Rugged beauty and tight-knit communities

The West Coast region stretches along the western side of the South Island in New Zealand. It is situated between the Southern Alps, which lie to the east, and the rough, isolated beaches to the west.

Living on New Zealand’s West Coast offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and tight-knit community. Surrounded by majestic mountains, ancient rainforests, and wild beaches, residents enjoy endless outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and surfing. 

Lake Matheson, West Coast
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Tranquility without isolation

With affordable housing and stunning natural landscapes just outside the doorstep, it is perfect for those looking for tranquility without isolation.

Tranquility without isolation

With affordable housing and stunning natural landscapes just outside the doorstep, it is perfect for those looking for tranquility without isolation.

Apply for a role on the West Coast

Whether you are based in New Zealand or moving here from overseas, the West Coast offers rewarding career opportunities in a supportive and collaborative environment.

We welcome applicants who are passionate about equitable, family-centred care.

Find a role on the West Coastexternal link

Working on the West Coast

West Coast region services cover approximately 32,000 people in one of the largest geographical areas in Aotearoa, employing over 1,000 staff. Offering everyday care to communities and first responders in remote areas for emergencies.

Providing a diverse range of health services, including comprehensive mental health care for both inpatients and the community. They also offer services for acute cases, rehabilitation, child and family support, as well as alcohol and drug assistance.

Hospitals on the West Coast

12 Hospitals
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Greymouth

Te Nīkau Hospital & Health Centre

Emergency Department
GP clinic
Secondary birthing unit
Sexual Health Clinic
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Westport

Buller Health Centre

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Primary birthing unit
Sexual Health Clinic
Hokitika

Hokitika Health Centre

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier Clinic

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Franz Josef

Franz Josef Clinic

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Haast

Haast Clinic

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Hari Hari

Hari Hari Clinic

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Karamea Health Centre surrounded by trees
Karamea

Karamea Health Centre

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Moana

Lake Brunner Clinic

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Whataroa

Whataroa Clinic

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Reefton

Reefton Health

No Emergency Department
GP clinic
Hector

Ngākawau Health Centre

No Emergency Department
GP clinic

West Coast health care services

Open all

  • Alcohol and Drug Services
  • Cancer Support Services
  • Child and Adolescent Mental Health
  • Child Health
  • Community Mental Health Services
  • Critical Care Unit
  • Dementia Unit
  • Emergency Department
  • General Medical
  • General Surgical

  • Māori Mental Health
  • Mental Health Crisis Team
  • Mental Health Unit
  • Midwifery Services
  • Oncology and Palliative Care
  • Oral Health Services
  • Pharmacies
  • Primary Care
  • PRIME Care
  • Rural Health Clinics

Towns on the West Coast

The West Coast covers Karamea in the North to Haast in the South and manages 3 major health facilities in Greymouth, Westport, and Reefton. Other towns include Franz Joseph and Hokitika.

Lake Māhinapua
Rachael Hockridge
Greymouth
Rachael Hockridge
Hokitika Gorge
Rachael Hockridge
Franz Josef
Stewart Nimmo
Copland Track
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Support for international candidates

How we can help you make the move

Whether you are looking to get started or already have your bags packed, our team can help answer any questions you have, no matter what stage you are at.

Dedicated immigration and visa support

Health New Zealand's Health Immigration Service offers free expert guidance on work visa applications, including Green List and Straight to Residence pathways, helping make the move to New Zealand as smooth as possible.

Our Health Immigration Service

Professional registration guidance

Before starting work, international candidates must be registered with the appropriate New Zealand authority, such as MCNZ, NCNZ, or OTBNZ. Health NZ provides support throughout the registration process.

What you need to work here

Transition support

From arrival logistics to finding accommodation, setting up bank accounts, and getting oriented, support is available to help candidates settle confidently into life and work in New Zealand. This includes practical guidance to make your move as smooth as possible, from day one.

Accommodation and housing

Family and lifestyle integration

Health New Zealand helps you and your family adjust to life in New Zealand. This includes school enrolments, access to healthcare, local services, and community connections. Ongoing support ensures you feel confident, connected and supported both professionally and personally. 

Living in New Zealand

Roles available with Health New Zealand

Find a range of clinical and non-clinical roles available across our 19 districts.

Explore our in demand roles

About working at Health New Zealand

Learn more about Health New Zealand as an organisation and employer.

Find out about working at Health NZ

Information for international candidates

Find helpful information on relocating to live and work in New Zealand.

Learn about the support available