Moutohora Island Bay of Plenty Camilla Rutherford

Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is a place of beautiful harbours, long surf beaches and an easy-going lifestyle. We showcase the perfect place to explore a wide range of nature-based pursuits – this gives the people of the Bay of Plenty a chance for a better work-life balance. 

Photo location: Moutohora Island - Credit: Camilla Rutherford

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Health New Zealand - Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty District
Bay of Plenty Hospitals
Bay of Plenty Health Services
Discover Whakatāne
Relcoate to the district
Vacancies in Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is located on the sunny eastern coast of New Zealand's North Island.

The region includes cities and towns such as Tauranga, Whakatāne, Te Puke, Kawerau and Murupara. 

The Bay of Plenty lives up to its name and is well-known for its stunning coastline, and favourable weather. The mild climate in the region is quite popular among vacationers, retirees, and individuals seeking a lifestyle removed from urban centers.

Bay of Plenty

Health New Zealand - Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty District

Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora is the Government organisation that provides publicly-funded universal health care to 5 million Kiwis. The management and delivery of health services are broken down into 'Districts' across the country, determined by both geographic location and population.

Health New Zealand - Bay of Plenty is one of 20 health districts in Aotearoa, New Zealand and one of five that make up the Midland region. We serve a population of approximately 255,110 residents, with 199,751 in the Western Bay of Plenty and 55,359 in the Eastern Bay of Plenty across two hospitals based in Tauranga and Whakatāne.

View current vacancies in this district

Photo location: Mount Maunganui - Credit: Camilla Rutherford

Mt Maunganui runners - Credit: Camilla Rutherford
An ESC nurse standing in a brightly lit hospital corridor holding some paperwork.

Tauranga and Whakatāne Hospitals

Health New Zealand - Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty is one of the Bay of Plenty’s largest employers with over 4500 staff. Our major population centres are Tauranga, Katikati, Te Puke, Whakatāne, Kawerau and Ōpōtiki. 

The Bay of Plenty is growing at a faster rate than the New Zealand population as a whole. The population is forecast to grow by 20.5% between 2016 and 2026. Most of this growth is expected in the Western Bay of Plenty (particularly Tauranga), with the Eastern Bay of Plenty expected to have a static or declining population.

Bay of Plenty Health Services

Services A to H

Adolescent health
Adolescent mental health
Allied Health
Child health services and support
Breast screening
Breastfeeding
Cardiology
Cervical screening
Chaplaincy
Child development
Child health services and support
Community therapy
Dementia
Dermatology
Diabetes
Dietitians
Support Net | Disability services and support
District nursing
Ear, nose and throat
Emergency department (ED)
Endocrinology
General surgery
Gynaecology
Health in Ageing
Healthy Hearts Cardiac Rehab Programme

Services I to Z

Immunisation
Infectious diseases
Interpreters
Mental health and addiction
National Bowel Screening Programme
Newborn hearing screening
Occupational therapy
Oncology
Ophthalmology
Oral health and dental care
Orthopaedics
Pelvic health
Physiotherapy
Planned care services
Podiatry
Pregnancy and maternity
Radiology
Renal services
Respiratory
Rheumatology
Sexual health
Smokefree
Social work
SORTED | Youth alcohol and other drugs service Bay of Plenty
Speech and language therapy
Toi Te Ora | Public Health
Vascular surgery

Welcome to Whakatāne

Relocating to Whakatāne is not just about advancing your career—it’s about embracing a lifestyle that values balance, connection, and purpose.

Exceptional balance 

Whakatāne offers a relaxed pace of life, with manageable patient loads and short commutes, allowing you to enjoy a fulfilling career while making time for family and personal pursuits. 

Stunning natural environment 

Nestled in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Whakatāne is famous for its sun-soaked climate, pristine beaches, and proximity to natural attractions like Ohope Beach, White Island (Whakaari), and lush native bush trails. 

Community-centred healthcare 

Working in Whakatāne provides the opportunity to deliver care in a close-knit, appreciative community, creating meaningful connections and impactful patient outcomes. 

Professional growth opportunities 

The smaller healthcare setting fosters diverse responsibilities, allowing you to expand your skills and take on leadership, teaching, and innovative service development roles.

Cultural richness 

Whakatāne is the heart of the Ngāti Awa iwi and offers unique opportunities to engage with te ao Māori, incorporating cultural practices and mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) into your healthcare practice.

 
Affordable lifestyle 

Compared to larger cities, Whakatāne offers affordable housing and lower living costs, enabling you to enjoy a higher quality of life without the financial pressures often associated with urban living. 

Excellent schools & family-friendly community

With well-regarded schools and a safe, family-oriented environment, Whakatāne is an ideal place to raise children while contributing to a thriving healthcare system. 

Gateway to adventure 

From world-class fishing and diving to hiking and cycling, Whakatāne is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend your weekends exploring the coast, rivers, and surrounding countryside. 

Collaborative healthcare teams

Whakatāne Hospital and the wider Bay of Plenty health network prioritise teamwork and offer a supportive environment, where your contributions are highly valued. 

Proximity to major centres 

While Whakatāne feels like a peaceful retreat, it’s only a short drive to Rotorua, Tauranga, and Hamilton, providing easy access to additional amenities, entertainment, and transport links. 

Relocating to Whakatāne is not just about advancing your career—it’s about embracing a lifestyle that values balance, connection, and purpose.

Whakatane River - Bay of Plenty

Explore the Whakatāne area

Each of these places offers its own unique lifestyle, with Whakatāne remaining the central hub for work, shopping, and healthcare.

