A Few Questions about Auckland

[AmericanRNinNZ]

My husband and I are moving from the US to Auckland in mid-May 2010. Husband's accepting a job at the University of Auckland, so it's a pretty sure thing that we will be there, and I'm somewhat limited in terms of location (only Auckland). I'm seeking some information regarding:

1. What hospitals would you recommend in the Auckland area?

2. What would be an average starting wage for an RN with a bachelor's degree and 2 years ER/Trauma experience?

3. What are the schedules like? I have been working three 12 hour shifts a week, but I'm not sure if those are offered at the hospitals in Auckland.

I've tried to gather some of this information from other sites, but it's all been pretty sketchy. The hospital websites themselves are even less helpful.

Any help about one or all of these issues would be much appreciated! I've enjoyed perusing all of the posts on this topic and have already learned some helpful information.

[Djuna]

I would recommend Middlemore Hospital personally. I trained there and worked there and it had a very progressive work environment, however Auckland City Hospital would be closer and more convenient for you.

You would more than likely be on Step 2 and the starting salary is $48,238. Here is the link to the Collective Agreement where you will find all the information you require, eg pay rates, penal rates, conditions, etc

http://www.nzno.org.nz/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=Ri%2b7C27Uh0k%3d&tabid=436

[Anita2]

First of all, welcome to NZ!....

1. ADHB would be the one i recommended. You can either work in Greenlance clinical centre (appr 15-20mins bus distance away from the city, but free shuttle is offered to ADHB staff every 10-15mins between the centres) or Auckland CIty Hospital, which locates in Grafton and just few steps away from AKL uni medical campus and city centre.

2. With 2yrs of previous experience, basically you may start from a Level 2 staff nurse (5steps included), whose annual salary is abt nz$48,000-58,000. But it varies due to different steps or the department you'll be employed. This can be discussed at your interview, i reckon.

3. As to the shift schedules, it may vary from different departments. e.g. most ICUs and ORs do offer 8hrs &10hrs &12hrs shift but still, it depends on the needed service. 40hrs a week is considered as full-time. The department i work for is quite flexible, and you may choose any shift you like which i am quite happy with.

p.s. YEs, Middlemore hospital is another option, but it's a bit far from AKL university. I personally never worked there, but been heard that the staff like surgeons are quite nice. You may try there if they have vacancy fits you.

They are all public hospitals, but you can choose to work in private like Mercy hospital, southern cross etc... they also sit in the city.

Hope it helped. If you have more questions, just feel free to ask. All the best to you and your husband!

Anita