduced day-to-day pressure within clinical work, the transition has been overwhelmingly positive.

For Irish GPs considering a similar move, her advice is simple:

“If you’re thinking about making the move, I would have no hesitation in recommending the Transition Medical team .”

Conclusion

Ciara’s journey from Ireland to Perth reflects a growing trend among international GPs seeking greater flexibility, broader clinical opportunities, and a more sustainable pace of practice.

While the process of relocating can feel daunting initially, the combination of professional support, structured pathways, and lifestyle benefits continues to make Australia an attractive option for doctors considering the move.

Now settled in Western Australia, expanding her procedural skills, and enjoying a more balanced working life, Ciara’s story highlights what’s possible for GPs ready to explore a new chapter abroad.

Understand key differences, lifestyle benefits, and how Transition Medical supports your move.

New Zealand continues to attract Anaesthetists from the UK who are looking for professional satisfaction, high-quality clinical work, and a different pace of life outside the hospital. While the two systems share many similarities, there are important differences worth understanding before making the move.

Drawing on experience across both systems, here’s an honest look at how anaesthesia training, work structure, and lifestyle in New Zealand compares with the United Kingdom.

Training Pathways: Familiar, but Structured Differently

Anaesthetic training pathways in New Zealand and the UK are broadly comparable in terms of standards, scope of practice, and clinical responsibility. Many UK-trained anaesthetists find the transition relatively smooth from a clinical perspective.

However, there are structural differences. Exam formats and progression requirements differ slightly, with New Zealand placing a stronger emphasis on volume of practice and compressed training timelines. While training may be shorter overall, it can be more intense.

A key contrast lies in continuity. In the UK, trainees navigate Core Training and repeated national recruitment rounds. In New Zealand, once a training post is secured, there is generally a clearer, more stable pathway through to completion. This continuity can be a welcome change for doctors used to frequent relocations and constant reapplication.

One notable difference is job planning. In New Zealand, many anaesthetists work on a four-week templated roster rather than a weekly cycle. This longer planning horizon allows for greater variety in case mix and responsibilities, while still retaining predictable elements. Many doctors find this balance of structure and diversity refreshing.

Work–Life Balance

The difference lies in how work fits into life overall. Clinical days tend to be more efficient, with less pressure to continuously build a CV through research, audits, and extracurricular commitments that often spill into evenings and weekends in the UK. Many Anaesthetists find they can focus more fully on clinical development without the same background noise of constant portfolio-building.

What truly changes the equation is life beyond work.

Even after a long shift, the environment encourages decompression — sunshine, access to nature, and a culture that values time outdoors. Whether it’s paddleboarding after work, trail running at the weekend, or simply spending time outside, many doctors find these opportunities make a tangible difference to wellbeing.

The quality of life outside medicine is often what ultimately “tilts the balance” for anaesthetists who choose to stay long term.

Cultural Practice and Patient Population

New Zealand’s patient population is highly diverse, particularly in major centres. Working in a multicultural environment is both professionally and personally enriching, offering daily opportunities to learn from patients and colleagues of many different backgrounds.

Healthcare in Aotearoa New Zealand is also shaped by a strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. For many UK-trained doctors, this represents a meaningful learning journey, one that deepens understanding of cultural safety, equity, and partnership in healthcare delivery.

Final Thoughts

Anaesthetist roles in New Zealand offer challenging, rewarding work within a healthcare system that values high clinical standards and continuity of care. For many UK anaesthetists, the appeal lies in how that work is supported: clearer pathways, efficient working practices, and a lifestyle that allows space to recharge outside the hospital.

Understanding these differences early is key to making a confident, well-informed decision. That’s where the right guidance matters. At Transition Medical, we work closely with UK-trained anaesthetists to provide honest insight into roles, training pathways, and what life in New Zealand really looks like  from your first conversation through to relocation and beyond.

With the right preparation and support, a move to New Zealand can be both professionally fulfilling and personally rewarding — and our role is to help you navigate that transition with clarity and confidence.

