Registered Nurse Jobs in New Zealand: Careers & Visa Guide
We have an exciting opportunity for a health professional to join Life Care Consultants as a Health Consultant – Registered Nurse, based in Tauranga, Bay of Plenty.
Role Highlights
- Deliver health screening services and first aid training courses across the Bay of Plenty
- Work 80 hours per fortnight (including two Saturdays per month)
- Company vehicle provided for travel
- Comprehensive training provided (no prior experience required)
- Highly autonomous role with strong job satisfaction
Key Responsibilities
- Provide health education to individuals and groups
- Deliver vaccinations and screening services at worksites and Life Care venues
- Travel within the region, including occasional overnight stays
- Maintain accurate health records using digital tools
Candidate Requirements
- Right to work in New Zealand (no visa sponsorship for this role)
- Current New Zealand Registered Nursing qualification
- Full NZ driver’s licence (clean record)
- Ability to pass a Ministry of Justice security check
- Strong communication skills and a passion for preventative health care
Note: This specific role does not offer visa sponsorship. However, many other healthcare employers in New Zealand do sponsor overseas nurses (explained below).
Demand for Registered Nurses in New Zealand
New Zealand is experiencing a nationwide nursing shortage. There is an urgent need for registered nurses in:
- Aged care facilities
- Rural hospitals
- Emergency and acute care units
With an ageing population and increasing healthcare needs, registered nurses continue to be in high demand across the country.
Visa Sponsorship for Overseas Nurses
For international candidates, visa sponsorship provides a clear pathway to working in New Zealand’s healthcare system.
Common Visa Pathways
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Requires a job offer from an accredited healthcare employer
- Employer sponsors your work visa
- Typically valid for several years
- Straight to Residence Pathway (Green List roles)
- Registered nurses are included on New Zealand’s Green List
- Eligible for permanent residency after receiving an accredited job offer
Requirements for Overseas Nurses
- Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) registration
- English language proficiency (IELTS/OET)
- Relevant Bachelor of Nursing or equivalent qualification
Reference: Immigration NZ – Work Visas
Salary Expectations
Registered Nurses in New Zealand typically earn between:
- NZD $64,000 – $95,000 per year depending on experience, specialty, and region
- Overtime, shift allowances, and advanced roles may increase overall earnings
Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO)
Benefits of Nursing in New Zealand
- High Demand – Strong job security across healthcare facilities
- Competitive Salaries – Attractive pay with opportunities for growth
- Work-Life Balance – Flexible hours and lifestyle-friendly environment
- Permanent Residency Pathways – Clear immigration options for skilled nurses
- Multicultural Experience – Work in diverse healthcare teams
- Professional Growth – Access to advanced training and career development
- Quality of Life – Safe communities, natural beauty, and outdoor activities
About Life Care Consultants
At Life Care Consultants, we provide first aid training and health screening services across New Zealand.
Our Values
- Attitude is Everything: Positive, Fun, and Passionate
- Focus on well-being, safety, and health for all New Zealanders
- Equal opportunity employer promoting diversity and inclusion
We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who share our values and passion for improving community health.
Conclusion
Becoming a Registered Nurse in New Zealand offers excellent career opportunities, competitive pay, and strong immigration pathways. While this specific role at Life Care Consultants requires existing NZ work rights, many healthcare employers actively sponsor overseas nurses.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What documents are required for the visa application?
Documents typically include proof of qualifications, professional experience, language proficiency test results, and a job offer from a New Zealand employer.
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How can I get a sponsor to work in New Zealand?
Visa applications can be sponsored by New Zealand citizens and residents and organizations like registered companies, incorporated societies, charitable trusts, and government agencies.
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Is it easy in New Zealand to get a job?
New Zealand offers a range of easy-to-get jobs, making it an attractive destination for job seekers looking for quick opportunities. Whether you’re a traveler on a gap year or a newcomer to the country, these jobs require minimal experience and often provide immediate start options.



