Paramedicine
New Zealand offers a broad range of Paramedic opportunities in a range of environments from fast-paced metropolitan centres to community-focused healthcare in urban, rural and remote settings.
Also known as: Intensive Care Ambulance Paramedic, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
About the role
In recognition of the increased demand for emergency ambulance services, the Government has provided significant additional financial support in the last three years for emergency ambulance service providers, leading to an increased demand for qualified Paramedics across the wider health sector, as well as private service providers since Paramedic registration was introduced in 2020.
Salary information
Salary
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Paramedics with up to five years’ experience usually earn $78K-$86K per year.
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Paramedics with more experience and training can typically earn between $86K-$103K per year, whilst intensive care Paramedics can earn between $93K-$103K annually.
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If eligible, a minimum of a 3% superannuation contribution from employer. Find out more here.
Required qualifications & registration
Qualifications:
As a Paramedic you usually need to have:
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a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in paramedicine.
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a full Class 1 driver's licence.
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an Authority to Practice, issued by an employer.
Registration with the Paramedic Council:
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Paramedics are registered health practitioners in Aotearoa New Zealand, regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 (HPCA Act).
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Te Kaunihera Manapou | Paramedic Council is the authority responsible for regulating paramedics. They define the scope of practice, which outlines what paramedics are qualified and authorised to do.
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To legally work as a paramedic in New Zealand, individuals must be registered with Te Kaunihera and hold a current practising certificate issued by them.
Other helpful links:
- Paramedic Council of New Zealand https://paramediccouncil.org.nz
- Central Air Ambulance Rescue Limited www.rescue.org.nz
- Helicopter Emergency Medical Service www.hems.co.nz
- Northern Rescue Helicopters Limited www.nest.org.nz
- St John www.stjohn.org.nz
- Wellington Free Ambulance www.wfa.org.nz
Roles & responsibilities
Roles and responsibilities are guided by level of training, scope of practice, and registration with the Paramedic Council of New Zealand under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act.
Key roles and responsibilities may include:
Emergency response:
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Respond to 111 emergency calls to assess and treat patients at the scene of accidents, medical emergencies, or other incidents.
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Use clinical expertise to stabilise patients with life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest, severe trauma, or respiratory distress.
Patient assessment and diagnosis:
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Perform comprehensive physical examinations and assessments, including checking vital signs, identifying symptoms, and determining the severity of medical issues.
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Use diagnostic equipment such as ECG monitors, glucometers, and pulse oximeters.
Administering medical treatment
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Provide advanced life support and administer medications within their scope of practice.
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Perform procedures like intubation, defibrillation, wound care, and managing fractures.
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Deliver pain relief through medications or techniques like splinting.
Transportation of patients:
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Safely transport patients to hospitals or other medical facilities, ensuring continuous care during transit.
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Communicate with hospital staff to provide a detailed handover of the patient’s condition and treatment provided.
Air Ambulance and remote care:
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Paramedics, especially Intensive Care Paramedics often work in air ambulance services, attending to critically ill or injured patients in remote or hard-to-reach locations.
Public Health and Community Services
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Educate the public on first aid, health promotion, and emergency preparedness.
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Provide non-emergency care, such as welfare checks for vulnerable individuals.
Event medical coverage
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Offer on-site medical support at public events, sports matches, and concerts to address any medical issues that arise.
Documentation and communication:
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Accurately document patient interactions, including treatments administered, for medical and legal purposes.
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Communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams, often in high-pressure situations.
Professional development:
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Maintain current registration by meeting ongoing professional development and competency requirements as set out by the Paramedic Council.
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Engage in continuous learning to stay updated with advancements in medical procedures and technology.
Ethical and professional conduct:
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Adhere to the Code of Conduct for paramedics in New Zealand, ensuring patient confidentiality, informed consent, and culturally safe care.
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Work within their legal scope of practice and seek advice or refer patients when care exceeds their capabilities.
Internationally qualified candidates
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Our application process
Looking to move to New Zealand to work as a Paramedic?
Great news! Paramedics are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List which means you are eligible for a fast-tracked Straight to Residence Visa. This means you and your family can apply for New Zealand residency before you arrive, provided you have a job offer from an accredited employer, like us!
Explore Aotearoa
New Zealand - Aotearoa has been in the top 5 countries in the Global Peace Index every year since it launched in 2009, and has a broad range of places to call home, from the bustling metropolis of our main centres, to the easy-going vibe of our coastal or rural communities.
Find out more information about what part of our beautiful country is the best fit for you.
