In this location guide series, we will showcase what it is like to work in a specific region in either Australia or New Zealand. Each episode will highlight the unique benefits of the chosen location and its facilities, while outlining the opportunities available to our doctors.
Oamaru, New Zealand
Located 112 km north of Dunedin and home to about 13,000 people, Oamaru is the largest town in the Waitaki District and is thought to be one of the next boom towns attracting people looking to relocate from the big cities.
One of Oamaru’s most renowned features is the Victorian Precinct, which is home to some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most complete Victorian streetscapes and 19th-century architecture, made from locally quarried limestone. There you will find shops, galleries and traditional crafts, and this unique slice of history is proudly commemorated each November during Oamaru’s Victorian Heritage Celebrations. Both because of the Victorian architecture and the town’s artsy atmosphere, Oamaru has become New Zealand’s self-proclaimed capital of Steampunk, and a Steampunk Festival is held annually during June.
Oamaru’s other claim to fame is its colonies of little blue penguins, the largest of which is now a council-run activity offering a unique opportunity to view the penguins in their natural habitat. You can also spot another of the world’s rarest penguins, the yellow-eyed penguin (hoiho), in addition to the fur seals and other unusual seabirds that call Oamaru home.
For the leisure-seekers, Oamaru Harbour offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and an array of cafes, restaurants and artisan shopping. There is even a quirky steampunk-themed playground and bike park to keep the kids busy. Lovers of the great outdoors will enjoy the spectacular local walk and cycling trails, including Cape Wanbrow Walk, the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail and the Bushy Beach Walk. And foodies can sample a variety of locally made treats such as beer and cider, artisan cheese and even classic Kiwi sweets, not to mention the international-award-winning wines being produced in Waitaki Valley, New Zealand’s newest wine appellation.
Oamaru Hospital, Waitaki District Health Services
Oamaru Hospital, operated by Waitaki District Health Services, is a 44-bed facility providing the only secondary level healthcare services to the population of the Waitaki District, with a catchment population of approximately 22,000 within a boundary area of approximately 8,990 square kilometres. Located in the central business area of Oamaru, it aims to provide high-quality hospital and community healthcare services close to home.
The hospital offers a range of public and private integrated services including a 24/7 Emergency Department, Inpatient beds, Maternity, Laboratory, Specialist Outpatient Clinics, Radiology (Plain Film Radiography, CT Scanning and Ultrasound), Geriatric and Mobile Surgical Services. It also serves as the base for wider Allied and Community Health Services such as District Nursing, Physiotherapy, Social Work, Occupational Therapy and Clinical Needs Assessment.
For doctors and other health professionals, Oamaru Hospital provides a unique opportunity to work with a dedicated team, in a modern facility with up-to-date equipment and technology, while enjoying the great lifestyle that the region has to offer.
Closing Thoughts
If you’re looking for a place with an eclectic mix of scenic nature and quirky culture along with the chance to work in a community-focused, rural hospital setting, then Oamaru is for you.
To learn more about the region and any potential locum and permanent opportunities, please contact the team today.
