A Better Place to Nurse
Working in Aotearoa New Zealand
Across our incredible country, you can explore our snow-capped mountains hiking or skiing, check out our white sandy beaches with the local wildlife or visit the local café for brunch. Whatever you’re into you can do it all while working as part of Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest health workforce.
Most of our workforce receive a minimum of four weeks annual leave usually working a set 40 hours a week, with flexible employee conditions. This leaves plenty of time to balance work with fun and get out to enjoy all that Aotearoa, New Zealand has to offer.
We're looking for all nursing specialties nationwide so what are you waiting for?
It’s easier than ever to join us in Aotearoa!
Our government has recently updated Tier 1 of our Green List roles to now include Registered Nurses, Midwives and Specialist Doctors as well as several other health professions. Being on Tier 1 of the Green List allows you to make Straight to Residence applications with Immigration New Zealand. Check out Immigration New Zealand for more information.
Education & Opportunities
Aotearoa, New Zealand has a flexible working environment with plenty of roles available. You can also take up education opportunities within nursing and the change to Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand will also enable greater flexibility for movement as well as progression.
Our Health System
The health sector in Aotearoa, New Zealand is a progressive working environment, aligning with our progressive values overall. On the 1st of July 2022, Aotearoa, New Zealand moved to a new national health system which will create a more equitable, accessible, cohesive and people-centered system that will improve the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders.
Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand aims to provide consistent, equitable, quality care to all New Zealanders when they need it. Who you are or where you live should not determine the range and quality of services you receive.
How Kiwi Health Jobs works for You!
When you submit an application, you will be redirected to Kiwi Health Jobs, a centralised recruitment portal that is owned and operated by Te Whatu Ora. The Kiwi Health Jobs team are here to simplify the recruitment process by providing guidance, answering queries and connecting you to the right people in the Districts that you are most interested to work in.
Kiwi Health Jobs also advertises a wide range of vacancies across Health Sector, that includes vacancies at public, not-for-profit and private employers.
Locations across NZ
Across our incredible country, you can find everything from city living to cheeky wildlife, unique landmarks, and rich culture. From the winterless north to the stunning scenery of the south, there is a safe, friendly neighbourhood for everyone.
Northern Region
Located in the northern part of Aotearoa, New Zealand Northland district is home to Northland, Auckland, Waitematā and Counties Manukau District Hospitals.
Northern Region
Located in the northern part of Aotearoa, New Zealand Northland district is home to Northland, Auckland, Waitematā and Counties Manukau District Hospitals.
Experience the best of big city and rural living within a short distance of each other. You are always close to the water wherever you go in the "winterless north" with scenic coastal areas offering a range of recreational activities, surrounded by nature, beautiful beaches and regional parks. Within a two hour drive or 25 minute flight from rural areas you are in the international hub of Auckland, where you can see the iconic Sky Tower that overlooks the Viaduct Harbour full of superyachts and lined with hospitality and shopping venues. Northland district has good schools for children and university for further learning, a multicultural population and cultural diversity experiences for everyone.
Te Manawa Taki
Te Manawa Taki meaning the heartbeat is the name gifted and agreed upon to represent the region encompassing the five District Hospitals of Waikato, Lakes, Bay of Plenty, Tairāwhiti and Taranaki.
Te Manawa Taki
Te Manawa Taki meaning the heartbeat is the name gifted and agreed upon to represent the region encompassing the five District Hospitals of Waikato, Lakes, Bay of Plenty, Tairāwhiti and Taranaki.
If you're looking for sun you will find the most sunshine hours in Aotearoa, New Zealand in Te Manawa Taki, one of the most progressive Districts. Home to the mighty Waikato River, lakes, renowned geothermal activity mountains, ski and surf, you can do it all in the same day! If that's not for you there are art trails, festivals, award-winning museums and galleries and who could forget world class Rugby? There's something for everyone. Including amazing communities to raise a family, without the long commute to work.
Central Region
In the centre of Aotearoa, New Zealand you will find MidCentral, Whanganui, Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley, Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa hospitals.
Central Region
In the centre of Aotearoa, New Zealand you will find MidCentral, Whanganui, Capital & Coast/Hutt Valley, Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa hospitals.
Known for Art Deco buildings, great wineries, craft beer, restaurants and its picturesque scenery this district has it all. Rivers, forested hills snow-capped mountains, native bushland and city living are never far away. Fishing and hunting are as accessible as the mountains for those who enjoy tramping, skiing and cycling. There are a good selection of schools and plenty of areas to take the family out to play for the day. Access to airports makes traveling nationally and internationally an absolute breeze.
