Oral Health Therapist Jobs in New Zealand 2026 Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is looking for passionate oral health therapists to offer tamariki (children) on the stunning West Coast top-notch dental care. With some travel throughout Te Tai o Poutini, this full-time, permanent position in Greymouth enables you to work in community clinics and schools. You will become a part of a caring, cooperative team that is committed to clinical quality, cultural sensitivity, and whānau-centered care, truly improving the lives of children and their families.
This position provides possibilities for professional development in a rural health setting while making a significant contribution to the community. The starting wage for this role is NZD 70,000 annually, which acknowledges your critical role in enhancing oral health throughout the area.
Details of Oral Health Therapist Job:
- Title: Oral Health Therapist Jobs in New Zealand
- Location: Greymouth, West Coast, New Zealand
- Employment Type: Permanent, Full-time
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 16:30
- Company: Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
About Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora:
Health New Zealand is committed to offering top-notch medical care to every New Zealander. Our equity-focused initiatives promote sustainable health practices, cooperation, and culturally competent care. Māori, Pacific Islander, disabled, and rainbow communities are also welcome to apply.
Responsibilities for Oral Health Therapist Jobs in New Zealand:
- Give preschoolers and school-age children dental therapy and oral health care.
- Work in mobile dental units, community clinics, and schools.
- Participate in team meetings, professional development courses, and service enhancement initiatives.
- Uphold safety, infection control, and patient confidentiality regulations.
- If you qualify, take part in the voluntary bonding program.
Skills and Qualifications for Oral Health Therapist Jobs:
- Current NZ Dental Council Annual Practicing Certificate (APC).
- oral treatment experience, ideally with kids.
- strong administrative, time-management, and organizing abilities.
- outstanding interpersonal and communication abilities for dealing with a variety of populations.
- self-driven, adaptive, and able to change with the health environment.
- dedication to studying Māori te ao, tikanga, and te reo.
- driver’s license with a clean record.
- It is advantageous to have prior experience with dental IT PMS (such as Titanium).
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Benefits of Oral Health Therapist Job:
- Permanent Full-Time Employment: Get steady, long-term employment that offers steady pay and job security, with guaranteed hours from Monday through Friday.
- Opportunities for Professional Development: Get access to continuing education, professional development, and exposure to cutting-edge dental procedures in rural and community health settings.
- Diverse Clinical Experience: Manage a broad range of oral health issues and treatments while working with kids of all ages in community clinics and schools.
- Whānau-Centered Care Environment: Work together with local communities and families while embracing tikanga, te ao Māori, and culturally sensitive medical procedures.
- Scenic Rural Lifestyle: Take advantage of the distinctive West Coast scenery, tight-knit communities, and a healthy work-life balance in stunning New Zealand places.
- The Voluntary Bonding Program Eligibility: Possibility of receiving incentives for working remotely, promoting career advancement and helping marginalized populations.
Why Work on the West Coast?
The West Coast offers a unique lifestyle with close-knit communities and stunning landscapes. Your work will make a tangible impact on community health outcomes. Living here provides a balance of work and life and the opportunity to be part of a rural health center of excellence. Learn more about life on the West Coast: westcoast.co.nz.
How to Apply for Oral Health Therapist Jobs in New Zealand 2026?
Review the Position Description
Carefully read the full role description and requirements to ensure you meet the qualifications.
Prepare Your Documents
- Updated CV / resume
- Cover letter highlighting relevant experience and motivation for working on the West Coast
- Proof of current Annual Practicing Certificate (APC)
Submit Online
All applications must be submitted via the Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora careers portal. Click “Apply Now” on the job listing.
Confirmation
You will receive an email confirming your application has been submitted successfully.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by the recruitment team. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for:
- Phone or video interview
- In-person interview (if applicable)
- Reference checks
Offer and Onboarding
Successful applicants will receive a formal offer and onboarding instructions, including details for registration, training, and orientation.
Contact for Queries
For any questions regarding the application, contact Alex Jay at Alexandra.jay@tewhatuora.govt.nz
Are there opportunities for professional development?
Yes, Health New Zealand supports ongoing professional growth through in-service training, courses, reflective practice, and exposure to innovative dental therapies, ensuring staff develop skills and advance their careers in rural health settings.
Can I access incentives for working remotely?
Eligible candidates may participate in the voluntary bonding scheme, which offers incentives and support for working in remote rural areas, helping attract and retain skilled oral health professionals in underserved communities.
What makes working on the West Coast unique?
The West Coast provides a close-knit community, scenic surroundings, and a rewarding rural health experience, where your work directly impacts local children’s oral health and contributes to building a center of excellence in regional care.