Optometrist - Wanaka

• Full Time
• Application Closes 14 Aug 2026
• Otago - Wanaka
• Optometrist

OCULA Wanaka is seeking a passionate and experienced Optometrist to join our established boutique practice in a permanent full-time role 32 plus hours a week.

This is an opportunity to deliver outstanding, patient-centred eye care in a practice that brings together advanced clinical services, expert optometry and a carefully curated collection of designer eyewear—all while living in one of New Zealand’s most inspiring alpine communities. 

Whether you are already based in Central Otago or ready to make a lifestyle-led move, this role offers genuine clinical autonomy, meaningful patient relationships, professional development and a work-life balance that is difficult to match.

About the Role

As an Optometrist at OCULA Wanaka, you will provide comprehensive eye care while building lasting relationships with patients from Wānaka and the surrounding community.

You will work alongside an experienced, knowledgeable and supportive team, with access to modern clinical equipment and the professional freedom to focus on delivering excellent patient outcomes.

Your role will include:

• Conducting comprehensive eye examinations and eye-health assessments
• Providing considered, evidence-based clinical advice
• Managing ongoing patient care and building long-term relationships
• Working collaboratively with our wider optical and clinical team
• Contributing to an exceptional and highly personal patient experience
• Developing areas of clinical interest with the support of the business

This role offers an appealing combination of clinical variety, professional satisfaction and lifestyle flexibility.

What You’ll Bring

You will be a confident and caring Optometrist who takes pride in delivering a high standard of clinical care.

You will also bring:

• A recognised optometry qualification
• Current registration with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Board of New Zealand and a current Annual Practising Certificate, or eligibility to obtain these before commencing
• Strong clinical skills across general and advanced optometry
• A genuine commitment to patient-centred care and long-term outcomes
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• A collaborative approach and commitment to team success
• Sound clinical judgement and attention to detail
• A desire to make a meaningful difference in your patients’ lives

Optometrists practising in New Zealand must be registered with the Board, hold a current Annual Practising Certificate.

What You’ll Receive

At OCULA, your expertise will be recognised, supported and valued.

Your package will include:

• A competitive salary
• Relocation assistance for the right candidate
• Medical insurance
• Day off on your birthday
• Ongoing professional development
• Support to pursue further clinical interests
• A stable, permanent full-time position
• Genuine clinical autonomy
• The opportunity to develop long-term patient relationships
• A supportive, collaborative team culture
• An excellent work-life balance

Why Join OCULA?

At OCULA, clinical excellence and exceptional personal service go hand in hand.

We combine advanced eye care with expert advice and a distinctive designer-eyewear experience. Our focus is not simply on completing an appointment—it is on understanding each patient, delivering considered clinical care and helping them find the right solution for their vision, eye health and lifestyle. 

At OCULA Wanaka, you will enjoy:

• A loyal and appreciative patient community
• Modern clinical technology and equipment
• A highly experienced and supportive team
• The time and autonomy to practise quality optometry
• A workplace where your professional opinion is respected
• A culture that values care, collaboration and continuous improvement
• The opportunity to develop your clinical career without sacrificing your life outside work

Why Wānaka?

Wānaka offers a rare combination of relaxed lakeside living, dramatic alpine scenery, a vibrant local community and year-round outdoor adventure.

Imagine beginning your day with a walk or ride beside the lake, spending your working hours delivering meaningful clinical care, and finishing with a sunset paddle, a mountain-bike ride or dinner in town.

Your weekends can be as energetic or as unhurried as you choose: skiing fresh snow, exploring a new trail, heading out on the lake, enjoying the region’s food and hospitality, or simply slowing down and taking in the view.

Wānaka is large enough to feel lively, yet small enough to feel connected. It is a place where you can know your patients, become part of the community and build a fulfilling career without allowing work to consume your life.

Ready to Make the Move?

If you are looking for a role where you can deliver exceptional patient care, continue growing professionally and enjoy an extraordinary quality of life, we would love to hear from you.

Click Apply Now to submit your CV and a brief cover letter.

For questions about the position or a confidential conversation before applying, please contact our HR & Recruitment Manager, Hayley, at people@oculagroup.co.nz

Skills & Experience

•  Strong clinical skills across general optometry and patient care 
• Confident in routine and some complex eye examinations 
• Bachelor of Optometry from the University of Auckland or equivalent 
• Excellent communication skills with a client-first approach 
• Ability to work collaboratively with optometrists, dispensing opticians, and optical assistants 
• Interest in developing skills in areas like myopia control, dry eye, or contact lenses