Anaesthetic Technicians
Also known as: Anesthetic Technologists, Operating Department Technicians
Aotearoa, New Zealand offers a broad range of opportunities for Anaesthetic Technicians in a range of environments from fast-paced metropolitan centres to community-focused healthcare in urban, rural and remote settings.
Work as an Anaesthetic Technician in New Zealand
One of the best things about living and working in Aotearoa, New Zealand are the opportunities to experience nature, outdoor adventure and vibrant cities so close to where you live and work.
Our population continues to increase, and we are living longer. These two factors are placing increasing demand on health services because of growing patient presentations with multiple pre-existing diseases and conditions (comorbidities) requiring complex surgery and care.
Anaesthetic Technicians are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List which means you are eligible for a fast-tracked Straight to Residence Visa and can apply for New Zealand residency before you arrive, provided you have a job offer from an accredited employer, like us!
Photo location + credit: Golden Bay, Nelson - NelsonTasman.nz
About the role
An Anaesthetic Technician or Operating Department Practitioner is part of the Allied Health workforce who performs a patient care role predominantly assisting with the administration and monitoring of anaesthesia. They have an extensive knowledge of anaesthesia techniques, instruments, supplies and technology.
Involved with all aspects of the delivery of a patient's perioperative anaesthetic care, they also play a key role in the emergency resuscitation of patients.
You'll find Anaesthetic Technicians in operating theatre suites but can be found in other areas of clinical practice including emergency departments, intensive care units (ICU) and day surgery clinics.
Benefits and salary range
Salary Range:
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In New Zealand, the salary and benefits of some roles are determined by collective agreements between unions and employers.
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The Anaesthetic Technicians collective agreement can be found on the Health New Zealand website.
Leave Entitlements:
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Most of our workforce receive a minimum of four (4) weeks annual leave usually working a set 40 hours a week.
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Additional leave is provided after five (5) years for employees who participate in shift work and on-call.
Required qualifications and experience
To work in Aotearoa, New Zealand you will need to:
- Be able to gain registration with the Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand.
- Hold an Annual Practising Certificate.
Beginning your career:
To become an Anaesthetic Technician, you need to:
- have a Bachelor of Health Science in Perioperative Practice (Level 7)
- be registered by the Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand.
Other helpful links:
Training and development
Expanded Scopes of Practice:
- There are two existing expanded Scopes of Practice for Anaesthetic Technicians:
- Post-Anaesthetic Care
- Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters.
Anaesthetic Technicians may practice in these areas on the completion of an accredited training pathway and the approval of the Medical Sciences Council.
New Zealand Anaesthetic Technicians' Society: nzats.co.nz
Roles and responsibilities
- Understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) and implementing the principles
- Engaging with local communities for better health outcomes
- Check and set up life support and anaesthetic machines
- Inform and reassure patients, and check for conditions that could create problems under anaesthesia
- Support Anaesthetists place patients' breathing tubes and intravenous lines
- Support Anaesthetists with the safe delivery of anaesthesia, including local anaesthetics and nerve blocks
- Assess and monitor patients' vital signs including temperature monitoring and regulation, collection and analysis of patient blood samples
- Assist with the post-operative care of the patients
- Insertion of I.V. catheters
Information for Internationally qualified candidates
Internationally qualified candidates include practitioners who hold a United Kingdom-issued qualification in Anaesthetic Technology and:
- have 3680 hours or more (2 years full-time equivalent) post-qualification relevant specialised anaesthetic technology experience, and
- are registered and in good standing with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Applicants with less than two years' experience can still apply and be assessed by the Council, which may include a Work Based Assessment in practice.
All other overseas qualifications are assessed on a case-by-case basis as to whether or not the holder of that qualification meets the registration requirements of the Council. Qualifications will be assessed against a standard set of criteria approved by the Council. Learn more about how to register.
Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) seeking roles may apply for registration and practice within the boundaries of an Anaesthetic Technician.
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Photo location + credit: Hot Water Beach, Coromandel - Miles Holden |
Explore Aotearoa
Aotearoa New Zealand 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 easygoing 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
Health New Zealand - Counties Manukau serves as a major source of employment within the Counties Manukau area, with over 8,000 individuals being employed across the region.
Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty
Population: 255,110
The Bay of Plenty is a place of beautiful harbours, long surf beaches and an easy-going 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, 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
Located in Masterton in the Wellington Region, Health New Zealand - Wairarapa is one of the smaller hospitals in the country with 89 inpatient beds providing comprehensive health services throughout the Wairarapa District.
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.
Northern Region
Te Manawa Taki
Central Region
Te Waipounamu Region
Our application process
How Kiwi Health Jobs works for you
When you apply, you will be redirected to Kiwi Health Jobs, our centralised recruitment portal. 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 where you are most interested in working.
Kiwi Health Jobs also advertises a wide range of vacancies across the Health Sector, including vacancies at public, not-for-profit and private employers.
Photo location + credit: Napier, Hawke's Bay - Graeme Murray
Webinar: Emigrating to New Zealand for Anaesthetic Technicians
Learn about the four steps to emigration for Anaesthetic Technicians from the New Zealand Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand, Kiwi Health Jobs, Immigration New Zealand, and Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora's Health Immigration Service.
Natalie, a healthcare professional who relocated from the UK also shares why she thinks New Zealand is such a fantastic place to live and work.
We'd love to help, reach out to us!
Moving to Aotearoa New Zealand is a fantastic opportunity and a big step, we're here for you! Our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and support throughout your journey, so don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.