More than 100 Bay of Plenty resident doctors across both Tauranga and Whakatane hospitals have walked off the job this morning.

About 235 planned surgeries and outpatient appointments are expected to be affected by the three-day strike which began at 7am and will run up until 8am on Friday.

It's the second strike organised by the New Zealand Resident Doctors Association, after negotiations with country's 20 district health boards stalled over resident doctors' current working conditions.

The Bay of Plenty District Health Board currently employs 164 resident doctors across both Tauranga and Whakatane Hospitals, of which, 116 are members of the NZRDA.

In a statement, the board says due to the strike patients may have to wait longer for services in Tauranga and Whakatane Hospitals.

'Some scheduled elective surgery and outpatient clinics have been postponed so clinical staff can focus on those most in need.

'We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your co-operation.”

Last week, BOPDHB Medical Director Dr Hugh Lees told SunLivethey're prepared for this week's strike, with contingency planning taking place since the NZRDA notified the board that the industrial action would be taking place.

The BOPDHB has all shifts affected by the strike covered, with either junior and/or senior medical staff as appropriate. However, it's likely the Emergency Departments at both Tauranga and Whakatane hospitals will be impacted greatest.

If you are unsure if your scheduled appointment has been affected by the strike contact the BOPDHB on 0800-333-477, between 8am and 4.30pm.

If you require medical attention for a situation that is not life threatening call your GP clinic or phone the free HealthLine on 0800 611 116 for health advice in the first instance.

In an emergency call 111.

Resident Doctors, also known as House Officers, Registrars or Resident Medical Officers, are registered medical practitioners and range in experience from first year qualified doctors to those with more than 12 years' experience.

Bay doctors will be among more than 3000 NZRDA members involved in the strike which is affecting 18 of New Zealand's 20 district health boards.

The NZRDA says some resident doctors are made to work unsafe hours 12 days in a row, and night shifts of seven days in a row. It is seeking a maximum of four nights in a row followed by three days off and a maximum 10 days in a row with four days off.

For more information about the strike visit the Bay of Plenty District Health Board website.