Physiotherapy in NZ
  What is physiotherapy?
  What physiotherapy can do for you
  Choosing a physiotherapist
  What to expect from your consultation
  How to become/register as a physiotherapist
  The New Zealand Society of Physiotherapists

How to become/register as a physiotherapist

How to become a physiotherapist
Physiotherapists undertake a health science-based four-year degree programme from one of the two New Zealand schools of physiotherapy. This programme includes assessment, diagnosis and treatment of injuries and medical conditions; it also includes 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience.

The two schools of physiotherapy in New Zealand are based at the University of Otago http://physio.otago.ac.nz/   and at the Auckland University of Technology http://www.aut.ac.nz/schools/rehabilitation_and_occupation_studies/

Physiotherapists are professionally qualified with either a Diploma in Physiotherapy (pre-1991), a Bachelor of Physiotherapy, or a qualification from overseas approved by the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand. Many NZSP members continue with postgraduate studies, often as members of the NZ College of Physiotherapy.

All physiotherapists practising in New Zealand need to be registered by the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand and hold an Annual Practising Certificate (APC) issued by the Board.  To obtain an APC, each physiotherapist must produce evidence of continuing competence through ongoing professional education.  For more information see www.physioboard.org.nz  

Applying to register as a Physiotherapist in New Zealand

In order to work as a physiotherapist in New Zealand it is a legal requirement that you must first be registered with the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand and hold an Annual Practising Certificate (APC). Visit the Board's website to find out all about registration www.physioboard.org.nz

Allow several months for the registration process, from the time you have provided all the required documentation to the Physiotherapy Board.

Immigration

Obtain information regarding immigration and work permits from www.immigration.govt.nz or from immigration officials at the closest New Zealand High Commission or Embassy.

More information about employment and training in New Zealand may be found on www.worksite.govt.nz