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Pharmacist

J677413 Whakatane Bay of Plenty NZD110K - NZD160K / Year

Pharmacist, Whakatāne, New Zealand
Coastal Living , Leadership & Ownership, Regional Community Impact

We are working with a well-established and expanding pharmacy group to recruit a Pharmacist for a thriving community pharmacy in Whakatāne, Bay of Plenty.

This is a perfect opportunity for pharmacists seeking professional growth, leadership experience, and long-term ownership potential, all while enjoying the relaxed lifestyle and natural beauty of New Zealand's eastern Bay of Plenty.

Why Whakatāne?
Whakatāne offers a unique combination of small-town charm, coastal living, and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal location for relocation.

• Affordable housing and lower cost of living than New Zealand's larger cities
• Short commute times and a friendly, community-focused environment
• Access to stunning beaches, rivers, lakes, and forests for outdoor recreation
• Strong local schools and healthcare infrastructure
• Close proximity to Tauranga and Rotorua for additional amenities or travel

For pharmacists coming from overseas, Whakatāne provides space, sunshine, and a slower pace of life, without compromising on career opportunity or progression.

About the Role
You'll work in a high-functioning, well-supported pharmacy providing free prescriptions and a wide variety of clinical services, including:

• Vaccinations and immunisations
• Emergency contraception and minor ailment consultations
• UTI management and general primary healthcare services

The pharmacy features modern dispensing technology, experienced technicians, and multiple pharmacists, allowing you to focus on high-quality patient care in a collaborative environment.

Career Development & Ownership
This role offers far more than a standard pharmacy position, it's a career-defining opportunity.

• Opportunities exist to progress into:
• Pharmacist in Charge (PIC) roles
• Senior clinical or regional leadership positions
• Managing Partner / Co-Owner roles, supported by structured financial and banking guidance

For pharmacists interested in ownership, Whakatāne provides a clear pathway to co-own a pharmacy, combining career satisfaction with long-term financial security.

Registration, Relocation & Support
International pharmacists are fully supported through the transition to New Zealand:

• Clinical exam and registration with the New Zealand Pharmacy Council
• Supervised practice period on arrival (typically 48 weeks)
• Supervised pay rate: NZD $45 per hour
• Post-registration rates increase, with high performers starting above NZD $50.88 per hour
• NZD $10,000 relocation allowance (taxed locally)
• Key professional costs covered, including APC registration fees and insurance

Whakatāne is on New Zealand's Green List, easing residency and visa pathways for eligible international pharmacists.

Salary Perspective
NZD salaries should not be directly compared to GBP. The broader value includes affordable coastal living, lifestyle quality, safety, healthcare access, and ownership opportunities, delivering long-term benefits beyond the hourly rate.

Who This Role Is Ideal For

• UK, Irish, and international pharmacists considering relocation
• NZ-registered pharmacists seeking leadership or ownership opportunities
• Pharmacists who want career growth in a vibrant, regional coastal community

Why Now?
Regional demand for pharmacists in the Bay of Plenty is strong, and Whakatāne is expanding. Skilled pharmacists are the key enabler of growth, making this a rare opportunity to join a pharmacy with support, career progression, and long-term ownership potential in an incredible location.

To find out more, hit apply and the team will be in touch to chat to you about your options to move to New Zealand as a Pharmacist.