Occupational Therapist

Tuesday, September 15th, 2026

You help people live full and independent lives — now it’s time to build the lifestyle and career you deserve in New Zealand.

Accent Health Recruitment is seeking qualified Occupational Therapists from around the world to work in a range of rewarding healthcare settings across both the North and South Island of New Zealand. Opportunities are available in a variety of locations, from vibrant cities to relaxed coastal and regional communities.

Opportunities Available In

  • Acute physical health and rehabilitation
  • Community allied health services
  • Mental health services
  • Child development and paediatrics
  • Older persons health and aged care
  • Intellectual disability services
  • Inpatient and outpatient settings

Roles may include rotational opportunities or specialist practice areas depending on location and service needs.

Why Choose New Zealand?

New Zealand offers an outstanding quality of life with a strong focus on wellbeing, work-life balance and outdoor living. Whether you enjoy beaches, hiking, skiing, surfing or vibrant city life, there’s something here for everyone.

What You’ll Receive

  • Competitive salary packages
  • Paid annual leave and sick leave
  • Continuing Professional Development (CPD) support
  • Career development opportunities
  • Flexible work options in many locations
  • Supportive multidisciplinary teams

Requirements

To work as an Occupational Therapist in New Zealand, you must:

  • Hold recognised Occupational Therapy qualifications
  • Be eligible for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand
  • Meet the English language and professional standards required for practice

International applications are welcome.

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MRI Diagnostic Radiographer

Tuesday, September 15th, 2026

Accent Health Recruitment is seeking qualified MRI Diagnostic Radiographers for exciting opportunities across a range of locations throughout New Zealand’s North and South Islands.

If you are looking for a lifestyle change, outstanding career opportunities, and genuine work-life balance, New Zealand offers the perfect combination of professional fulfilment and an incredible quality of life. These positions provide the opportunity to work in modern, forward-thinking MRI departments with supportive teams, advanced technology, and excellent professional development pathways — all while enjoying more time for family, travel, outdoor adventure, and personal wellbeing.

Why Choose New Zealand?

New Zealand is internationally recognised for its relaxed lifestyle, friendly communities, stunning natural scenery, and excellent healthcare system. Imagine finishing work and being close to:

  • Beaches, mountains, hiking trails, and lakes
  • World-class skiing, biking, fishing, and water sports
  • Safe, family-friendly communities
  • Short commute times and less stress
  • Excellent schools and healthcare
  • A true work-life balance

Healthcare professionals relocating to New Zealand often enjoy:

  • Competitive salaries
  • Generous annual leave
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Flexible and supportive work environments
  • Better balance between career and lifestyle

About the Opportunities

Successful candidates will join welcoming and high-performing MRI teams that value collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. Departments are equipped with modern MRI technology and may offer exposure to:

  • Advanced neuro imaging
  • Cardiac MRI
  • Breast imaging and biopsy
  • Paediatric and geriatric imaging
  • ICU and acute imaging services
  • Research imaging

Many departments provide comprehensive orientation and ongoing training, making these roles ideal for MRI Diagnostic Radiographers wanting to further develop advanced clinical skills. Some positions may include participation in on-call rosters, evening shifts, and weekend rotations.

About You

We are looking for professionals who are:

  • Qualified MRI Diagnostic Radiographers
  • Passionate about patient care and imaging excellence
  • Friendly, adaptable, and team-oriented
  • Strong communicators with a positive attitude
  • Able to work independently and think critically
  • Committed to ongoing professional development

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Rachel – Speech Language Therapist

Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025

Our family of four moved from the USA to Christchurch, New Zealand. Packing up your entire life and moving to the other side of the world with a 2-year-old and 4-year-old is no easy task. The months before we left and after we arrived were some of the most stressful of our lives. However, now that we are settled in, we are so happy that we made the move. We absolutely love our new lives in Christchurch!

Christchurch is a family-friendly city, and we’ve found lots of fun things to do with our kids here. There are also many beautiful places to visit just a couple of hours away.

My husband (RN) and I (SLT) find the work-life balance to be incredible. We don’t feel pressure to work extra shifts or take work home, like we did back home. My husband actually gets a lunch break now! Our employers have also been more than understanding when one of our kids wakes up with a fever or a cough and we can’t make it in.

We’ve found life to move at a slower pace in New Zealand. It feels very safe and calm. Our kids are thriving here and love their preschool and spending time exploring the many parks in the city.