Te Waipounamu
Te Waipounamu is the South Island of Aotearoa, New Zealand and has Nelson Marlborough, Canterbury, South Canterbury, West Coast and Southern District hospitals.
Te Waipounamu
Te Waipounamu has Nelson Marlborough, Canterbury, South Canterbury, West Coast and Southern district hospitals.
World famous for its adventure tourism, Te Waipounamu is the South Island of Aotearoa, New Zealand. Mountains, lakes and glaciers run along the entire length of the island. National Parks, spectacular waterfalls, vineyards, orchards and lots of sunshine for trails, skiing and ocean kayaking. With impressive rock formations and rare wildlife, here, a weekend feels like a luxury holiday. Urban areas have an abundance of cafes, restaurants, universities, tertiary teaching hospitals and big city living close to those weekend get-away locations.
Testimonials
Our Nurses make a difference to the communities, whānau (family) and individuals they support. Here’s what some of them have to say about working as a Nurse in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Kristy Hazelwood
"Nursing in NZ is quite progressive in terms of focusing on patient care because we consider our patient’s spiritual and physical health, their wellbeing and whānau (family)"
Kristy Hazelwood
Nursing in NZ is quite progressive in terms of focusing on patient care because we consider our patient’s spiritual and physical health, their wellbeing and whānau (family).
Everyone here is just amazing to work with and people are very inviting. Our teams are always willing to help out, especially when it comes to education.
Outside of work, me and my family find it easy to do activities, like going on hikes or visiting one of the many Lakes around New Zealand. During summer, there are lots of festivals.
If you are thinking about coming to NZ, why not?! Just do it, you only have one life and you’ll regret it if you don’t.
Alicia Osland
"I think Aotearoa is an amazing place with great people and I wouldn't live anywhere else. It's beautiful, it's safe and I can send my children to school without any fear."
Alicia Osland
I think Aotearoa is an amazing place with great people and I wouldn't live anywhere else. It's beautiful, it's safe and I can send my children to school without any fear. The outdoors are just so beautiful, with blue skies – it is called the land of the long white cloud.
I love Nursing in New Zealand, it’s a real privilege to work here with a great team. I find that the collaboration with the multi-disciplinary team is quite unique – it’s a real team approach. It’s not doctors ordering nurses around, we just all get together to give the patients the best care.
New Zealand is a magical amazing place. The beaches are pristine and there is so much wildlife. We love seeing the little blue penguins!
Sherwin Echaves
"What I like about nursing in NZ is the challenge that it brings and the culture. I’m part of a learning group that provides hands-on teaching to new and current staff to refresh their clinical skills."
Sherwin Echaves
What I like about nursing in NZ is the challenge that it brings and the culture. I’m part of a learning group that provides hands-on teaching to new and current staff to refresh their clinical skills. It is less hierarchical here compared to where I have come from. Everyone listens and provides their input for interventions or procedures for the patient.
When I’m not at work you would see me with my child at the park. Living in New Zealand, you can have the city life and then within half an hour’s drive, you can easily access nature!
People in New Zealand are one of the best in the world, they are kind and very generous here. You can walk on the sidewalk and just say hi and even talk to strangers. It’s a good place for a kid to grow or to pursue a family.
Let us help you get here...
We’re looking for nurses to fill positions across all of our health system. Your skills are in demand right now working as part of Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest health workforce. Whether you’re bringing your whānau (family) or making the journey alone we’re here to help you!
What you need
Before you become part of Te Whatu Ora there are essential requirements for nursing in Aotearoa, New Zealand. We can support you along the way!
What you need
Immigration information
The New Zealand Government is actively encouraging skilled workers from overseas to work in New Zealand. Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand is an Accredited Employer, we are able to employ migrants via the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Once you become part of the Te Whatu Ora whānau we’ll support you with settling into New Zealand and your new role.
To familiarise yourself with the resources, tools, and guidance offered by New Zealand Immigration and explore visa options for you and your whānau head to their website.
Nursing Registration information
To work as a nurse in Aotearoa, New Zealand you must become registered to practice and hold an Annual Practicing Certificate. To practice in Aotearoa, New Zealand you must be vaccinated against COVID-19.
Internationally qualified nurses who meet Nursing Council of New Zealand standards may apply to become registered to practice in New Zealand.
To find out more information including the details you’ll need before you apply, please read the information outlined at the Nursing Council of New Zealand.
