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Physiotherapy

Level up your career and lifestyle and deliver a first-rate service to our communities as a Physiotherapist in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

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Physiotherapist Wes heling a patient raise their left arm for their physiotherapy treatment..
Abel Tasman 4 Physiotherapy Hero

Work as a Physiotherapist in New Zealand

It’s an exciting time for the profession and we’re looking for dynamic and forward-thinking registered Physiotherapists to help make positive change happen.

We have a multicultural population of all ages, and we are in the market to recruit Physiotherapists from all areas of health, sports, and recreation offering you opportunities in a range of environments from fast-paced metropolitan centres to community-focused healthcare in urban, rural and remote settings.

Physiotherapists 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!

 

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Photo location: Nelson - Credit: Legend Photography

About the role

Our Physiotherapists use techniques that help restore movement and function working to help people regain their ability to have a quality life and maintain movement following an injury, manage pain, and ongoing disease management. Whether this is to prevent hospital admissions or to prevent ongoing deterioration our teams provide support to people of all ages affected by injury, illness or disability. 

In Aotearoa New Zealand, Physiotherapists work across different areas both within the public system (Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora) and in the private system as well as self-employed in private practices. 

Within our public system, Physiotherapists work in a range of different settings, from our acute hospitals, to our rural hospitals, and into well-established community teams. The health system recognises the value physiotherapy adds to health and is actively investing in developing the profession.

Being a comparatively small nation, our Physiotherapists have the ability to drive change and be at the forefront of innovation of services that influence their local communities. Digital health is just one way we support our communities.

Physiotherapist Grant getting his portrait photo taken in the corridor with his arms crossed smiling at the camera

Benefits and salary range

  • In New Zealand, the salary and benefits of some roles are determined by collective agreements between unions and employers.
  • The Physiotherapists collective agreement can be found on the Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora website.
  • Opportunities to network with other Physiotherapists within your specialty arena
  • Opportunities to work across different settings within rural communities and hospital-based positions
  • Opportunities to be involved in some exciting new service developments such as Physiotherapists as first specialist accessors for Pelvic health, Respiratory, Vestibular and Orthopaedic specialty services
  • Opportunities to lead and participate to service development in Emergency care services and Community/Primary care services
  • You will be supported in your ongoing development. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is available to progress your career and opportunities for further education and to be involved in research.

Required qualifications and experience

To work in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will need to satisfy and gain registration with the New Zealand Physiotherapy Board and be a member of Physiotherapy New Zealand.

  • Annual Practicing Certificate
  • Ongoing competency and dedicated to long life learning
  • Full Drivers Licence (rural communities).

Other helpful links

Begin your career
  • The following physiotherapy schools are available in New Zealand: University of Otago, Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Auckland University and Wintec
  • Bachelor of Health Science
  • Bachelor of Physiotherapy
  • Internationally recognised physiotherapy qualification 
  • New Zealand physiotherapy registration.

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
  • Ability to work as an autonomous practitioner
  • Competent Physiotherapist within area of special interest
  • Provide safe and clinically effective assessment and intervention
  • Ability to provide holistic treatment from initial assessment to discharge
  • Ability to work as part of a healthcare team
  • Understand the patient journey
  • Awareness of prevention
  • Understanding of both hospital and community work
  • Understanding of ACC
  • Opportunity for mentorship and sharing of skills.

Internationally qualified candidates

To practise legally as a Physiotherapist in New Zealand, you must be registered and hold a current Annual Practising certificate issued by the Physiotherapy Board and be members of Physiotherapy New Zealand

Alternative titles for Physiotherapists are:

  • Physio
  • Physical Therapist 
Cathedral Cove Physio Midpage Stacked

 

 

 

 

 

Photo location: Waikato - Credit: 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

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!

Explore Northland

Waitemata

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.

Explore Waitematā

Te Toka Tumai Auckland

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.

Explore Auckland

Counties Manukau

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.

Explore Counties Manukau

Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty

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. 

Explore the Bay of Plenty

Waikato

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.

Explore the Waikato

Tairawhiti

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.

Explore Gisborne

Lakes

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. 

Explore the Lakes District

Taranaki

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!

Explore Taranaki

Te Mataua Maui HawkesBay

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.

Explore Hawke's Bay

Whanganui

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.

Explore Whanganui

Capital Coast and Hutt Valley

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.

Explore Capital, Coast & Hutt Valley

Te Pae Hauora o Ruahine o Tararua Mid Central

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. 

Explore MidCentral

Wairarapa

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. 

Explore the Wairarapa

Nelson Marlborough

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.

Explore Nelson Marlborough

Te Tai o Poutini West Coast

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.  

Explore the West Coast

Waitaha Canterbury

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.

Explore Canterbury

South Canterbury

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.

Explore South Canterbury

Southern

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. 

Explore the Southern District

Our Application Process

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Step 1: Submit

Complete the registration form as your expression of interest in a Physiotherapist role

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Step 2: Review

Our Candidate Management Team will review your application and check your suitability

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Step 3: Contact

You will be contacted by our Candidate Management Team to discuss career and location options

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Step 4: Referral

We will refer you to a Recruitment Team in your preferred location(s) for further assessment

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Step 5: Progress

Your chosen Recruitment Team(s) will be in touch with you to continue the recruitment process

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.

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