Prudence from Accent was really helpful in making this move happen. She was able to find both my husband and I amazing jobs in the same city, at the same time (which we didn’t think would be possible)! Thanks to her help, our timeline with securing jobs, getting our visas in order, and moving worked out perfectly.

Prudence’s support continued after we arrived. She and her team greeted our jetlagged family at the airport, drove us to our Airbnb, and left us with a bag of groceries. She continued to check in on us those first few months to make sure we were happy and settling in well. She even put us in contact with other local families with young children who had also recently made the move- it helped give us a sense of community in our new home!

Thank you, Prudence, and Accent! We are so happy to be here!

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Jill – Radiographer

Friday, May 31st, 2024

My name is Jill and I’m a radiographer specialising in mammography. I came to NZ in August 2021 from the UK at the height the pandemic, the process with registering with the professional body in NZ, recruitment and immigration took about 9 months.

Kristin guided me at every stage during the recruitment process, whilst in the UK and once in NZ. On arrival in NZ, ACCENT were very much on hand with invaluable advice on all aspects of settling in the country including finding accommodation, setting up a bank account, registering with the Inland revenue and work / visa related guidance. At every stage, Kristin was prompt in responding to any questions or concerns along the way.

Working in my profession in New Zealand was comparable to the UK in terms of standards and workloads. Some of the equipment was a little dated but in no way detracted from my experience. I was based in Dunedin but rostered to spend approximately two weeks in 4 on the mobile screening unit, in various locations throughout Otago. This was simply amazing and probably the best experience of my entire career…. being situated amidst mountains, stunning skies, raging rivers, the Pacific Ocean and being able to watch the little blue penguins come ashore at dusk……there’s more, lots more but I don’t have the space to list them all here!

When I wasn’t working there were fantastic opportunities right on my doorstep. I didn’t waste a minute of my 14 months in New Zealand and was sad when the time came to leave. In addition to the stunning scenery, I particularly loved the wildlife and the history and setting of the gold rush in Central Otago.

Jill

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Rebecca – Physiotherapist

Thursday, April 18th, 2024

My name is Rebecca. I am a Physiotherapist. I came to NZ in December 2022 from the USA. I started working with ACCENT in June 2022, accepted a job offer in August 2022 and arrived in NZ in December 2022.

The easiest part of the process was working with Hayley, who made the job search and visa process much easier than it could have been. The most challenging part for me was registering with the physio board — since the NZ health system is so different from the USA system, it took me a while to gather sufficient evidence for my application.

Hayley worked with me to find a job that fit exactly what I was looking for. It was really helpful to have guidance to find the right job offer as well as with the visa process. I am still working for the same company over a year later.

My first impressions of New Zealand were that everything is so laid back here. The people are really sweet, friendly and so helpful. What I specifically like about New Zealand is that it’s beautiful and I appreciate the easy going lifestyle. I also feel like there is a lot of freedom to work how I want to, and family is such a priority for everyone.

I live in Hawke’s Bay. Hawke’s Bay is beautiful, and I really appreciate the availability of fresh and local food — I did not realise it was “the fruit bowl” of New Zealand! I am happy to be in a place where everything is a short drive away, but if you drive a little further you are surrounded by hills, farmland or ocean.

My current role in NZ and my previous role in the USA are very different. There are fully funded programmes here categorised based on the client’s needs, whereas back home it was all based on your insurance provider. There is a lot more interdisciplinary teamwork here, and I wish it was this easy back home to access services like psychology or equipment to support people in their recovery. That aspect has been really refreshing.

My advice if you are planning to come to NZ is to do your research before you move. It’s a great place to be, but it is expensive to live here — housing can be limited, particularly in areas where there is a shortage, which leads to higher rent.

Rebecca

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Marisa – Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Wednesday, January 17th, 2024

My name is Marisa and I’m a Nuclear Medicine Technologist from Canada. I arrived in NZ in October 2022. The process to come to NZ took me about a year.

The easiest part of the process was the help from ACCENT Health Recruitment, more specifically Kristin. The most challenging part of the process was the waiting period between interviews, the license, and the VISA application. ACCENT Health Recruitment helped me in many different stages of my application. The process was definitely smoother thanks to Kristin’s help. I can get quite anxious, and Kristin was there to provide the right advice and support.

New Zealand received me on a sunny day with open arms. Kiwis are so welcoming and friendly!

After living here for more than a year, I’m very happy and proud of my decision. I really enjoy the balance between the mountains/greenage and the sea. I live in the suburbs in the middle of mountains, I can enjoy a morning coffee listening to the native birds as well as listening to music by the beach.

