Clinical Nurse Specialist - Oncology

Clinical Nurse Specialist - Oncology (Head and Neck Tumour Stream)We are seeking a motivated, compassionate and experienced Clinical Nurse Specialist to make a meaningful impact in the care of people affected by head and neck cancers across Waikato.

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

As the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) aligned with the head and neck tumour stream you will bring advanced nursing knowledge, leadership, and compassion to this highly specialised area of care.

You will report to the Nurse Manager Cancer and Chronic Conditions and work alongside Medical Consultants, Surgeons, Pathologists, and other specialist consultants.

Together you will deliver coordinated, patient-centred oncology care that supports patients and whanau through every stage of their cancer journey.

Your role will span the cancer continuum, from diagnosis and treatment through to follow-up, survivorship and where needed, palliative care.

The successful candidate will support the implementation of local and national initiatives, and develop strong relationships within Health NZ, Te Whatu Ora, Waikato

Key Responsibilities of the role

Run nurse-led assessment and review clinics, promoting patient-centred decision making

Provide education, guidance, and holistic support to patients and whanau throughout treatment

Collaborate closely with surgeons and the wider multidisciplinary team during First Specialist Appointment (FSA) clinics

Support and manage patients on systemic anticancer therapies, ensuring safety, continuity, and optimal outcomes

Participate in departmental meetings, service development, and multidisciplinary meetings (MDMs) to support treatment planning and coordination

Monitor and streamline patient pathways to ensure care aligns with Faster Cancer Treatment (FCT) targets, working alongside the Regional Cancer Coordinator and FCT tracking team

Support quality improvement and research initiatives that enhance outcomes for patients within the head and neck tumour stream

Engage in ongoing professional development and leadership activities to advance oncology nursing practice

Click here to view the position description.

About the Service

Oncology CNSs are part of the Cancer and Chronic Conditions directorate.

You will be part of a forward-thinking oncology service that values innovation, collaboration, and compassion.

You will play a vital role in supporting Waikato to achieve its Faster Cancer Treatment (FCT) targets, helping ensure patients receive timely, high-quality care and that every step of the cancer pathway is smooth and well-coordinated.

About you

Have a current New Zealand Annual Practicing Certificate

Have a minimum of 2 years NZ hospital experience

Have a minimum of post graduate certificate

Have Oncology and / or surgical knowledge and experience

A full clean NZ drivers licence

Working at 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 diverse Maori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply please click Apply online or apply via our Waikato Careers website by clicking here .

All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11 : 59 pm on 13 November

If you have any questions about the role, please contact Shivani Kulkarni at

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.

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