Lead Veterinary Nurse – Darfield (Rural Clinic, Great Team Culture)
Lead Veterinary Nurse
Permanent, Full Time
Darfield, Canterbury
Make a Real Difference | Join Our Team in Darfield!
About the Role
We’re looking for a skilled and passionate Lead Veterinary Nurse to join our spacious, rural Darfield clinic. This is your chance to lead, mentor, and inspire a small nursing team while delivering exceptional care to pets and building lasting relationships with their owners.
Work Monday to Friday, with occasional Saturday shifts shared on a rotating roster, in a friendly, customer-centric, and supportive team environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and support the nursing team of three, providing mentorship, guidance, and coaching.
Deliver high-quality clinical care, including administering medications and anaesthesia.
Assist with surgeries and oversee patient recovery, responding to clinical changes.
Educate and support pet parents, explaining treatment plans, procedures, and post-care.
Collaborate with veterinarians, the Clinic Coordinator, and the wider team to optimise clinic workflows.
Promote clinic health and safety and ensure standards are consistently maintained.
Manage stock, equipment, and clinical processes to keep the clinic running smoothly.
Take initiative in new clinic projects and initiatives, contributing to continuous improvement and a positive team culture.
Benefits
Need someone to talk to? Our employee assistance programme through Vitae has got your back, anytime.
Feeling stuck? Let’s chat about your future in our 6-month development review.
Dream big! We’re here to support your career goals and help create a better you.
Never stop learning! Dive into CPD and self-education opportunities on us.
Your wellbeing, your way – that’s what our Connected Lives programme is all about.
Earn what you’re worth with our competitive remuneration packages.
Future you will thank present you for that 3% KiwiSaver contribution we’re making.
Unlock amazing discounts on animal care services and products just for being part of our team through our Teamfirst programme.
Flu season? Not for you? We’ve got your annual jab sorted.
Birthday pancakes in bed? Absolutely! Enjoy that extra paid day off.
Stick with us and earn some serious time off with long service leave.
New addition to the family? Enjoy extra parental leave top-ups.
Not the primary caregiver? We’ve still got paid leave for you.
Need to juggle work and life? Our flexible arrangements have you covered.
Skills & Experience
We’re looking for a confident and proactive Lead Veterinary Nurse. The ideal candidate will:
Hold a Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (or equivalent).
Have proven experience working as a senior veterinary nurse.
Demonstrate confident leadership skills, with the ability to guide and support a small team.
Maintain a strong focus on customer service and building lasting client relationships.
Take a collaborative, team-first approach.
Be proactive and motivated, with a willingness to take on new initiatives.
Be committed to maintaining high standards of patient care and clinic health & safety.
About Petfirst Veterinary
At Petfirst Veterinary, we’re a community of animal lovers committed to making a positive impact. As a 100% Kiwi-owned business, our reach spans across New Zealand, but our heart is in our people.
With cutting-edge tools and technology at your disposal, you’ll work in a supportive environment where you can thrive, follow your passion, and build a meaningful career. Whether it’s helping animals, supporting humans, or growing with your colleagues, you’ll find your place here.
How to Apply
Take the next step in your career today! Click APPLY or contact Toni on 03 318 8611 for a confidential discussion.
After you apply through Seek, one of our friendly team members will be in touch via email to update you on your progress. Shortlisting and interviews will take place during the advertising period.
We can’t wait to welcome a new team member into our Darfield clinic - could it be you?
Applications Close: 19 April 2026
Employer questions
- Have you completed a qualification in veterinary science?
- Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand?
- Do you have customer service experience?
- Are you familiar with the Health, Safety, Environment and Quality (HSEQ) standards?
- How many years' experience do you have as a veterinary nurse?
- What's your expected annual base salary?
- How much notice are you required to give your current employer?
Company profile
Veterinaryfirst is one of New Zealand’s largest veterinary groups, proudly 100% Kiwi owned with 17 locally led clinics nationwide.
Through our Petfirst and Farmfirst brands, we deliver expert, compassionate care to pets and production animals. Our team of 250+ passionate professionals are dedicated to improving the lives of animals and the people who care for them.
With over 50 years of experience, we combine innovation, community values, and trusted partnerships to support pet parents and farmers across the country.
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