In this Queenstown location guide, we highlight the unique benefits of the area and its facilities, outlining the opportunities available to our doctors. This location is part of a wider series that showcases what it is like to work in a specific region in either Australia or New Zealand.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Sitting on the shore of Lake Wakatipu and bordered by the dramatic Remarkables ranges, Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most renowned destinations. As the birthplace of bungy jumping, it’s no surprise that adventure-seekers are drawn to the “adventure capital of the world,” which is famous for the many outdoor activities on offer year-round. Queenstown is a popular base for skiers and snowboarders during winter and offers a variety of activities for every other season including cycling trails, canyon swinging, jetboating, skydiving, helicopter tours, horse trekking and river rafting.
Not to be pigeonholed as the domain of the adrenaline-junkies, the town provides plenty of more laid-back options as well. Walking tracks, hiking trails and sightseeing tours are just a few of the ways you can immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery, or for a mellower alternative, take a relaxing uphill gondola ride and enjoy sweeping views of the landscape from a new perspective.
With day spas, a vibrant restaurant scene, thermal hot springs, boutique shopping and fine vineyards nearby, there are plenty of ways to indulge during your time off, making Queenstown a fantastic place to create your ideal lifestyle. When you want to go further afield, visit the quaint gold-mining village of Arrowtown or make the two-hour scenic drive to Te Anau and the spell-binding landscape of fiords beyond. The well-serviced airport and robust infrastructure check the boxes of accessibility and convenience for those who choose to make Queenstown their permanent home.
Lakes District Hospital, Southern District Health Board
Situated in Frankton, the Lakes District Hospital services a permanent population of 23,000 people across the Queenstown Lakes District, including Queenstown, Arrowtown, Kingston, Garston, Glenorchy and the Wakatipu Basin, along with a large number of tourists each year.
The hospital has a total of 21 beds, consisting of Inpatient Acute Care, Maternity, Disability Support, Long Stay Elderly Hospital Care, Allied Health Services, Diagnostics, Radiology, District Nursing, Mental Health and Emergency. For minor procedures, there are 10 visiting specialists who provide outpatient clinics and day surgery.
There are around 400 ED presentations each month with up to 50 transfers to secondary or tertiary hospitals, creating a varied work environment for staff. Along with a multidisciplinary team structure and good linkages with local GPs, there are also strong linkages with Southland Hospital and Dunedin Hospital, which provide secondary and tertiary services when needed.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover or are just looking for a bit of diversity in your work and lifestyle, Queenstown has something for everyone. To learn more about the region and any potential locum and permanent opportunities, please contact the team today.