How we can help
Once you become part of the Te Whatu Ora whānau (family), we’ll support you with getting to Aotearoa, New Zealand and settling into your new role.
How we can help
Relocation expenses information
Relocation packages are available and can help with expenses incurred in moving to Aotearoa, New Zealand. If you are eligible there may be standard relocation support available for expenses such as your flights, incidentals or moving costs. Your employer will discuss what they can help with and how you might be eligible.
Get ready for New Zealand
Check out this link to create a personalised list of all the things you will need to do to get ready to move to Aotearoa New Zealand.
If there is anything on your list you need help with, let us know!
Make Aotearoa home!
We have some helpful links - discover information about settling into the Kiwi workplace and make your move a success.
Make Aotearoa home!
Making Aotearoa, New Zealand your home. Schooling, housing, lifestyle, whānau, and handy information
It's time to experience the Kiwi lifestyle for yourself...we have many overseas health professionals who have chosen to make Aotearoa, New Zealand home. Browse the links below and discover information about settling into the Kiwi workplace and make your move a success.
Guide to New Zealand Workplaces
Personalised Checklist for your Journey
If there is anything we’ve missed, ask us a question, we’re here to help!
Your Nursing Career
Nursing in Aotearoa, New Zealand provides opportunities to be in one of the most respected professions caring for patients and whānau (family) at their most vulnerable time. New Zealand nurses are highly respected for the care that they deliver with a culture that supports career progression and encourages continual growth. You’ll be supported to thrive through our many professional development opportunities and have the chance to share your expertise
IQN CAP Funding
Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs) who are required to complete a Competency Assessment Programme (CAP) to become registered to work in Aotearoa, New Zealand can apply for reimbursement of up to NZ$10,000 by filling out an Expression of Interest before the CAP course starts.
Reimbursement of costs will be considered when IQNs have completed their course and can provide evidence of the following:
- Successful completion of a Competence Assessment Programme offered by a provider accredited by the Nursing Council of New Zealand that begin from 1 August 2022
- Registration from the Nursing Council of New Zealand
- A confirmed offer of employment in a direct patient-facing role in health settings such as hospitals, aged care, GP practices, mental health and addictions.
- Required work visa to work in Aotearoa, New Zealand
- Confirmation of a bonding agreement with the employer for up to two years.
Returning to Practice
If you have been out of practice for 5 years or more, then the New Zealand Nursing Council (NZNC) can help you return to work. All you need to do is let NZNC know what you have been doing since you last practiced and provide an up to date CV.
If you are planning to return to Aotearoa, New Zealand from overseas, to support your application you will need a Letter of Good Standing or Verification of Good Standing from the overseas regulatory authority with which you have been registered, that states the period during which you were registered and affirm that no disciplinary action has or is to be taken against you. If you have practiced in a country that has no regulatory authority, the NZNC can help you through this process.
Are you a Critical Care Nurse?
There are 26 units across the country that provide critical care services and offer a diverse range of intensive care settings. There is also an extensive flight retrieval service which transfers patients to the center that can provide the required care.
Units in the larger urban regions can provide cardiac, trauma, neuro, paediatric or general intensive care. Some of our larger units also incorporate burns, spinal, cardiothoracic, and paediatrics, including the national ECMO service.
In smaller centers, or more rural areas you could find yourself working in a mixed ICU and HDU space looking after unwell children, long-term medical patients, or an acute surgical patient. These units are well supported by the larger units when more complex input is required.
Continual growth and education is encouraged, and assistance is provided to nurses wishing to study and gain further critical care qualifications. Collective agreements include paid study days for the purposes of professional development and the New Zealand Nursing Organisation and DHBs have committed to achieve pay equity for all members of our nursing workforce.
Our ICU teams work in a collaborative manner, and understand interdisciplinary working is paramount to the patient journey, and to offering patient and whanau centered care.
Health Settings in NZ
Nurses across the country have an important part to play in providing great health outcomes for New Zealanders.
Consistently ranked towards the top globally Aotearoa, New Zealand’s health system is high quality health care with a mixed model of free services and subsidised - where you pay a fee to cover some of the cost. We’re looking for nurses to fill positions across all of these settings of our health system.
Hospital
You will enjoy working in a supportive, close-knit team focused on improving and optimising health and independence outcomes for patients.
Hospital
You will enjoy working in a supportive, close-knit team focused on improving and optimising health and independence outcomes for patients.
Our Hospitals are diverse teams, we recognise that a diverse and inclusive workforce achieves the best outcomes for our patients and communities.