Te Tai Tokerau | Northland
Population: 194,600
Northland is a beautiful and diverse region of Aotearoa, New Zealand with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in water sports, historic sites, natural beauty or ancient Kauri trees—Northland has it all!
Waitematā
Population: 650,000
Waitematā is the largest and one of the most rapidly growing Districts serving the largest population of all Health New Zealand. Waitematā offers a balanced lifestyle that combines the convenience of city living with the natural beauty and community spirit of suburban life.
Te Toka Tumai Auckland
Population: 500,000
Auckland the "City of Sails" is Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest city and commercial hub. It’s where metropolitan sophistication meets breathtaking natural beauty. Auckland is filled with a variety of warm and welcoming communities, packed with new places to explore.
Counties Manukau
Population: 500,000
Counties Manukau is a vibrant place where there's never a dull moment! Living and working here ensures you're always close to amenities, events and nature. You'll never run out of places to visit or things to do.
Hauora a Toi | Bay of Plenty
Population: 255,110
The Bay of Plenty is a place of beautiful harbours, long surf beaches and an easygoing lifestyle. We showcase the perfect place to explore a wide range of nature-based pursuits – this gives the people of the Bay of Plenty the chance for a better work-life balance.
Waikato
Population: 425,000
The Waikato region is known for its natural beauty, rich Māori culture, and agricultural heritage with something to offer visitors of all interests.
Tairāwhiti | Gisborne
Population: 48,000
In family-friendly Tairāwhiti you will experience an easier pace to life that allows you to pause and reflect, and enjoy a true work-life balance. Gisborne’s relative isolation is its charm, surrounded by beaches & nature - don't worry though! Larger cities are only a quick flight away.
Lakes
Population: 110,000
The Lakes District is well known for its geothermal activity and natural hot springs. The area is located in the central North Island and is home to many geothermal attractions, such as geysers, hot mud pools, and steam vents. Visitors can also relax in the region's natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties.
Taranaki
Population: 130,000
Taranaki is a magical place with a majestic mountain at its heart, including the rugged coastline that's world-renowned for its surf. Its residents' love of art and culture, cafes and outdoor living mean it's also fantastic to work—and play!
Te Matau a Māui | Hawke's Bay
Population: 180,000
Known for its world-class wineries, stunning beaches and temperate climate, Hawke’s Bay boasts a lifestyle that is unmatched. The region is a popular destination for food and wine tourism, hiking, cycling and cultural events such as the annual Art Deco festival.
Whanganui
Population: 65,000
Whanganui has something for everyone. Our centrally located region offers access to outdoor activities such as kayaking, skiing, surfing, tramping, cycling, fishing and hunting. Nestled between two snow-capped mountains, on the banks of Whanganui River there is always plenty to do and explore.
Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley
Population: 445,000
Wellington, the capital city of Aotearoa New Zealand, is a bustling and diverse hub of culture and cosmopolitanism, renowned for its lively cafés, restaurants, and internationally acclaimed sporting and cultural events, all set against the stunning backdrop of a natural harbour. To the north of Wellington lie the regions of Porirua, Kapiti, and Hutt Valley.
Te Pae Hauora o Ruahine o Tararua | MidCentral
Population: 190,000
Get the best of both worlds - the perfect blend of rural and city living with the mountains, city and sea at your fingertips.
Wairarapa
Population: 48,000
From rugged coastlines, boutique vineyards to lush forests, Wairarapa is a slice of paradise for those who love the outdoors and seek a peaceful environment to recharge after a rewarding day's work.
Nelson Marlborough
Population: 150,000
Nelson Marlborough has been dubbed the artistic capital with a thriving urban centre and one of New Zealand's sunniest regions.
Te Tai o Poutini | West Coast
Population: 32,000
Te Tai o Poutini West Coast has views of both the mountain ranges and the ocean! It is an untamed natural wilderness of beautiful rivers and rainforests, glaciers and geological treasures.
Waitaha | Canterbury
Population: 600,000
The Canterbury region is a great place to live and work due to its natural beauty, vibrant economy, cultural diversity, strong community, and high quality of life.
South Canterbury
Population: 62,000
The South Canterbury District is an area of stunning beauty with great lifestyle opportunities, a safe and welcoming family-friendly environment, affordable living, excellent educational opportunities and a wide range of cultural and sporting facilities.
Southern
Population: 350,000
Well known for its beautiful natural scenery, which includes towering mountains, stunning fjords, majestic glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. The region is also famous for its friendly communities, charming towns, and vibrant cities such as Dunedin and Invercargill.
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Photo location: Nelson - Credit: Miles Holden |
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