Looking for a GP job in Auckland?
We have recently had the pleasure of assisting a UK trained GP relocate to New Zealand. We talk to Dr Kate Gittins who we helped find a GP job in New Zealand and moved with her family. If you’re thinking about finding a GP Job in Auckland, read further.
What made you decide to move to New Zealand?
We worked in New Zealand more than 20 years ago and had always wanted to return to work here. The opportunity arose for us to move when my husband was offered a job in Auckland. Our sons were in University and my daughter thought that it would be a great experience for her to study in another country so after a lot of family discussion we decided to move.
Tell us about a typical day in your GP role in NZ?
I now work in a large GP practice on the coast in South Eastern Auckland, my day starts at 08:30 and ends at 17:30, I see patients every 15 mins with regular breaks for tea and lunch, on average I see between 24-30 patients a day. There is no on call or visits and there is a large practice team of nurses, receptionists and administrators all available to help.
Best bit about your day?
The best bit of my day is getting home in the early evening less stressed with plenty of time for my family.
Most challenging part of your day?
I am still settling into life as a GP in New Zealand so the most challenging part of my day is learning the New Zealand way of managing patients, new pathways, which medications that are available here and ways of referring patients.
How have you and your family settled in and would you have any tips for other GPs relocating?
We have settled into life here very easily, the people are very friendly, easy going and helpful. My daughter’s school has been great and she made lots of good friends. I haven’t really got any tips about relocating, it is stressful but well worth it.
How have you found the transition from general practice in the UK to New Zealand?
General practice in New Zealand is very similar to general practice in the UK, the main difference is that here general practice is private so the patients pay to see their GP which can occasionally change the dynamic of the consultation but most of the time I just need to remember to give them the invoice! The other difference is that here the consultations are a minimum of 15 minutes which makes a big difference in terms of patient care and I feel less stressed.
Finally, how have you found Transition Medical in helping you make the move to NZ?
I found Transition Medical very helpful in finding me a GP job in Auckland and made my move to New Zealand very easy and less stressful.
Further Reading
Your NZ Visa questions answered
How are you supported into practice
How to give yourself the best chance to find your dream GP job
What next?
If you are interested in GP jobs in Auckland and wider NZ and would like to find out more please get in touch with one of our specialist GP recruitment team.
