Clinical Nurse/Midwife Specialist – Lactation Consultant

• Waikato Hospital
• Permanent – 48 hours per fortnight

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

In this position you will provide expert breastfeeding support designed for premature and medically complex infants. You'll work closely within a multidisciplinary team (MDT) to promote optimal breastfeeding outcomes for NICU families. This includes:

• Direct Clinical Care: Deliver specialised breastfeeding assessments, individualised care plans, and ongoing support to mothers and infants in the NICU setting.
• Collaboration within the MDT: Actively engage with neonatologists, nurses, dietitians and other NICU specialists to coordinate breastfeeding care with the infant's medical plan.
• Guideline and Protocol Champion: Participate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of NICU breastfeeding guidelines and protocols.
• BFHI Educator and Advocate: Provide breastfeeding education to NICU staff and parents, ensuring practices uphold the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI).
• Addressing Inequities: Actively work to improve breastfeeding support and outcomes for Māori and other vulnerable NICU populations.
• Mentorship and Research: Offer mentorship opportunities for aspiring lactation specialists in the NICU setting. Consider contributing to research that improves breastfeeding practices within the NICU.

Click here to view the position description.

About the Team

We are a 41 bed unit that comprises of level 1, 2 & 3 beds. The role supports in NICU in taking responsibility for safe and effective management of resources, and ensures the delivery of excellent patient care.

About Hamilton

Waikato Hospital is a major regional hospital in Hamilton and is a leading tertiary teaching hospital located in Hamilton, New Zealand, serving as the regional hub for the Midland area, which includes the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Lakes, Tairawhiti, and Taranaki districts. With around 722 inpatient beds, 22 operating theatres, and a dedicated outpatient clinic and procedure centre, Waikato Hospital provides comprehensive hospital services, including radiology, laboratory, and pharmacy. As a major teaching hospital with affiliations to the University of Auckland, University of Waikato, and Wintec, it offers a dynamic learning environment and access to research opportunities. The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities located on the Waiora Waikato Hospital Campus, with both road and air ambulance support.

Hamilton, where Waikato Hospital is situated, is a vibrant city nestled alongside the scenic Waikato River, offering a perfect mix of nature and culture. Explore the stunning Hamilton Gardens, home to themed gardens from Italy to Asia, or visit the Waikato Museum to delve into the region's rich history. The city also boasts the Hamilton Zoo, where you can walk through an aviary filled with native birds. Hamilton is a lively hub, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars, along with events like rugby, cricket, and the famous National Agricultural Fieldays and Balloons over Waikato festival. With its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures, Hamilton is an ideal place to live and work.

For more information on living and working in Waikato click here

About you

We are seeking a registered midwife or nurse who is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to join our NICU team. This role may be considered for an experienced midwife or nurse, working within their scope of practice, seeking to become an IBCLC, with conditions.

You will:

• Have a current New Zealand annual practicing certificate.
• Hold a post graduate nursing qualification.
• Demonstrate highly effective communication skills.
• Be committed to quality service.
• Demonstrate commitment to a customer focused service delivery.
• Have excellent time management.
• Be inclusive and a positive team member.

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply please click “Apply online” or apply via our Waikato Careers website by clicking here.

All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal before 11:59 pm on 19 May 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Robyn Payne at Robyn.Payne@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process before the closing date of this advert.