About James

Dr James Watt mopping the floor at the hospital

Dr James Watt – Orthopaedic Surgeon in Whangārei

James started his journey with a passion for helping others and a commitment to excellence. With a history of extensive training and experience, he is known for his dedication to treating patients in both public and private service.  His specialist training was completed at Tygerberg Academic Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa, followed by further sub-specialist training with a special interest in spine, hand and hip surgery.

James has been involved with serving the community through public service since 2007 and started his part-time private practice in 2015. James and his family moved to New Zealand in 2019 when he joined the team at the Northland District Health Board as a consultant orthopaedic surgeon.  He is constantly adding to his repertoire of surgical skills, always hard at work to achieve surgical excellence. James regularly attends conferences both locally and abroad and keeps up to date with the latest advances by attending courses and visiting fellow surgical colleagues who are masters in their field.

As a family man, James brings a personal touch to his practice, ensuring each patient receives the highest level of care and compassion whilst still making time to be with his lovely wife and two daughters. He loves the outdoors and all it has to offer, understanding how even a small injury or dysfunction can challenge one's daily activities. James does not hesitate to get his hands dirty, literally, in order to get the best for his patients!

Degrees and affiliations

MBChB(UP)MMed(Orth)(SU)FRCS(Orth)(SA)
Full vocational registration with the New Zealand Medical Council (80774)
Member of the following associations:

  • New Zealand Orthopaedic Association
  • New Zealand Orthopaedic Spine Society
  • New Zealand Society for Surgery of the Hand
  • New Zealand Orthopaedic Trauma Society

Authorised to perform red listed procedures funded by the ACC and contracted with all the major private medical insurance companies.

James performs his surgeries at Southern Cross Northland Surgical Centre and Kensington Hospital.

Dr James Watt with his family outdoor
Dr James Watt working outside on the farm
Dr James Watt horse riding with his family