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Following our feature on how our NZMedJobs & NZLocums recruitment team supports rural and urban practices across New Zealand, we’re taking a closer look at what that ‘impact’ looks like within general practice — through the story of Katikati Medical Centre, a Bay of Plenty clinic that has adapted and thrived despite ongoing GP shortages.
For over 20 years, our recruitment team has been connecting rural communities with the doctors and nurse practitioners they need. But behind every placement is a story of teamwork, resilience, and the drive to keep healthcare local. Katikati’s experience shows how those partnerships translate into real outcomes for patients and practice teams alike.
“Our success comes from being fluid and adaptable”
“Our success and resilience come from being fluid and adaptable to the environment around us,” says Keren Hoogwerf, Practice Manager at Katikati Medical Centre.
“Working in a rural practice is distinctly different from an urban one. We don’t have secondary services readily available, so some patient presentations are quite acute.”
To meet their community’s needs, the team closely monitors acute appointments while maintaining space for regular bookings. Earlier this year, Katikati introduced GP phone triage, initially as a pilot. The results were immediate: patients were directed to the right care pathway faster, and staff reported reduced stress and smoother workflows.
The practice also strengthened its relationship with Hato Hone St John, hosting emergency care training sessions for the wider team.
“These sessions not only educate our staff but also build confidence in critical situations,” Keren explains.
Overcoming challenges with recruitment support
Like many rural practices, Katikati Medical Centre has faced significant GP shortages — compounded by the retirement of two long-serving GP owners and the lingering pressures of COVID-19.
For a time, the practice had to close its books to new patients, reviewing that decision each month.
“If it hadn’t been for the support from NZLocums, we would not be in the stronger position we are today,” says Keren.
“Their team was responsive, understanding, and genuinely committed to connecting us with the right clinicians. After exhausting other recruitment avenues, NZLocums introduced us to several applicants — some have since joined our practice. Their guidance along the way has been invaluable.”
If your practice is seeking GP or NP support, NZMedJobs & NZLocums can help: [link]
“Continuity of care is critical for our patients”
Continuity of care allows patients to build trusted relationships with their GPs, ensuring consistent and informed treatment. The GP triage system helps preserve this by ensuring acute patients are seen promptly, while regular patients can still access their own GP when appropriate. Many appointments are for patients aged 65 and over, who may find travel to Tauranga difficult.
Accessibility remains a core focus for Katikati. The practice operates on weekends and most public holidays, providing acute care for those who might otherwise go without.
“Being open seven days a week gives reassurance and stability for our patients and their families,” Keren says. “It’s about being there when our community needs us.”
Practice-led success, supported by NZMedJobs & NZLocums
Katikati Medical Centre’s story demonstrates how partnership can shape rural healthcare. With our recruitment team’s support, the practice has been able to sustain its workforce, maintain quality care, and focus on developing services that meet the community’s needs.
“The greatest reward,” says Keren, “is knowing that our patients can rely on us — that we’re here, and we’ll keep being here.”
