Dental Therapist at Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora Lakes, Bay of Plenty

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Enjoy life in the Eastern Bay where natural beauty, culture, and community thrive
• Permanent, part-time role 0.8 FTE
• A great fit for clinicians seeking variety, lifestyle balance, and meaningful mahi

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

About the Role

Are you a passionate Dental or Oral Health Therapist looking to make a real impact in your community? This is your opportunity to join our dedicated Community Oral Health team in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, in a permanent, part-time role (32 hours per week).

You'll provide high-quality, culturally safe dental care to tamariki and rangatahi aged 018, working from both fixed-site clinics and mobile dental units. This role offers clinical variety, flexibility, and the chance to travel into some of the regions most remote and rewarding communities with occasional funded travel for up to 4 nights per week during service rotations.

We welcome applicants with at least 12 months of post-graduate experience and encourage new graduates (starting January 2026) and overseas-qualified professionals with current or pending Dental Council NZ registration to apply.

About the Team / Service / Location

Our Community Oral Health Service is a vibrant, whānau-focused team delivering preventive and restorative oral care across the Eastern Bay. Based in one of Aotearoas sunniest regions, youll work in a setting known for its laid-back lifestyle, bush-clad trails, stunning beaches, and strong sense of community. This region offers a uniquely balanced lifestyle a space to grow professionally while enjoying the perks of small-town living.

Click here to learn more about the Bay of Plenty

About You

Youre a motivated, culturally aware clinician who thrives in diverse environments and enjoys working with children, whānau, and communities. You bring a collaborative attitude, a commitment to health equity, and the adaptability to deliver care in both mobile and fixed settings.

What You Will Bring

• Current registration with the Dental Council of NZ and 2025/2026 Annual Practising Certificate
• Minimum of 12 months post-graduate experience (or be a 2026 new graduate or qualified overseas candidate with valid/pending registration)
• A strong understanding of culturally safe practice and the ability to work inclusively across diverse communities
• A restricted or full NZ Driver Licence
• Willingness to travel for short periods when working in rural areas
• A commitment to health and safety and professional standards

We support your professional growth with ongoing learning opportunities and annual reimbursement for both your Annual Practising Certificate and professional association membership.

Click here to view the Position Description

Working for 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 Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To view the position description and/or apply for the role please click apply now.  All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11:59pm on 15 February 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact bp-Careers@tewhatuora.govt.nz

Please note, we will be reviewing applications when received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.