Looking for a dental job in Wellington, New Zealand?
Discover exciting career opportunities in the capital city—where professional growth meets vibrant city living.
Wellington offers a unique blend of culture, career development, and lifestyle. As New Zealand’s political and creative hub, it boasts a strong economy, diverse population, and consistent demand for healthcare services—making it an ideal location for skilled dental professionals.
Whether you’re looking to work in the heart of the CBD or in well-established suburbs like Karori, Miramar, or Lower Hutt, Wellington provides a dynamic and supportive environment where dentists can thrive. Enjoy a high quality of life, top-rated schools, and world-class amenities—alongside stunning harbour views, vibrant arts, and easy access to beaches, bush walks, and the surrounding hills.
Wellington is a top choice for dentists seeking meaningful career opportunities in a lively, cosmopolitan city with natural beauty at its doorstep.
Get in Touch
Talk to our expert recruitment team on +61 (2) 9099 5774 or email us at [email protected]
Our Frequently Asked Questions section has the answers to all your questions about life as a Dentist in New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering applying for one of our dental jobs in Wellington, here are some common questions:
How much does a Full-Time Dentist make in Wellington?
Wellington offers competitive salaries for dentists, supported by a steady population and strong, ongoing demand for dental care across the region. Key points about dentist salaries and opportunities in Wellington include:
Competitive Earnings: Dentists in Wellington typically earn between NZD $140,000 and $180,000 per year, reflecting the city’s status as a major metropolitan centre and its well-established healthcare infrastructure.
Diverse Opportunities: From private practices in the CBD to community clinics in suburbs like Karori, Newtown, and Lower Hutt, Wellington offers a wide range of career paths for dentists at all experience levels.
Growing Demand: As the capital city, Wellington attracts professionals, families, and students—fueling consistent demand for quality dental services and ensuring strong job security and career advancement.
Private and Public Sector Roles: Dentists may find work in private practices, district health boards, or public health outreach. Private practices often offer higher earning potential, while public roles can provide stability, variety, and flexible hours.
Work-Life Balance: With its stunning harbour, vibrant arts scene, and easy access to nature, Wellington delivers a fantastic lifestyle. Enjoy weekends exploring nearby beaches, bush walks, or indulging in the city’s renowned cafes and cultural events.
Overall, Wellington is an ideal location for dentists seeking a rewarding career in a dynamic, well-connected city that offers both professional opportunity and exceptional quality of life.
Are my Dental qualifications eligible in New Zealand?
If you hold a dental degree from the UK, it is generally recognised by the Dental Council of New Zealand (DCNZ), which is responsible for assessing overseas dental qualifications.
You will need to undergo a registration and competency assessment process, which is managed by the DCNZ.
More information about eligible international dental qualifications and the registration process is available on the Dental Council of New Zealand website.
Highest paying areas for Dentists in Wellington
The highest-paying areas for dentists in Wellington and the wider region include both central urban locations and expanding suburban communities where demand for dental services remains strong. Key areas include:
Wellington Central: As the capital’s business and healthcare hub, central Wellington offers strong earning potential for dentists, typically ranging from NZD $140,000 to $180,000 per year, supported by high patient flow and established practices.
Karori and Kelburn: These well-populated, family-oriented suburbs offer excellent opportunities for dentists, with salaries often reaching NZD $145,000 to $175,000, reflecting consistent demand and high community engagement.
Newtown and Mount Cook: Located near Wellington Hospital and educational institutions, these vibrant inner suburbs support diverse patient needs, with salaries typically in the NZD $135,000 to $165,000 range—especially in multidisciplinary or private clinics.
Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt: These key areas in the Hutt Valley provide a mix of urban and suburban opportunities, with earnings generally between NZD $140,000 and $175,000, driven by growing populations and increasing local demand for dental care.
Porirua and Kapiti Coast: Just north of Wellington, these fast-developing communities offer strong salary potential—up to NZD $180,000—particularly for dentists in private practices serving family populations and underserved areas.
These areas offer a mix of career opportunity and lifestyle appeal, making Wellington a top choice for dental professionals seeking high earning potential, diverse work environments, and access to the vibrant cultural life and natural beauty of New Zealand’s capital region.
Where can I find more information for Dentists moving to New Zealand?
If you are a dentist in the UK considering a move to New Zealand, Prospect Health Recruitment has all the information you need to build a successful and rewarding career overseas.
Contact our specialist team for guidance on research and planning, eligibility and qualifications, registration with the Dental Council of New Zealand, and much more.
Call us on 01423 813 455 or send us an email for a no obligation chat on [email protected]