Why Hawke’s Bay Appeals to Overseas GPs

For GPs considering a move to New Zealand, Hawke’s Bay offers something many doctors are searching for: more time outdoors, shorter commutes, a welcoming community and a genuinely relaxed pace of life — without sacrificing career opportunities or lifestyle amenities.

Located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Hawke’s Bay is made up of the vibrant twin cities of Napier and Hastings, alongside charming coastal towns, vineyards and rural communities. Known for its warm climate, Art Deco architecture and world-class wineries, the region has become increasingly popular with international doctors looking to escape the pressures of city life and achieve a healthier work-life balance.

Why GPs are Choosing Hawke’s Bay

One of the biggest attractions for overseas doctors is lifestyle. Hawke’s Bay enjoys more than 2,000 hours of sunshine each year and is known for its Mediterranean-style climate. The region is famous for its vineyards, food scene, beaches and outdoor living, making it easy to enjoy your downtime outside of work. ()

For many UK-trained GPs, the appeal is simple: less stress, more space and more time with family.

Commutes are short, often under 20 minutes, and many doctors find they can finish work and still have time for an evening walk, a surf, a winery lunch or a bike ride along the region’s extensive cycle trails. Hawke’s Bay has more than 200km of off-road cycling paths connecting wineries, cafes and coastal areas.

The region also has a strong sense of community, with many overseas doctors commenting on how welcoming and supportive local teams are. In online discussions, UK doctors who relocated to Hawke’s Bay frequently describe the lifestyle as “more chill”, with a noticeably better work-life balance compared to larger cities.

Napier and Hastings: Two Cities, One Lifestyle

Napier and Hastings sit only around 20 minutes apart, giving doctors flexibility when choosing where to live.

Napier

Napier is internationally recognised for its Art Deco architecture, rebuilt in the 1930s following a major earthquake. The city has a coastal feel, with cafes, restaurants and waterfront walks creating a relaxed atmosphere. It’s particularly popular with those wanting to live near the ocean while still having access to schools, shopping and healthcare facilities. ()

Hastings

Hastings offers a slightly more rural and family-oriented feel, sitting closer to vineyards, orchards and farmland. The city has undergone significant revitalisation in recent years, with excellent eateries, breweries and local markets adding to its appeal. ()

Many GPs choose to live in nearby Havelock North — an affluent village-style suburb known for boutique cafes, wineries and access to Te Mata Peak, one of the region’s most iconic walking spots.

A Region Built for Outdoor Living

If you enjoy the outdoors, Hawke’s Bay delivers year-round opportunities to stay active.

The region is surrounded by beaches, hiking trails and countryside, with popular activities including:

• Surfing and paddleboarding
• Mountain biking and road cycling
• Hiking in the Ruahine and Kaweka ranges
• Coastal walks and beach days
• Vineyard tours and wine tasting
• Farmers’ markets and food festivals

Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest wine region and home to more than 200 vineyards and 100 wineries. Wine lovers are particularly drawn to the region’s Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet blends, with cellar doors and vineyard restaurants spread throughout the area. ()

Popular wineries include Craggy Range, Mission Estate, Te Mata Estate and Elephant Hill, many of which are set against stunning coastal or mountain backdrops. ()

What About Cost of Living?

Compared with Auckland or Wellington, Hawke’s Bay generally offers more affordable housing and a lower-pressure lifestyle. Many overseas doctors report having more disposable income and a better quality of life overall.

Like much of New Zealand, groceries can be expensive, but lower commuting costs, less traffic and competitive GP salaries often help offset this.

Housing tends to offer more space than many UK properties, and family-friendly suburbs are easy to access from both hospitals and GP clinics.

Working as a GP in Hawke’s Bay

The region has a consistent demand for GPs, particularly in community and rural healthcare settings. Practices often offer supportive onboarding for international doctors, flexible working arrangements and opportunities to develop specialist interests.

Many overseas-trained GPs also comment on the collegial working environment and the strong relationships built within smaller healthcare communities.

For doctors relocating with families, Hawke’s Bay also offers excellent schools, outdoor-focused living and a safe, community-driven environment that appeals to many expats.

Is Hawke’s Bay Right for You?

