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As we venture into 2025, understanding recruitment dynamics is critical for veterinary clinics facing staffing challenges.

Today Julie South looks into the current landscape of veterinary employment in Aotearoa New Zealand, emphasising the importance of a strong employer brand, adapting to immigration changes, and creating supportive workplaces.

Julie recaps the impactful recruitment changes in NZs 2024 and crystal ball gazes into what she believes must happen in 2025:

• Overview of recruitment trends in New Zealand 
• Analysis of immigration rule changes impacting veterinary staffing 
• Explanation of MPI's Voluntary Bonding Scheme for large animal vets 
• The significance of mentorship and new grad development programs 
• Importance of a strong employer brand in attracting talent 
• Discussion on the role of AI in recruitment strategies 
• Steps to improve visibility and attractiveness of job advertisements 
• Encouragement for existing staff to provide positive reviews

VetStaff
leading veterinary sector recruitment in New Zealand | veterinarians | locums | nurses

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

Equine dental care in New Zealand is facing a crossroads, and Registered Veterinarian Dr Helen Beattie is here to shed light on the pressing need for regulatory reform. 

The current landscape allows non-veterinarians to perform complex dental procedures on horses, posing significant risks to equine welfare. 

Join host Julie South and Dr Helen as she shares her passionate advocacy against these practices, highlighting the Ministry for Primary Industries' disregard for expert veterinary advice and her relentless pursuit to safeguard animal welfare through policy change.

Regulatory challenges extend beyond equine care as veterinary nurses in the companion animal field grapple with limitations despite their training and insurance. 

Dr Helen recounts her journey back to university, driven by a desire to blend legal expertise with my passion for animals, aiming to become one of only two (as at recording) vet lawyers in New Zealand. 

Her personal narrative underscores the broader need for regulatory support to overcome bureaucratic hurdles and the fresh perspective that legally trained veterinary professionals can bring to the field.

Returning to academia as a mature student brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. Dr Helen and Julie discuss how life experience enriches both learning and work environments, while also confronting exam stress and perfectionism. 

We celebrate the unique contributions mature students and professionals bring, urging respect and appreciation for their wisdom and balance. 

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

Today host Julie South, uncover some of the complexities of national cat management in New Zealand in this second of three part series with Dr Helen Beattie.

As a dedicated advocate for responsible cat ownership, Dr Helen shines a light on the vital role of veterinary professionals in transforming public perceptions and practices.

Julie and Dr Helen explore the myths surrounding feline reproduction, the crucial importance of microchipping and de-sexing, and the dire need for streamlined national legislation to replace ineffective local bylaws.

Their discussion reflects on a decade of progress and the delicate balance between animal welfare and environmental conservation.

Veterinarians are front and centre in the battle for effective stray cat management, and Dr Beattie shares her frustrations and hopes for the future. She shares the critical need for thoughtful trap, neuter, and return (TNR) programmes, especially near ecologically sensitive areas.

Dr Helen passionately argues that simply euthanising strays is not socially acceptable, and emphasises the need for the veterinary community to unite in supporting responsible management initiatives.   By shifting the narrative towards keeping cats safe and happy at home, we can start the conversation that benefits both native species and our feline friends.

Hear about innovative solutions like cat-proof fencing, designed to safely contain outdoor cats and prevent them from straying into vulnerable habitats.   Dr Helen compares this modern approach to the established practice of high fencing for dogs, highlighting the growing responsibilities of cat ownership.

Julie and Dr Helen also discuss the ongoing development of educational tools to support both vets and cat guardians, as well as the financial needs of these initiatives.

Links mentioned in this episode

Catfence
Catnets
Ep 215 - Banning Live Exports
Join VAWA

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

What if you could change the fate of thousands of animals with just your voice?

Join Julie South this week as she chats with Dr Helen Beattie, the pioneering founder of Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa (VAWA). 

Today Dr Helen she shares her compelling journey in challenging the norms of live animal exports. Through her expert lens, Dr Beattie brings to light the ethical dilemmas and dire conditions faced during these inhumane journeys.

Dr Helen and Julie catch up on what she's been doing since her last guest appearance (back in ep. 069).   They talk about VAWAs mission through to grappling with the pressing need for sustainable financial models to keep such critical advocacy alive.

As we confront the harsh realities of live exports, the episode also unravels the tragic story of Gulf Livestock 1, serving as a stark warning of the perils involved.

