Occupational Therapist (Casual) Nelson at Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough, Nelson Hospital

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Occupational Therapist, Nelson Hospital, Casual

• Join a small, highly respected team where your inpatient experience will be valued.
• Enjoy the flexibility of casual work while contributing across our acute and rehabilitation wards.
• Share your knowledge with Occupational Therapists, Allied Health Assistants, students on placement, and the wider multidisciplinary team.

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

As a Casual Occupational Therapist, you will provide tailored rehabilitation services and support patients throughout their healthcare journey. You will work with patients to maximise their functional independence while contributing to high-quality care across our inpatient services.

This is a casual position based at Nelson Hospital, working on an as-required basis to provide cover for leave and periods of increased demand. Shifts will be offered according to service requirements and your availability. On-call work is not required.

About the Team/Service/ Location

Our team of Occupational Therapists and Allied Health Assistants provide the highest standard of care for our patients. We pride ourselves on being very friendly and supportive, and work in a busy inter-disciplinary environment focusing on promoting, encouraging and enabling the health, well-being and independence of the people in our community. 

For more information on living and working in Nelson click here

About you

As an Occupational Therapist, you will:

• Be adaptable, resourceful, and flexible in responding to service needs;
• Have a genuine passion for supporting patients on their rehabilitation journey;
• Demonstrate excellent time management and organisational skills;
• Work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team;
• Build and maintain positive professional relationships;
• Have New Zealand registration as an Occupational Therapist and a current practising certificate. Previous inpatient experience is essential.

The successful candidate must be eligible to work in New Zealand or hold a valid NZ visa at the time of applying.

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. 

Why Join Us?

Casual opportunities are ideal for Occupational Therapists looking for flexible work arrangements while remaining connected to a supportive and collaborative Allied Health team. You'll gain exposure to a variety of clinical areas and contribute to making a positive difference for patients across our region.

How to Apply

To apply please click 'apply now.' All applications must be submitted through our online careers' portal by 10 November 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact

Sonja Rae (Recruitment) at sonja.rae@tewhatuora.govt.nz OR

Nicole McHaffie - Associate Director Allied Health at nicole.mchaffie@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Job ref: R1N26-278

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

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.