Mental Health Nurses - opportunities across New Zealand for internationally qualified candidates

Full job description
Discover a career as a Mental Health Nurse in New Zealand

You support people through some of their most vulnerable moments – now it's time to find the same support for yourself. Whether you're looking for better work–life balance, a diverse team or time to explore New Zealand's natural beauty, we have something for you.
At Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, you'll join compassionate teams focused on holistic, person-centred care. We're welcoming Registered Nurses with mental health experience who want to make a difference and build a life in Aotearoa (New Zealand).


Opportunities across Health New Zealand

Mental Health Nurses work in a range of inpatient, outpatient and community settings. Depending on your role and location, you may be involved in:

Acute inpatient mental health units
Community mental health and addiction services
Forensic or intellectual disability services
Child, adolescent and youth mental health
Older persons' mental health
Crisis assessment and intervention
You'll work in multidisciplinary teams alongside psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers and peer support workers to deliver safe, recovery-focused care.



What it's like to work here

Mental Health Nurses in Aotearoa are respected for their therapeutic skills, leadership and holistic approach to care. You'll be supported to grow professionally and contribute to improving outcomes for tāngata whaiora (people seeking wellness).

You'll benefit from:

Paid CPD leave and development funding
Access to regular clinical supervision
Supportive teams focused on equity and wellbeing
Opportunities to work across community and inpatient care
Flexible work options (full-time, part-time or casual)
Call New Zealand home

If you receive a job offer, our Health Immigration Service offers free support to help you and your whānau (family) relocate. Mental Health Nurses are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List, making you eligible for the Straight to Residence Visa – so you can apply for residency before you even arrive.

New Zealand offers more than just beautiful scenery – it offers time, connection and a sense of belonging. Whether you're into hiking, relaxing at the beach or spending time with whānau, you'll find balance here.



Salary benefits

Base salary: NZD $66,570 – $99,630 (based on the NZNO MECA)

Additional compensation: Penal rates, overtime and shift allowances where applicable

You'll also receive:

Reimbursement of your Professional Registration and APC
Professional indemnity cover paid by your employer
Paid CPD leave and allowance
Four weeks of annual leave per year
Ten days of paid sick leave
Twelve public holidays (plus time in lieu if rostered on)
Fourteen weeks paid parental leave
Long service and special leave entitlements
What you need to work here

To practise as a Mental Health Nurse in New Zealand, you must be registered with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) and hold a current Annual Practising Certificate (APC).

International applicants are assessed on their qualifications, English language proficiency and clinical experience in mental health.



Working for Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora

Te Whatu Ora means "the weaving of wellness." We are building a single, unified health system that delivers equitable and high-quality care across the motu (country). Our people are at the heart of everything we do.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to building a diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all people – including Māori, Pacific Peoples, those from ethnic communities, disabled people and the Rainbow community.

Our values are grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) and our commitment to health equity for Māori and all New Zealanders. Through collaboration, innovation and shared purpose, we aim to create a health system where everyone can thrive.



Ready to make a difference?

Our international recruitment team can support you through the application, registration and immigration process – and help you find the right place to call home.

Apply now – and make a difference somewhere different. Read more