Senior Companion Animal Veterinarian – Darfield

Make a Real Difference | Join Our Team in Darfield!

Are you a Senior Veterinarian with a strong surgical & consulting companion animal skill set, looking for your next adventure? Are you looking to step up and take the next step in your career? We are seeking an experienced and motivated small animal veterinarian to join our busy and welcoming team in Darfield, Canterbury - where every day brings the opportunity to make a meaningful difference for the animals in our care and the people who rely on us.

We are a proactive, passionate team that values collaboration, professional growth, and a supportive working environment. Our preference is for a Senior Companion Animal Veterinarian; however, we are also open to considering a Mixed Animal Veterinarian.

Full-time employment is preferred (40 hours per week, plus rostered Saturdays and on-call rotation), though part-time hours of three to four days per week may be considered for the right candidate. This is an excellent opportunity to join a fun, dedicated group of professionals who are as committed to your development as they are to delivering exceptional veterinary care.

About the Role

As a Companion Animal Veterinarian, you’ll have the responsibility of supporting and mentoring our CA team delivering exceptional service, while providing excellence in care to our Petfirst clients and their fur families. This role isn’t just a job it’s a chance to spend time as an integral part of a passionate, supportive team in one of New Zealand’s most exceptional places.

You will be the senior, go-to, surgical clinician within the team - providing leadership and mentorship for the small animal team. The clinic is modern and spacious with a strong, friendly culture.

If you value a supportive environment, professional growth, and a chance to make a meaningful difference, this role is for you. For large animal if you are a Mixed Veterinarian - our on-call roster is structured to ensure a balance between your work and personal life, with weekends on call generally once every 1 in 5 weeks or less and 1 weeknight. For companion animal veterinarians - our Saturday clinic roster is 1 in 4 weekends.

Key Responsibilities:

• Mentor and support junior Companion Animal team members supporting their development and upskilling.
• Develop our people and our Small Animal business and find new possibilities for delivering value to our customers.
• Provide exceptional veterinary care to our companion animal patients, ensuring their well-being and quality of life.
• Perform surgical procedures and treatments as required, delivering the highest standards of care.
• Pursue continuing education and stay current with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine.
• Contribute to a positive and collaborative workplace culture where every team member thrives.
• Grow your current skillset by learning from industry leaders.
• Work with a nursing, technician and support team who take standard of care to the next level!

What You’ll Bring!

• New Zealand Veterinary Council Registration and Annual Practicing Certificate (or equivalency enabling registration).
• A Bachelor of Veterinary Science with a minimum of 5+ years’ experience in Companion Animal Practice.
• Demonstrated interest or experience in leadership within a clinical setting.
• A proven clinical skill set including surgery and consulting.
• Experience handling difficult or complex cases with professionalism and expertise.
• A warm, approachable personality that makes both customers and colleagues feel valued and supported.
• Exceptional communication skills, ensuring smooth collaboration with your team and clarity for farmers and pet parents.
• A strong sense of compassion and empathy, treating every patient as if they were your own.
• A team-first mindset, thriving in a collaborative environment where everyone supports each other.
• Curiosity and a growth mindset, eager to embrace new skills and advancements in veterinary care.
• Reliability and professionalism, ensuring your work is consistent, accurate, and of the highest standard.

About Us!

At Petfirst and Farmfirst Veterinary, we’re more than just a veterinary practice we’re a passionate community of animal lovers committed to making a positive difference for both animals and people. Our clinics, located across some of New Zealand’s most beautiful regions, are equipped with cutting-edge tools and technology to support our teams. But our real strength lies in our people. We believe work should be more than just a job - it should be a place where you can thrive, follow your passions, and find meaning in what you do every day.

We’re on a mission to create a community where pets flourish, and their owners feel confident in their ability to care for them. As a proudly Kiwi-owned group, we’re transforming the way we deliver veterinary care, combining great people with innovative technology to offer exceptional care. We’re equally dedicated to our team, providing a supportive environment where you can grow, develop your skills, and build a fulfilling career. Whether you’re passionate about making a difference for animals, people, or your colleagues, you’ll find a home with us.

Why Join Us?

• 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.

Why Darfield?

Located in the heart of Canterbury and just 40 minutes from Christchurch, it combines small-town friendliness with easy access to city amenities. With affordable housing, excellent schools, and proximity to the Southern Alps, ski fields, rivers, and beaches, Darfield is ideal for those seeking a balanced life with plenty of outdoor adventure and a close-knit community feel.

Ready to Join Us?

To apply, email your cover letter and CV to careers@veterinaryfirst.co.nz

For a confidential conversation about the role, please call Toni Parris (Clinic Coordinator) on 03 318 8611.

Once you’ve applied, one of our friendly team members will email you within a week to update you on your application progress. Please note we’ll be shortlisting and conducting interviews throughout the advertising period.

We’re excited to meet you and can’t wait to welcome a new team member into our Darfield clinic!

Could it be you?