Vet Nursing Study in New Zealand

Overview of Vet Nursing Study in NZ

Why Study Vet Nursing in NZ?

• High demand for veterinary nurses in New Zealand
• Opportunities to work with a variety of animals, from companion animals to livestock and wildlife
• Rewarding career with a sense of job satisfaction

Education and Training

Qualifications

• New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology (Veterinary Nursing) Level 5
• New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing Level 6

Institutes Offering Vet Nursing Courses

• Unitec Institute of Technology
• Otago Polytechnic
• Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec)
• Other institutes and private training establishments

Course Structure and Content

Typical Course Duration

• 1-2 years full-time, part-time options available

Core Subjects

• Animal anatomy and physiology
• Veterinary nursing skills and procedures
• Animal behaviour and welfare
• Pharmacology and dispensary management
• Diagnostic imaging and laboratory procedures
• Surgical and anaesthetic nursing
• Medical and surgical conditions

Clinical Experience

• Practical experience in veterinary clinics and hospitals
• Opportunities to work with experienced veterinary nurses and veterinarians

Career Opportunities and Registration

Career Paths

• Veterinary nurse in private practice, hospitals, or research institutions
• Veterinary nurse specialist (e.g. surgical, anaesthetic, or dental nursing)
• Animal welfare or conservation organizations
• Pharmaceutical or animal health companies

Registration with NZVNA

• New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) is the professional organization for veterinary nurses in NZ
• Registration requires completion of a recognized qualification and meeting NZVNA's registration criteria

Salary and Job Prospects

Salary Range

• 40,000−40,000 - 40,000−60,000 per year, depending on experience and location

Job Prospects

• High demand for veterinary nurses in NZ
• Opportunities for advancement and specialization
• Variety of work environments and roles available