New Zealand has allowed me to reach closer to the lifestyle I have envisaged for myself. I have met wonderful people, not only New Zealanders but from all parts of the world. I have also tried new activities and discovered new sides to myself.

As a solo female immigrant, I feel quite safe living here. What I miss the most is my family. It’s difficult to fill that void, but active video calls help! I have also created small chosen families or my Whanau in different spheres of my life. I definitely feel my heart richer in their company.

Since I have arrived, I have tried to visit as much as possible on my free days. I have cleared most of the North Island, and hopefully I will be able to properly explore the South Island with my family when they come visit me from abroad.

Professionally, my role in New Zealand is slightly different since my license is restricted to a specific area of my profession. General Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT are difficult to coexist in the same company/hospital. Making the licensing/overseeing training process difficult but not impossible. On the other hand, I have learned a lot, and I am very proud of the professionalism of the team I work with. The patient care is outstanding!

My advice if you are planning to come to NZ is to start applying right away, so you don’t feel restricted or frustrated by how long the process might take.

I can’t wait to see what other adventures I will have during my second year living in NZ!

Marisa

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Ana – Radiographer / Sonographer

Friday, June 16th, 2023

My Name is Nur Farhanah (Ana). I am a Radiographer/Sonographer. I came to NZ in July 2022 from Singapore. The process to come to NZ took me 6 months.

The easiest part of the process was applying for the job. The most challenging part of the process was leaving our comfort zone and exploring new places. Lots of things to learn about a new country (housing, renting, working and education). But Accent Health Recruitment really helped in those aspects.

Accent Health Recruitment gave great advice on where to relocate to in New Zealand especially since we have children below the age of 5. We’ve only knew about Auckland but with their help, there are more places we could explore for employment. They followed up with us pre and post job interviews such as how to write resume following New Zealand standard and questions future employees might ask. Even after we have settled into normal life here in New Zealand, they still check up on us. Truly an awesome recruitment agency.

Kristin was the main recruiter we communicated with, but the rest of the team helped us as well when she wasn’t around. It was great teamwork.

My first impressions of New Zealand were: Chill. No rush. No judgement. BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY. What I specifically like about New Zealand is that they are open to making mistakes and that everything is a learning experience.

I think the best parts of New Zealand is that the people are friendly. There is a sense of community especially for families with children.

I like the area I live in because it is family-oriented, relaxed life. We’ve explored the North Island. Next will be the South Island. LOTR fan 😁

What I miss the most is the variety of Halal food. But we make do by learning to cook more as compared to back in Singapore. What I put in place to help support what I miss is going on road trips, exploring NZ, going to community-initiated events.

There are HUGE DIFFERENCES between my current role in NZ and my previous role in Singapore. Here, it is people/staff welfare oriented which helps with mental health wellbeing of those working as healthcare workers. You are able to care for yourself better so that you can take better care of your patients. The company encourages professional growth. Hence, I’m able to take part time postgrad studies.

The similarities that helped me transition are that job requirements are similar. Working with people (staff and patients) from different races, cultures, religion and backgrounds.

In New Zealand I like how they are people-oriented and how I have the time to communicate with patients. The no rush policy. Healthcare workers truly work as a team and not a hierarchy kind of system.

My advice if you are planning to come to New Zealand is to take everything in your stride. If you need help, reach out. Even your employer tries their best to help you settle in. Do your homework such as know how to set your IRD accounts, applying for bank accounts (and which suits you), planning mode of transportations to work.

The work/life balance has made a difference to my life because surprisingly, we work lesser hours here but earn more. More time spent with family even if we are working shifts. More time to sleep, travel and be amongst nature.

Migrating for work was the hardest but ultimately the best choice we made, for our family.

Ngā mihi,

Nur Farhanah (Ana)

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Nicholas – Occupational Therapist

Tuesday, April 18th, 2023

My Name is Nicholas, I am an Occupational Therapist. I came to NZ in March from South Africa. The process to come to NZ took me 12 months.

The easiest part of the process was job seeking and the most challenging part of the process was COVID which caused a delay in the processing of important documentation.

Accent Health Recruitment was there from day one. Not only did they ensure I had several job interviews but they checked in regularly to see how I was doing on a personal level. Prudence was my recruiter and she guided and supported me from day 1 (she still does). Professional, warm and friendly is how I would describe the level of service from Prudence and her team. There were some difficult days but Prudence was always there to help (even when she was on holiday 😊).

