Have any UK nurses worked in NZ?

[ionaht]

Hello there folks.

I was interested in hearing other UK nurses perspectives on working in NZ. I am a UK nurse and I'm currently in NZ but I am finding things quite difficult. It is a gorgeous place and the people are exceptionally friendly but I am really finding things difficult at the moment because (a) I came out here by myself (b) the transport system here in Auckland is a nightmare © I am finding I held a lot more responsibility and had a wider sphere of practice back home in the UK and therefore, feeling a bit constrained here in NZ.

Did anyone else find they had problems in NZ? The last thing I want to do is criticise NZ but I suppose like anywhere, you are never going to get the ideal situation.

I came out here with an open mind as to whether I would stay in NZ for a while (my visa is for 2 years but open to a longer stay). I have now decided to stay for a year then come home as I am concerned I am going to end up very deskilled.

Has anyone else found this? Much obliged for any replies as I really need the support at the moment.

[yobint]

Hi There. I'm a Canadian, now working in the UK as a nurse. My partner & I lived in Auckland a few years ago & worked at the Starship. WE both LOVED NZ but HATED the job. Lots of issues - most to do with the nursing manager but many others to do with the antiquated nursing system we found. We were hired as experienced nurses - ready to "hit the ground running", but found we were constantly being held back because we hadn't been signed off on ridiculous tasks (how to assemble a sharps bin, how to greet a client etc..). In the end, we left because it wasn't worth the aggro.

Hang in there, Auckland is a great city. My suggestion - go to the car markets, buy a cheap car (the AA will check it out for you there), and explore the beautiful country on your days off.