JARRAD Waite will undergo hip surgery this week in a bid to return for the start of North Melbourne's finals campaign.

Waite enjoyed an outstanding start to 2016, kicking 27 goals in the first nine rounds, but has been troubled by hip problems almost ever since.

The spearhead has played just two games since round 12 and after returning from a week off against St Kilda last Saturday night he lasted barely more than two quarters before his hip flared up again.

North football club director Geoff Walsh said on Monday Waite would undergo a minor operation to determine the cause of his hip problems.

"Jarrad will be heading in for a very minor hip arthroscope this week so we can see exactly what's going on," Walsh said in a club statement.

"We've tried a non-invasive approach with his treatment but following on from the issues he had on Saturday night, we've decided this is the best course of action in order to have him ready for the pointy end of the season."

Walsh did not say how long Waite was expected to be sidelined, but it's believed North does not expect him to return before week one of the finals.

The former Blue's ability to take his spot alongside Drew Petrie and Ben Brown inside North's forward 50 this September will be crucial to the Roos' finals hopes.

Waite starred in North's two finals victories last season, kicking four goals against Richmond and three against the Sydney Swans.