New Zealand nurse registration

Applicants who have successfully completed an approved programme of study in New Zealand can apply for registration as a nurse in the scope of practice for which his/her qualification is prescribed. For enrolled nurse and registered nurse applicants, this will involve passing the state final examination.

Each applicant is asked to provide support for registration from the head of school of nursing at the institution at which they studied.

Each applicant must provide two referees from persons of good standing in the community where (s)he lives. These people must have known the applicant during the period of her/his nursing education and must not be a relative, flatmate, fellow student or nursing educator from the applicant, educational institution.

Each applicant must also sign a declaration that he or she:

• is able to communicate effectively in order to practise nursing
• is able to communicate in and comprehend English sufficiently well to protect the health and safety of the public
• does not have a physical or mental condition that means he or she is unable to practise
• is not the subject of any investigation, disciplinary proceedings or disciplinary order either in New Zealand or any other country that reflects adversely on fitness to practise.
• knows of no reason why his or her registration would endanger public health or safety.

The registration of each nurse is considered on an individual basis. The Council may require further information to support the application for registration. If an applicant has a court conviction or other issues impacting on fitness to practise he/she may be additional information and/or meet with a committee of Council. The Nursing Council registers successful applicants as soon as practicable after they pass the examination. Nurses are then required to apply for an annual practising certificate.

Unsuccessful applicants may be provided with an opportunity to meet with Council to discuss their application. Any decision not to register an applicant may be appealed to the District Court.