Staff have the ability to function well in a multi-disciplinary team while having the confidence to be a strong advocate for either stable or acutely unwell patients under their care.
Aged Residential Care
Working in Aged Residential Care allows nurses to care and support to impact the lives of older New Zealanders and provide a positive aging experience.
Aged Residential Care
Working in Aged Residential Care allows nurses to impact the lives of older New Zealanders and provide a positive aging experience.
You will be working in a nurse led service where you will have the opportunity to practice at full scope, using your clinical knowledge and judgment you’ll provide care and support for residents having a meaningful impact on their lives and their families.
Nurses in aged residential care provide care that reflects a resident’s individuality and their right to choice, respect and dignity.
As a registered nurse you will be responsible to oversee the care provided by the caregiver workforce, coordinate and plan daily interventions for individuals and provide expert assessment to inform their ongoing care.
NZ Blood and Organ Service (NZBS)
Revitalise your nursing passion and feel a sense of pride being an essential aspect of providing a life-saving service to New Zealanders by collecting, processing and distributing blood and blood products.
NZ Blood and Organ Service (NZBS)
Revitalise your nursing passion and feel a sense of pride being an essential aspect of providing a life-saving service to New Zealanders by collecting, processing and distributing blood and blood products.
Working for the New Zealand Blood and Organ Service (NZBS), our Registered Nurses undertake donor health assessments and perform whole blood, plasma and platelet collection procedures. If leadership is your forte, some of our Registered Nurses proceed to coordinate, manage, and conduct collection sessions. Keep your patient skills honed with the Therapeutic Apheresis and Therapeutic Venesection teams, autonomously caring for patients in our hemochromatosis clinic or completing hospital-based stem cell harvests and plasma exchanges. As a nurse at NZBS you will enjoy a better work-life balance (no nights!) while working with healthy donors. Besides being able to participate in professional development and advancement, the position also entails the opportunity to travel through the country (on mobile blood drives).
Primary / Community
Working alongside a dedicated team of Registered Nurses and doctors to ensure patients gain the best possible health outcomes and providing first contact focused care to families or individuals.
Primary / Community
Working alongside a dedicated team of Registered Nurses and Doctors to ensure patients gain the best possible health outcomes and providing first contact focused care to whānau (families) or individuals.
As the name suggests, Primary Health care is often the first stop for people requiring health care in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Rewarding and challenging, with something new and interesting happening every day. Primary Health Care is care in the community setting such as General Practices, Māori Health Services, Pacific Health Services and other community based health services
In most cases patients will book an appointment to see Primary Health Care providers. In this setting you might be required to provide in-depth triage assessments of patients coming into the clinic, deliver patient education, vaccinations and plastering wound care.
Culture and Diversity
Nestled in the southwest of the Pacific Ocean Aotearoa, New Zealand is the bicultural (Māori and non Māori ) home to approximately 5.1 Million people. You will find that the communities within our beautiful land are a melting pot of nationalities from the pacific to the world!
We want our workforce to reflect our communities improving the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders so no matter where you are from there is a place for you to make a difference to our communities, whānau (families) and individuals
Māori culture is part of life in Aotearoa, New Zealand, you will feel the manaakitanga of our people. Manaakitanga describes the way we welcome our guests and provide hospitality to them, this is something you will experience from all New Zealanders.
Here are some important aspects of biculturalism in Aotearoa, New Zealand:
- The importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) in our laws.
- Te Reo Māori – Māori language as one of the official languages of Aotearoa, New Zealand.
- Tikanga Māori (the right practice) we work towards preservation and celebration of Māori having equal status.
- Land ownership – we acknowledge our history and present populations and residency.
- Equal opportunities for Māori to succeed.
Photo credit: Miles Holden
Frequently Asked Questions
Relocating and Life in Aotearoa, New Zealand
What can I expect the lifestyle to be like when I get there?
You can expect a balanced lifestyle with great career opportunities and plenty of time for recreational activities.
New Zealanders enjoy plenty of outdoor activities such as skiing and hiking on our beautiful mountains and water sports on our many picturesque lakes and beaches. Arts and culture also provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy a musical or theater performance. Summer is a time to attend a festival or visit some of the world's best food and wine venues.
What’s the cost of living?
This handy Cost of Living Calculator can help you compare the cost of living in Aotearoa, New Zealand depending on where you are coming from and what part of Aotearoa you plan to settle in.
Is there relocation support?
If you are eligible there may be standard relocation support available for expenses such as your flights to Aotearoa, New Zealand. Your employer will discuss what they can help with and how you might be eligible.
