Allergist and immunologist

Allergist and immunologist

Allergists and immunologists diagnose, treat and help prevent allergies and diseases that affect the immune system.

Also known as

Clinical immunologist, immunologist, paediatric immunologist and allergist

AUT programmes

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours but may work shifts or be on call
  • Usually work in hospitals and health centres
  • May do emotionally demanding work
  • Need to identify and solve problems, work well under pressure and communicate well

Typical tasks

  • Diagnose medical conditions
  • Treat chronic diseases or disorders
  • Order medical diagnostic or clinical tests
  • Explain medical procedures or test results to patients or family members
  • Develop medical treatment plans
  • Prescribe medications
  • Record patient medical histories
  • Examine patients to assess general physical condition
  • Evaluate treatment options to guide medical decisions
  • Analyse test data or images to inform diagnosis or treatment

Salary information

$185.4K-$268K
LowerMost commonUpper
$185.4K$206K-$247.3K$268K

Tips from AUT graduates

Professional registration

Medical Council of New Zealand

enquiry@mcnz.org.nz

0800 286 801

https://www.mcnz.org.nz

Outlook

Allergists are in ongoing demand in New Zealand as allergy and immune‑related conditions increase across all age groups. Growth is influenced by population change, environmental factors, and greater awareness of food allergy and anaphylaxis. Pressure on specialist services and workforce shortages across healthcare mean allergists play a key role in improving access to diagnosis, treatment, and long‑term care.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Strong clinical reasoning and diagnostic skills
  • Deep knowledge of immunology and allergic conditions
  • Clear communication with patients, families and care teams
  • Careful attention to patient safety and risk management
  • Empathy and cultural awareness when supporting long‑term conditions
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development and research‑informed practice

Further study options