Internationally-trained doctors are jumping at a chance to boost the country's health workforce

The Medical Council is increasing the number of spots available for New Zealand registration exams, to up to 180 next year.

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti, says he's also instructed Health New Zealand to move to secure the clinical placements needed, particularly in general practice.

He says a lack of exam spots and clinical placements, have repeatedly been barriers to employment in the health system.