From Emergency Medicine to Eye Surgery: Dr Zea Munro’s Path to Ophthalmology
Dr Zea Munro didn’t initially envision a career in ophthalmology. Her early medical interests leaned towards emergency medicine and anaesthesia—until a pivotal ophthalmology rotation shifted her perspective. “I fell in love,” she recalls.
Even in her youth, medicine was a clear ambition. “My nearest and dearest tell me I always wanted to be a doctor.”
Today, Dr Munro is a cataract and refractive surgeon at Fendalton Eye Clinic, drawing inspiration from Sir Harold Ridley, the pioneer behind the first intraocular lens implantation 75 years ago. Reflecting on her journey, she shares: “If I’d known earlier how exciting ophthalmology could be, I might have found my way here sooner. I hope my teaching helped medical students discover their passion for eyes a little earlier than I did.”
Beyond her clinical work, Zea enjoys travelling and quietly celebrates a few academic accolades that may surprise her peers. “Many know I received the Hauora Māori class prize at graduation and continue to advocate in this space, researching cultural barriers to ophthalmic care. Fewer know I also won the psychiatry prize—I’ll let my colleagues decide if that fits!”
Fendalton Eye Clinic is proud to acknowledge Dr Munro’s recent contributions to New Zealand Optics Magazine, where she was invited to share her perspectives on international refractive survey studies.
Dr Munro’s insights continue to shape the future of ophthalmic care, inspiring both patients and fellow professionals.