Hawke’s Bay may not suit everyone. If you thrive on big-city nightlife, major shopping districts and constant activity, the slower pace may feel like an adjustment.

But for GPs looking for sunshine, outdoor living, strong communities and a healthier balance between work and life, Hawke’s Bay is hard to beat.

Whether it’s cycling between vineyards on the weekend, enjoying a morning coffee overlooking the ocean or finishing work in time to pick the kids up from school, Hawke’s Bay offers the kind of lifestyle many doctors move to New Zealand to find.

Current Vacancies in Hawkes Bay

GP Job Hawkes Bay- Flexible Working 

GP Job Hawkes Bay – See 3 patients an hour 

GP Job Hawkes Bay – Excellent Relocation Package

What the Ongoing GP Shortage Means for Doctors Considering NZ

New Zealand’s healthcare system continues to face a significant shortage of general practitioners (GPs), and all signs suggest that demand for skilled doctors will remain strong for years to come. For overseas-trained doctors,  the opportunities within primary care are substantial, particularly in rural and regional communities.

Healthcare workforce data released by Health New Zealand highlights the scale of the issue. Current estimates show New Zealand already has a shortage of GPs, and projections suggest this gap could widen considerably over the next decade. Health NZ’s workforce modelling estimates a potential GP shortage of more than 25% by 2033 if current trends continue.

Several factors are driving this demand:

• Population growth and ageing demographics
• Increasing rates of chronic illness
• Rising patient expectations and healthcare complexity
• GP retirements outpacing new entrants to the profession
• Ongoing workforce burnout across primary care

The pressure is especially visible in smaller towns and rural regions, where many clinics struggle to recruit and retain permanent doctors.

Rural and Regional Communities Need Doctors

Recent investment initiatives aimed at supporting rural GPs including new training funding and expanded community-based pathways reinforce how critical primary care has become to the wider health system.

For doctors considering relocation, rural practice in New Zealand can offer:

• Competitive salaries and incentives
• Greater clinical variety and autonomy
• Strong community connection
• Better work-life balance compared with larger hospital systems
• Pathways to residency for eligible overseas-trained doctors

Government and Industry Are Trying to Expand the Workforce

New Zealand continues to rely heavily on international medical graduates to help fill workforce gaps. According to the Medical Council of New Zealand, overseas-trained doctors remain a crucial part of the healthcare workforce.

Across the country, many clinics have closed their books to new patients or extended wait times for appointments due to workforce shortages. Reports from both industry organisations and media outlets continue to highlight growing access issues in primary care. For doctors, it creates long-term career security.

Why New Zealand Remains Attractive for GPs

Despite the workforce challenges, New Zealand continues to attract doctors from overseas because of its lifestyle, healthcare system, and career opportunities.

GPs relocating to New Zealand are often drawn by:

• A strong emphasis on work-life balance
• Modern primary care environments
• Diverse patient populations
• Opportunities in both urban and rural settings
• Access to outdoor lifestyle and family-friendly communities

For many doctors, New Zealand offers the chance to build a meaningful long-term career while enjoying a high quality of life.

Conclusion

The demand for GPs in New Zealand is not a short-term trend,  it is a long-term workforce challenge that continues to shape the country’s healthcare landscape. With an ageing population, increasing healthcare needs, and ongoing shortages across primary care, skilled doctors remain in high demand throughout the country.

For internationally trained GPs, New Zealand represents a market with strong career opportunities, meaningful work, and the chance to make a genuine impact in communities that need healthcare professionals the most.

Further reading

A visual timeline for moving to NZ

Relocation to NZ – Breakdown of Costs

Australia’s GP Shortage: The 2026 Reality Check

Australia’s General Practitioner  shortage remains a major issue in 2026. Despite significant government investment, expanded training pathways, and continued international recruitment, demand for GPs still exceeds supply,  particularly in regional, rural, and outer-metropolitan communities.