Whether you prefer a coastal retreat, a rural escape, or a small-town vibe, there’s something for everyone near Whakatāne.

Video credit: Whakatāne District Council - Photo credit: Tourism Bay of Plenty

Whakatane harbour picnic - Credit: Tourism Bay of Plenty

Ohope v2

Ōhope

Distance: ~10 min east of Whakatāne. Lifestyle: Ōhope, NZ’s “sunshine capital,” has a relaxed coastal vibe and a stunning beach, perfect for swimming, surfing, and unwinding. Amenities: Cafés, boutiques, fishing, hiking, and beaches.

Edgecumbe v2

Edgecumbe

Distance: ~15 min west of Whakatāne. Lifestyle: A quiet rural town with a close-knit community and affordable housing, offering a relaxed pace of life. Amenities: Local shops, schools, parks, and easy access to Whakatāne for more services.

Kawerau

Kawerau

Distance: ~30 min south of Whakatāne. Lifestyle: An affordable town at Mount Putauaki’s foot, known for its strong community and natural hot springs. Amenities: Basic shopping, schools, parks and recreational facilities,

Taneatua v2

Taneatua

Distance: ~10 min south of Whakatāne. Lifestyle: A small rural town with deep Māori roots, serving as a gateway to Te Urewera. Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Amenities: Limited, but Whakatāne is closeby.

Matata v2

Matatā

Distance: ~25 min northwest of Whakatāne. Lifestyle: A coastal town with a relaxed rural feel, scenic beaches, and wetlands. Ideal for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers. Amenities: Small local shops and a peaceful atmosphere.

Opotiki v2

Ōpōtiki

Distance: ~45 min east of Whakatāne. Lifestyle: A vibrant town with rural charm and coastal beauty, near the East Cape. Enjoy activities like cycling, kayaking, and hiking. Amenities: Schools, shops, cafés, and a strong community feel.

Waimarino adventure park kayakers - Credit: Andy Belcher
Location: Tauranga - Credit: Andy Belcher
Ōhope Beach Trail Whakatane
Location: Whakatāne - Credit: Whakatāne Image Library
Whakatane Heads "Lady on the Rock"
Location: Whakatāne - Credit: Whakatāne Image Library
Mount Maunganui Main Beach and Moturiki Island
Location: Mount Maunganui - Credit: BayofPlentyNZ
Fishermans Table Whakatane - Source: Whakatāne image library
Location: Whakatāne - Credit: Whakatāne image library

Relocating to the Bay of Plenty

Prepare to explore the stunning Bay of Plenty! Here, moving isn't just about a new job; it's about living a tranquil and adventure-filled lifestyle.

Waimarino adventure park kayakers - Credit: Andy Belcher

Getting around

The Bay of Plenty offers a perfect place to explore a wide range of nature-based pursuits from its beautiful harbours, long surf beaches and an easygoing lifestyle.

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Waimarino adventure park kayakers - Credit: Andy Belcher

Getting around

Photo location: Waimarino Park - Credit: Andy Belcher

When you arrive

Your Bay of Plenty adventure begins now!

Driving in New Zealand

You're allowed to use your current driver's license in New Zealand for up to 12 months per visit. After that, you'll need to convert to a New Zealand license. Find out more about driving in New Zealand here.

 

Other ways to travel in the Bay of Plenty

 

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Housing options

There are plenty of options available throughout the region. Welcome to the vibrant community that is the Bay of Plenty! Your role as a healthcare professional is highly valued here.

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Housing options

Photo location: Whakatāne - Credit: Tourism Bay of Plenty

When you arrive

You may consider booking short-term accommodation ahead of your arrival, then search for long-term accommodation when you arrive. The cost and availability of short-term accommodation varies widely through the year. It can be affected by tourism peak season, university start dates and school holidays, to name a few. Familiarise yourself with the city and view available long-term accommodation to ensure it suits your preference. Several considerations to make are proximity to the workplace available nearby schools for the kids, and the ideal size of the property. Some may also find that flatting would be a more suitable arrangement.

Short term accommodation

To ensure a seamless start to your new life, your employer may be able to provide temporary accommodation options dependent on your employment agreement as you settle into the Bay of Plenty. Please speak to your hiring manager regarding what we might be able to offer. You may consider booking temporary accommodation until you can find a longer-term rental. 

Short term accommodation options

 

Rentals

Renting in the Bay of Plenty is a fantastic way to discover the diverse neighbourhoods and lifestyle options. Searching online is a good place to start, you can also check out local rental agencies to help you find a rental. Note that most rentals in Aotearoa are unfurnished however furniture and whiteware can be rented in some parts of the country. 

Rental agencies

 

Buying or building a house

Dreaming of a place to call your own? We understand that moving to a new country is a major move, and buying or building a house there makes it even more significant. If you're a healthcare professional on NZ's Green List of roles, you have a unique opportunity to speed up your residency process. Normally, only residents and citizens can buy a home to live in in New Zealand. When you can, use this tool to find out if you can purchase a house in New Zealand.

 

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beach horse trek - Source: Bay of Plenty Brand Library Moutohora Island - Credit: Camilla Rutherford

Take the next step

Decided to move to New Zealand - Aotearoa?

Fill out our five-minute form with your details, and we'll match you to your preferred location based on your experience and preferences.

Photo location, from left: Moutohora Island; Hot Water Beach - Credits: Camilla Rutherford; Bay of Plenty Brand Library

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