Do I have to be able to drive?
No however in some rural areas access to public transport may be limited and in some community based roles you may require a driver's license.
How long will it take before I can move to Aotearoa, New Zealand?
This depends on your individual circumstances, you need to get your Nursing registration, secure a job, and make your visa application. The best thing to do to speed things along is to understand what you need to do.
Making a move abroad is a big decision, and you may not be ready to make the move – just yet! We can work with you without pressure or obligation to proceed until you are ready to take the next step.
What if I'm not ready yet?
Making a move abroad is a big decision, and you may not be ready to make the move – just yet!
We can work with you without pressure or obligation to proceed until you are ready to take the next step.
Let us know by asking a question above.
Nursing Registration & Work
What is the process for getting nursing registration in New Zealand?
The Nursing Council of New Zealand has a handy self assessment tool that can help you understand how to become registered to practice in Aotearoa, New Zealand
International Nursing Registration Process
What is the new Competency Assessment Programme fund?
The Competency Assessment Programme (CAP) fund has been established to help reduce the cost for Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs) who need to complete a Competency Assessment Programme (CAP) to gain registration in Aotearoa New Zealand.
You can find out more about what is included, the criteria, and how to apply here.
I only have a diploma - can I get registration?
There is a process through the Nursing Council of New Zealand to apply for registration. This will guide you on what will be required.
Do I need an English language test (IELTS)?
In order to register with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, they must be satisfied that you are able to communicate effectively, and that your ability to communicate in and comprehend English is sufficient to protect the health and safety of the public.
If your education led to, or you have current nursing registration in the United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Canada or the United States of America that required you to pass an English language test you may be able to apply for a waiver.
To find out more visit the Nursing Council of New Zealand website
Why does New Zealand need so many nurses?
Along with investing in better health outcomes and an aging population Aotearoa, New Zealand also has a commitment to Safe Staffing in our workplaces, ensuring patient safety.
Do I have to belong to the Union?
Employees choose to join a union. Unions negotiate collective employment agreements and advocate on behalf of employees, working together in the interest of the individual, the collective and the broader community.
Their purpose is to secure jobs, improve terms and conditions of employment, and achieve a better quality of life for workers.
Salary & Benefits
What is the salary?
Pay for registered nurses varies depending on their qualification experience duties and responsibilities.
The link below shows pay rates as agreed in the current NZNO Multi-Employer Collective Agreement (MECA)
What are the shift time penal rates?
Under the Nursing Collective Agreement there is:
- Weekend rate of time one half (0.5) in addition to the ordinary hourly rate
- Public Holiday rate of time one (T1) in addition to the ordinary hourly rate
- Night rate at quarter time (T0.25) in addition to the ordinary hourly rate
What are the leave entitlements?
Most of our workforce receive a minimum of four (4) weeks annual leave usually working a set 40 hours a week.
What is the minimum contract period?
This will be determined by the organisation that employs you.
To maintain your nursing registration in Aotearoa, New Zealand you are required to have 450 hours of practice over three (3) years.
Will I be bonded?
This will depend on the organisation that you are employed into. If there is sponsored assistance there may be a two year bond agreement as part of your letter of offer.
Settings & Specialties
What’s the difference between private and public hospitals?
Public hospitals are run and and funded by the government (funded by taxes) providing free or subsidised access to healthcare to the New Zealand public.
Private hospitals are more costly but provide people with more control over their healthcare along with where and when treatments may be scheduled.
I like working in rest homes, are there roles available?
We are looking for nurses across all settings. To apply for a position in one of our aged care facilities apply now.
How do I get a job in a Hospice?
We would recommend you check out the vacancies that are advertised with Hospice New Zealand.
I like working in outpatients - are there jobs?
There are opportunities for roles across all settings including outpatients. In the larger hospitals there may be opportunities to work in different outpatient specialities.
I’m interested in changing my specialty. What would you advise?
The culture and relocation is a lot to get used to, we recommend moving to a service you are comfortable working in and progressing into other opportunities from there.
Continual growth and education is encouraged and assistance is provided to nurses wishing to study and gain further experience.
I am an Anaesthetic Nurse - can I get a job?
Aoteaora, New Zealand is looking for nurses across all settings. If you are able to gain Nursing Council registration you will be able to apply for Registered Nurse roles in Anaesthetics.
I am a Health Care Assistant, am I eligible for a visa?
We are looking for people across all setting of our Health Sector.
You can explore your visa options and access information and tools that will help you assess your visa criteria on the Immigration New Zealand website.