The Federal Government has announced more than $1 billion in GP workforce funding, with around 2,100 doctors expected to commence GP training in 2026, the largest intake on record. Additional training places have also been created for 2027. These are positive steps, but they will take years to translate into fully qualified GPs working independently in communities that need them most. (www.health.gov.uk)

At the same time, the Department of Health’s own modelling continues to project an ongoing shortfall of GPs over the next two decades unless further action is taken. In short: more doctors are entering the pipeline, but demand is growing faster than supply. (www.oia.pmc.gov.au)

The shortage also remains unevenly distributed. Australia doesn’t just have a workforce shortage — it has a workforce distribution problem. Many inner-city areas remain relatively well serviced, while rural towns, remote communities, and fast-growing outer suburbs continue to struggle to attract and retain doctors. This is why the Distribution Priority Area (DPA) system remains central to workforce planning and IMG recruitment. (www.health.gov.au)

For patients, this often means longer wait times, reduced continuity of care, and increasing pressure on emergency departments for issues that should be managed in primary care.

Why Demand Keeps Growing?

One of the key drivers of rising demand is the increasing prevalence of chronic disease and an aging population. Between 2023 and 2048, even small percentage increases in major health conditions will result in hundreds of thousands of additional patients requiring ongoing GP care. The GP Supply and Demand Study (2024) projects a consistent undersupply of GPs through to 2048, with unmet demand rising across all states and territories

Several factors contribute to this persistent shortfall. More GPs are retiring than entering the profession, and many are choosing to work fewer hours. Workforce demographics are shifting, with overseas-trained doctors (IMGs) typically working longer hours, while a growing number of female GPs opt for more flexible schedules. Training bottlenecks also continue to limit the number of new registrars completing the pathway.

Overseas-trained doctors remain vital to maintaining access to primary care across Australia. Pathways such as the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway, RACGP’s PEP Specialist Stream, and Distribution Priority Areas (DPAs) allow IMGs to work in shortage zones under special conditions, helping to fill critical gaps in the system.

How New GPs Can Build a Busy, Sustainable Practice

For new GPs entering the workforce, the ongoing shortage presents a unique opportunity. With strong demand almost everywhere, building a busy, sustainable practice is achievable with the right approach. Success often hinges on being available, building connections and trust.  Getting to know the local community is essential. Participating in events, collaborating with pharmacists, allied health providers, and schools can help build relationships and generate word-of-mouth referrals — still the most powerful growth tool for GPs. Offering a diverse mix of services, such as chronic disease management, mental health care, skin checks, and minor procedures, also helps attract and retain patients.

Technology plays a key role in being found. Online booking systems, telehealth options, and active profiles on platforms like Google and Healthengine make it easier for patients to discover and choose a GP.  Working as part of a well-organised team, including nurses, receptionists, and other clinicians — supports efficient, patient-centred care. Practices that prioritise continuity, accessibility, and consistent follow-ups tend to grow faster and retain patients more effectively.

For GPs considering a move to Australia, asking the right questions during interviews is crucial. Practice models and billing arrangements vary widely, and understanding patient flow,  and financial structures can make the difference between a full schedule and a slow start. It’s worth researching the practice online, checking their website, social media presence, and HotDoc listings, to see how they present themselves and how easy they are for patients to find.

During interviews, think about what you might want to ask to gauge how busy the practice is, what the average weekly billings per GP, typical session structures, and patient demographics. Find out whether the practice maintains a registered patient list or operates on open access, and ask about waiting lists or unmet demand. Clarify how sessional hours and payments are structured  and what the practice does to attract new patients.

Conclusion

Australia’s GP shortage isn’t going away anytime soon. While headcounts are rising, full-time capacity is falling, and chronic disease, population growth, and retirements continue to outpace recruitment. But for new GPs, this shortage represents opportunity. Those who combine strong clinical skills with community engagement, digital visibility, and patient-centred care will find themselves in high demand. Do your research and ask questions,  it’s the best way to set yourself up for success in Australian general practice.

Further Reading

Top 10 Tips for GPs relocating to Australia

Bulk Billing Incentives in Nov 2025

References

Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing – General Practice Workforce Providing Primary Care Services in Australia, 2019–2024
GP Supply and Demand Study Compendium, August 2024 – hwd.health.gov.au