My first impression was flying in over the South Island, the natural beauty of the country was evident. Walking the streets for the first time, I felt the harmony between people and nature.

I specifically like the natural beauty that surrounds one. There are so many beautiful parks, walking routes and stunning beaches. People are super friendly and willing to help.

I think the best parts of NZ are the beaches. The area I live in is surrounded by nature, very clean and has diverse restaurants. I plan to visit Auckland. To watch the Springboks and All Blacks play rugby in July.

Family, friends, and traditional South African food is what I miss the most. New Zealand being so diverse I managed to find a South African pantry that sells traditional goods. I also have regular video calls with family and friends.

My advice if you are planning to come to NZ is to pack your bags ASAP and come and experience the beauty of the people and country.

The work/life balance made a difference to my life because I feel more relaxed after a day’s work. There is ample activities to do and places to see. Similarities that have helped me transition easily are the dedication of staff members and effective communication in the workplace.

Prudence and her team are amazing. What a privilege it has been to have them on this journey with me.

Nicholas

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Firdaus – Medical Radiation Technologist

Thursday, September 1st, 2022

My name is Firdaus. I came to NZ from Singapore in June 2022 with my wife Farhanah and our 2 children. We are both Radiographers/Medical Radiation Technologists (MRT).

The entire process took us about 6 months from the time we first applied to our visa approval. The easiest part of the process was the job search but the most challenging was applying for our professional registration with the MRTB and compiling the required documents.

ACCENT Health Recruitment has helped greatly in terms of the job hunt and the move itself. Kristin, our recruiter, was very knowledgeable and took great care in getting to know us both, our experience, and our preferences in work location in NZ. Kristin also helped to arrange for our interviews with the hospital, the preparation and the follow up of the entire process. She would periodically check-in with us to ask how we are even after we have settled in which was something we really appreciated as we did not know anyone here.

Our first impression of NZ was how calm it is here. What I specifically like is being able to slow down and take my time to enjoy the scenery. The area we live in is not a typically busy area and the neighbours are friendly. We do miss Singapore at times especially the food variety they had.

We plan to go on road trips and gradually visit the various cities in NZ, their attractions and experience what they have to offer.

We were both radiographers back in Singapore and the roles and responsibilities has not really changed much for us here in NZ. Our prior experience also helped us greatly during our orientation phase aside from slight difference in the processes. We were also surprised at the higher level of autonomy given to MRTs here in NZ as compared to Singapore. We are also able to achieve a healthy work/life balance and go on family outings more frequently than before.

Our advice if you are planning on coming to NZ for work is to first research the place you wish to move to and prepare everything you need like documents and certificates. Next is to not hesitate to seek advice from professional bodies such as ACCENT Health as they make the process a lot smoother. Lastly is to not hesitate to take the first step as it gets easier from there.

Firdaus

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Vijaya – Physiotherapist

Tuesday, June 14th, 2022

My Name is Vijaya, and I am a Physiotherapist. I came to New Zealand on the 18th of March 2022 from South Africa. The process to come to NZ took me 1 year, 6months and the easiest part of the process was obtaining a job. The most challenging part of the process was waiting for passports.

I absolutely loved the beauty and safeness I felt immediately. The people I encountered were very helpful. The best parts for me are the safety and freedom the country offers me and my family. The beauty around us is a big bonus. I love the peacefulness and beauty. We feel very safe taking walks and public transport is easily accessible.

I plan to visit all parts of New Zealand, but I want to start with Rotorua and Queenstown because I have been told how beautiful the places are. I definitely miss my family and friends the most.

My advice if you are planning to come to NZ is that you must be open minded and understand that it is going to be very different from your home country. And you should embrace the culture of NZ, and not consistently compare countries, because they both have pros and cons, but it is what you make of it that matters.

The work/life balance has been one of the best parts of moving to NZ. I do not work weekends anymore which is amazing. The work culture is so different here in the sense that family time holds great importance and is never sacrificed.

Hayley at Accent was absolutely amazing in helping and encouraging me. She regularly checked in on me during the entire process and supported me when I felt frustrated. Her guidance definitely helped me secure my job.

There are many differences between my current role in NZ and my previous role in South Africa because I had to learn about the NZ Healthcare system and ACC. But other than that physiotherapy is essentially the same throughout the world.

I had a very good induction and support from my company that greatly helped build my confidence and knowledge, and I still practice in the same manner. Physiotherapy doesn’t change. It is universal.

Below are some pics of my work colleagues and my family.

Kind regards

Vijaya

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