New Zealand nurse registration is the process of applying for registration as a nurse in New Zealand after completing an approved program of study. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Educational Requirements

  • Registered Nurses: Applicants must complete a three-year Bachelor of Nursing degree or a two-year graduate-entry Master’s degree.
  • Enrolled Nurses: Applicants must hold a Diploma in Enrolled Nursing or an equivalent qualification.

• Application Requirements
  The Nursing Council requires applicants to provide information to verify the following:

  • Identity
  • Nursing Qualification
  • Current Overseas Registration
  • English Language Proficiency
  • Post-Registration Nursing Practice Hours

• Competence Assessment Process
  The Nursing Council may require some internationally qualified nurses to complete a competence assessment to ensure they meet New Zealand standards. This assessment includes the following:

  • Theoretical Examination
    An online multiple-choice examination that tests nursing knowledge, taken at an accredited examination center overseas or in New Zealand.

  • Clinical OSCE Exam
    The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) takes place in person at a Nursing Council-approved simulation center. The OSCE assesses applied nursing knowledge, communication, and safe clinical practice at the level expected of a New Zealand-registered nurse.

    • Candidates must complete 10 OSCE scenarios (stations) within 120 minutes.
    • If unsuccessful, candidates are allowed to re-sit the OSCE exam up to two additional times.