Orthopaedic Surgery

Surgical Specialties
High Demand

Surgical treatment of musculoskeletal system including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves.

Practice Setting: Hospital operating theatres, trauma units, sports medicine clinics

Check Pay
Salary Information

New Zealand

$250,000 - $450,000

Annual salary range (NZD)

Australia (Reference)

A$270,000 - A$490,000

Annual salary range (AUD)

Data from official sources including DHB agreements and professional surveys
Career Progression

Orthopaedic Registrar

$250,000

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

$350,000

Head of Orthopaedics

$450,000
Registration Requirements
  • Fellowship of Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Orthopaedic Surgery
  • Vocational registration with Medical Council of New Zealand
  • Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) certification
Visa Requirements
  • Green List Tier 1 - Straight to residence pathway
  • IELTS 7.5 overall (minimum 7.0 in each band)
  • Medical Council of New Zealand registration
Workforce Demand
Current Demand Level
High

There is significant demand for this specialty in New Zealand. Excellent job prospects and opportunities for career advancement.

Practice Setting: Hospital operating theatres, trauma units, sports medicine clinics

Official Data Sources

All salary and workforce data is sourced from official organizations and verified industry reports:

  • Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ)
  • Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)
  • New Zealand Orthopaedic Association (NZOA)

Data current as of January 2025. For educational purposes only — not medical or financial advice.

Medical Specialties Encyclopedia: Learn More

Comprehensive information about medical specialties, training pathways, and career opportunities in Australia and New Zealand

Medical Specialties Encyclopedia: Australia and New Zealand
Comprehensive Guide to Medical Specialties, Training Pathways, and Career Opportunities

The medical profession in Australia and New Zealand encompasses a diverse landscape of approximately 60-69 distinct medical specialties, each offering unique career pathways, training requirements, and professional opportunities. This comprehensive encyclopedia serves as the definitive reference guide for medical specialties across both countries.

Key Statistics

116,610 practicing doctors (2023)
20,012 practicing doctors (2024)
60-69 distinct medical specialties
17 specialist medical colleges

Legal Disclaimer: Complete salary data from official sources: New Zealand District Health Boards (NZRDA, ASMS agreements) • RNZCGP surveys • Verified industry reports. All figures include exact public-sector pay scales plus realistic private-practice ranges. Data current as of January 2025 • 49 medical specialties and positions. Complete official data coverage. Educational purposes only — not medical or financial advice.