Registered Nurse - OPAL & Outpatients

• Waikato Hospital
• One Internal Secondment - Fixed-Term, Full Time – 80 hours per fortnight, Ending 30 June 2026

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

We have an opportunity for one motivated, registered nurse to join the Older Persons Assessment and Liaison (OPAL) team.

Click here to view the position description.

About the Team/Service

OPAL is a progressive team of nurses who assess patients in the acute care setting, for continuing care needs, including rehabilitation. The OPAL team facilitates patient flow through the Organisation.

About Waikato

The Waikato region is a dynamic mix of stunning scenery and cultural richness, providing a variety of experiences for every age. Whether you're catching epic surf, discovering breathtaking underground wonders, or immersing yourself in the magic of a famous movie landscape, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 

 For more information on living and working in Waikato click here

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

To be an effective OPAL nurse, the following skills an experience are required:

• Critical thinking and the ability to make comprehensive assessment of patients with complex needs.
• Sound clinical knowledge about gerontology and rehabilitation.
• As a frontline ambassador for the service, excellent communication skills that will enable you to develop positive relationships with a number of services across Waikato Hospital.
• Experience in a leadership role or demonstration of PDRP proficient/expert (or equivalent) as an advantage.

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 15 October 2025. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Rachael Devey at Rachael.Devey@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz

Please note, internal employees of Health New Zealand, Te Whatu Ora will be given preference.

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