Dr Helen and Julie talk about the political maelstrom surrounding New Zealand's anticipated repeal of the live export ban and they explore the global movement towards stricter regulations.

This conversation isn't just about the challenges—it’s about taking action. They discuss how public engagement can influence decision-making and shape policies that prioritise animal welfare.

Tune in to discover the power of advocacy and the potential for meaningful change in the realm of animal rights.

Links Mentioned Today
Dr Helen Beattie - Episode 069
Dr Helen Beattie - Episode 070
Dr Helen Beattie - Episode 071
Email Prime Minister Christopher Luxon
Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa website

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

Join Julie South for the second thought-provoking conversation she has with Dr Jane Jones, as they uncover the nuanced experiences of Māori veterinarians and veterinary nurses in New Zealand. 

Discover how Dr Jane's collaborative research with Dr. Francesca Brown reveals the profound impact of cultural narratives and the challenges faced by Māori professionals in expressing their identity within the veterinary field. 

Listen to them chat about the significance of respecting cultural practices like tikanga, especially in contexts involving death, and explore the broader implications of kaupapa Māori research. 

Dr. Jones shares her hope that future Māori veterinary professionals will continue this vital dialogue, reflecting her commitment to honouring cultural perspectives.

Julie and Dr Jane also explore the shared experiences of Māori and Pasifika communities in both human health and veterinary sectors, emphasising the importance of trust, empathy, and understanding cultural contexts. 

Their conversation sheds light on the financial hurdles these communities face in accessing care and the need for cultural safety in veterinary practice. Drawing on personal stories, they discuss the importance of self-reflection in overcoming biases and assumptions and underscore the necessity for the veterinary sector to engage meaningfully with Te Tiriti o Waitangi. 

The episodes wraps up with a hopeful note on community unity, inspired by the peaceful Hikoi event, as they advocate for a more inclusive and respectful veterinary practice in New Zealand.

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

Dr. Jane Jones, a pioneering voice in veterinary narratives, invites us into her world as she navigates the complexities of qualitative research in veterinary science.

With a unique focus on the experiences of Māori veterinarians and vet nurses in Aotearoa, New Zealand, Dr Jane's research journey unveils the challenges and rewards of exploring a field with sparse literature.  

Her collaboration with Associate Professor Dr Francesca Brown and her dedication to learning Te Reo Māori highlight not only her personal growth but also her commitment to enhancing cultural sensitivity within veterinary practices. 

Through this episode (part one of two), you're offered a thoughtful reflection on the intersection of Māori culture and veterinary science, as Dr Jane shares the profound impact of indigenous perspectives on animal care.

We further explore how integrating te reo Māori into veterinary consultations has sparked varied reactions and why understanding Māori views on animals can transform welfare practices. 

Dr Jane provides insights from key studies and interviews, unveiling themes of cultural visibility and safety within the profession. 

As host, Julie South, and Dr Jane delve into broader historical trends - including language loss and educational struggles among Māori communities - this episode challenges us to reconsider the role of indigenous perspectives in building trust and improving outcomes in veterinary care. 

Join Julie South and Dr Jane Jones for a thought-provoking chat that not only enlightens, but also inspires, a rethinking of our approach to cultural dynamics in the veterinary world.

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

In this episode of Veterinary Voices, host Julie South delivers invaluable insights for new veterinary graduates (vets and nurses) preparing for their first job interviews. 

With career expo season in full swing across New Zealand, this timely discussion provides practical, actionable strategies to help fresh graduates stand out in the competitive veterinary job market.

Key takeaways include:

• How to craft standout applications that catch employers' attention
• Essential pre-interview research techniques
• The STAR framework for answering behavioural questions
• Professional presentation tips that make a lasting impression
• Strategic questions to ask during interviews

Whether you're a recent graduate or preparing for a career transition, this episode offers concrete steps to help level the playing field in veterinary job interviews. 

Julie's experienced perspective and practical advice make this a must-listen for anyone looking to launch their veterinary career with confidence.

Perfect for:

• New veterinary graduates
• Veterinary students preparing for the job market
• Career changers within the veterinary industry
• Hiring managers wanting to understand candidate perspectives

Listen now to gain the competitive edge you need in your next veterinary job interview.

Links mentioned today:

Episode 075 - 11 Job Interview Questions to Ask
Episode 041 - Massey University Job Interview Q&A

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

Episode 211 of Veterinary Voices, hosted by Julie South, features an in-depth conversation with Catherine Neazor Brady, a seasoned New Zealand licensed immigration consultant. 

