Clinical Nurse Specialist - Rheumatology at Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora Lakes, Bay of Plenty

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Permanent part-time role - 0.8 FTE
• Work where others holiday - enjoy the beaches and vibrant coastal lifestyle in Tauranga
• Subsidised onsite hospital gym membership + Free Flu vaccinations + Discounted goods

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

Are you passionate about supporting patients with long-term conditions and improving their quality of life? Were seeking an experienced nurse to join our Rheumatology service as a Clinical Nurse Specialist. This role provides the opportunity to work in a specialised, patient-focused area where education, support, and continuity of care are at the heart of what we do.

The Clinical Nurse Specialist Rheumatology position is primarily based at Tauranga Hospital, with clinics also provided in Greerton and Whakatāne. As part of this role, youll work closely with patients living with complex rheumatological conditions, helping them manage treatment, navigate their care, and optimise their health outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Delivering specialist nursing assessments, education, and support for patients with rheumatological conditions
Supporting patients and their whānau to manage long-term treatment plans, medications, and self-care strategies
Working collaboratively with rheumatologists, allied health, and primary care to provide integrated, patient-centred care
Contributing to service development and quality improvement initiatives
Providing culturally safe, equitable, and compassionate care in every interaction

Click here to view the position description

About the Team/Service/ Location

Our Rheumatology service is a small, highly skilled team. We deliver outpatient clinics in Greerton and Whakatāne, we provide specialist care and support for people across the Bay of Plenty. We are dedicated to improving the lives of patients with complex, chronic conditions through expertise, patient education, and collaborative care. The team works closely with primary care and community services to ensure seamless support across the patient journey.

Click here to learn more about the Bay of Plenty

About you

You will be an experienced nurse with advanced knowledge and a passion for rheumatology or long-term condition management. Youll be committed to delivering safe, effective, and patient-centred care, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a tight-knit team.

Current registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand
Postgraduate qualification or working towards one (preferably in rheumatology, long-term conditions, or related specialty)
Experience in rheumatology, long-term condition management, or outpatient specialist nursing
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment
Strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally safe care

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 apply for the role please click apply now.  All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11:59pm on 8th June 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.