Optometrist

An optometrist is a registered health professional who looks after your eye health and vision. They:

• check your eyesight and eye health
• prescribe glasses or contact lenses if needed
• treat minor eye problems, like infections or allergies
• refer you to an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) if more advanced treatment is needed.

Some optometrists can also prescribe eye medicines such as drops and ointments.

You should book an appointment with an optometrist if you:

• need a regular eye check-up or an updated glasses/contact lens prescription
• notice changes in your vision
• have symptoms such as eye redness, irritation, or pain
• want to check for eye conditions linked to diabetes, high blood pressure, or family history. 

Optometrists are often your first point of contact for any eye health concerns. They’ll refer you to an ophthalmologist (a specialist eye doctor) if needed. 

Optometrists provide a wide range of eye care services, including:

• eye exams and vision tests
• prescribing and fitting glasses or contact lenses
• diagnosing and treating common eye conditions such as dry eye and conjunctivitis
• diagnosing and monitoring eye conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration
• monitoring eye health for people with conditions such as diabetes
• referring you to an ophthalmologist for surgery or further care when needed.

Some optometrists also offer:

• medicines for eye infections and allergies
• vision rehabilitation – providing devices and advice for people with low vision
• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) visual assessments. 

In Aotearoa New Zealand, optometrists:

• complete a five-year Bachelor of Optometry degree at the University of Auckland
• must be registered and hold a current practising certificate. 

Most optometrists work in private practices or optical stores (where you get your eye tests and glasses). Some also work in public hospitals, especially for more complex cases or specialist eye care services. 

To find a registered optometrist near you, visit the New Zealand Association of Optometrists website(external link). 

You may come across other health professionals involved in your eye care. 

• An optician helps you choose glasses and lenses that have been prescribed by your optometrist or ophthalmologist, and fits and adjusts these for you.
• An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats serious eye diseases and performs eye surgery.
• An orthoptist specialises in eye movement and coordination, often working with children or people who have had a stroke. An orthoptist often works closely with an ophthalmologist.