Mātanga tapuhi nurse practitioners (NP) are highly skilled, autonomous, health practitioners who have advanced education, clinical training and demonstrated competency. NPs have a clinical master’s degree level of education and legal authority to practise beyond the level of a registered nurse.

More information about nurse practitioners:

College of Nurses New Zealand

Nursing Council of New Zealand

If you are a registered nurse and are considering developing your clinical expertise and pursuing the educational requirements to register as an NP in New Zealand, it may be important to discuss your aspirations with your clinical leader. There are certain support systems required for success, including clinical preparation and mentorship, to meet the competency requirements to pathway into an NP position.

More information about the nurse practitioner training programme: 

Nurse practitioner training programme

It is recommended that registered nurses are already practising in the area they will work in as an NP before completing the required post-graduate studies and competency requirements.

If you have trained outside of New Zealand, please note the New Zealand requirements for a clinical master’s degree with the appropriate course content and mentorship requirements. It is important to work with Nursing Council of New Zealand to understand if your preparation and experience meets the New Zealand requirements. 

Read the Guide to advance from registered nurse to nurse practitioner (PDF 562KB)