Veterinarian
Mō mātou: About Us: At Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo we are guided by our kaupapa “Me tiaki, kia ora!” We care about connecting animals, people, and our environment. As a not-for-profit organisation we continue to lead the way through connecting people with animals, providing evidence-based care and welfare, saving animals in the wild and ensuring we’re a voice to be heard. We’ve been a crucial part of the Wellington Community for 120 years and are proud to be a progressive, accredited Zoo.
Mō te tūranga: About the role: We have a great opportunity for a Veterinarian to join our team on a permanent, full-time basis. This is a permanent full-time position that works every Sunday to Thursday, 40 hours per week.
Reporting to Te Kōhanga The Nest Team Leader, and working closely with our Senior Veterinarian, the position is responsible for delivering an integrated approach to veterinary care for our zoo and wildlife species. You will be part of a passionate, committed vet and technical team and have the opportunity to work closely with our conservation partners and engage members of our community on our conservation journey. You’ll also collaborate closely with the Animal Care team, providing advice for the care of their animals.
Te Kōhanga The Nest is our award-winning animal hospital and centre for native wildlife. This state-of-the-art facility contains seven rehabilitation rooms, a custom-built saltwater pool, and state-of-the-art equipment – all of which enable our team to treat our 500+ Zoo animals and hundreds of sick or injured native wildlife patients each year.
Te Kōhanga The Nest also works in partnership with Wildbase, Massey University and provides an integral part of the Wildbase residency programme. This collaborative relationship also delivers specialist veterinary support and training for the team.
He kōrero mōu: About you
- A current veterinary qualification that is recognised in New Zealand.
- At least three years of demonstrated veterinary experience.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Capability in mentoring veterinary undergraduate, postgraduate and veterinary nursing students.
- Confidence in avian surgery and rehabilitation would be preferred
- Strong computer skills in Microsoft applications and web-based research, and familiarity with animal record systems.
- Excellent communication skills and confidence in engaging with our visitors.
- Previous experience in large animal or mixed animal/exotics practice would be preferred
- An understanding of conservation medicine principles.
- Zoo experience would be advantageous.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
- Inclusive and supportive colleagues and managers.
- Two days paid Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Leave per year.
- Annual allowance of $2,000 for CPD use.
- Full uniform provided, including boots.
- Annual leave of four weeks per annum.
- An extra accrued week of annual leave after 5 years of continuous service.
- Long service leave recognition after 10 years.
- Sick leave entitlement of 15 days from the start of employment.
- Opportunities to apply for Conservation Leave.
- Zoo product discounts.
- Yearly allocation of Zoo passes to give away.
- Free annual flu vaccinations.
- Free parking.
- External employee assistance services.
Please note the following:
- Applicants for this position need NZ residency or a valid NZ work permit.
- If successful, you will be required to undergo a police background check and a pre-employment drug and alcohol test. We arrange all of these for you through relevant providers.
- If you have support or access requirements, please let us know when you apply so we can assist you throughout the recruitment process.
- Please contact people&culture@wellingtonzoo.com if you have any questions about the role or the application process.
Tono mai | Apply Now
Applications close: NZT 5:00pm Thursday 30 April 2026
Te Nukuao Wellington Zoo is a diverse workforce that reflects Aotearoa New Zealand. We are committed to accepting, valuing, and embracing the diversity of all people.
Tūhono mai! Come join us!
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