Catherine and Julie look at the latest changes in New Zealand's immigration policies and their significant impact on the veterinary industry.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Immigration Processing Improvements:
   • Immigration New Zealand has reorganised into operational centres, leading to faster processing times.
   • Priority processing for skill level one jobs and Green List roles, including veterinarians.
   • Job checks for priority categories now processed within weeks instead of months.
2. Accredited Employer Work Visa Review:
   • Ongoing review of the scheme with potential changes to wage requirements.
   • Possible shift from median wage requirement to minimum wage plus a factor or market rate.
   • Implications for veterinary nurse recruitment and retention.
3. Partner Visa Changes:
   • From 2 December 2024, Partnership Work Visas will become fully open with no conditions or pay requirements.
   • This change makes it easier for partners of veterinary professionals to find work in New Zealand.
4. Visa Application Fees and Processing:
   • Discussion on the recent fee increase and its impact on application numbers.
   • Insights into application approval rates and common issues causing delays.
5. Single Parent Visa Applicants:
   • Special wage threshold requirements for visa applicants with dependent children.
   • Minimum annual earnings of $43,322.70 required to support dependents on a visa.

This episode provides crucial information for veterinary practices considering hiring overseas qualified professionals looking to work in New Zealand.

Discover how to navigate the complex immigration landscape, understand recent policy changes, and prepare for potential future developments in New Zealand's veterinary sector immigration policies.

Catherine's previous episodes
Episode 203
Episode 204

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

In this interesting episode of Veterinary Voices, Julie South catches up again with Khristina Naden, Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Nursing at Otago Polytech, where she demonstrates how a veterinary nursing qualification can evolve into ground-breaking research. 

As Kristina shares insights from her Masters research (hopefully to be upgraded to PhD research) into therapeutic horse riding, you're are treated to a super interesting blend of scientific methodology and practical experience that bridges the gap between animal care and human therapy.

In episodes 205 and 206 Kristina's shared her non-traditional entry into veterinary nursing.   Today she expands on that to share how it's possible to expand and morph traditional veterinary nursing.  

Kristina talks about conducting international research which showcases the expanding horizons available within the veterinary nursing profession. 

Her recent presentation at a conference in Budapest highlights how veterinary expertise can contribute to broader therapeutic applications, from improving physical mobility to enhancing speech and language development in patients.

She also chats about how she was invited to present her veterinary research at a medical (human) conference; where a brief case of Imposter Syndrome kicked in.

Key Takeaways:

1. Veterinary nursing qualifications can lead to diverse career paths, including academic research and specialised therapy programs
2. The horse-human connection is deeply nuanced, with horses serving as sensitive indicators of human mental states - a finding that has implications for both therapeutic and recreational riding

This episode is particularly valuable for veterinary professionals considering career advancement, those interested in animal-assisted therapy, and anyone fascinated by the scientific understanding of horse-human interactions. 

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets to finding your ideal veterinary clinic job by asking smart "Culture-based" questions at your job interview.

Today Julie South guides you through smart questioning techniques that reveal a clinic’s true culture and values.

Wondering how to ensure your future workplace aligns with your professional ethos? This episode of Veterinary Voices promises to equip you with the right questions to ask during job interviews, helping you uncover crucial insights about workplace culture, employee satisfaction, professional development support, and feedback processes. By integrating these tactics with thorough online research, including checking reviews on vetclinicjobs.com, you'll be well-prepared to make informed career decisions.

Moreover, hear why verified reviews are vital in your job search and how they can transform your understanding of potential employers.

Listeners are encouraged - regardless of whether they're seeking a new job or currently employed - to contribute to their clinic's community by leaving positive, anonymous reviews that can aid fellow veterinary professionals.

Today, you can discover how to leverage these 10 "culture" questions and their insights to leverage your career growth, ensuring each step you take is towards a workplace that truly resonates with your values and aspirations. 

Contemplating your next career move?
Tania Bruce - VetStaff's passionate kiwi recruiter - would welcome the opportunity to have a 100% confidential chat with you. Tania's a former Ortho Head Vet Nurse so speaks your language!

How to get more bang for your recruitment advertising buck
This is what VetStaff is really good at so if you'd like to stretch your recruitment dollar, please get in touch with Julie because this is something VetStaff can help you with.

Committed to DIY-ing your own recruitment?
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Revive Your Drive - daily 2-minute videos for veterinary employers and employees to help revive their drives at work and at home.