Veterinary Nurse & Customer Care - Havelock North

Veterinary Nurse & Customer Care - Havelock North
Permanent, Part Time

Are you passionate about animals and love creating exceptional experiences for pet parents? Join our warm and supportive team in beautiful Havelock North as a Veterinary Nurse & Customer Care superstar.

This part-time role (25 hours per week with a rotating 1:3 Saturday clinic) offers a unique opportunity to combine clinical nursing skills with customer-facing responsibilities, supporting both the wellbeing of our patients and the smooth running of our busy clinic. This is a split of approximately 2/3 customer care and 1/3 nursing.

You'll be joining a proactive and caring team that values collaboration, growth, and compassion - not just for animals, but for each other too.

About the Role

This is a dual role where no two days are the same. You’ll focus your time around delivering hands-on veterinary nursing care and providing exceptional front-of-house support to our clients and their pets.

You’ll work closely with our clinical and admin teams and be an integral part of creating a welcoming, efficient, and high-quality veterinary service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Welcome clients and their pets, providing a warm and professional first point of contact
• Proactively schedule appointments, respond to phone/email enquiries, and manage digital communications
• Assist in surgical procedures and support anaesthesia and patient monitoring
• Administer medications, support post-operative care, and manage patient recovery
• Maintain accurate patient records, client documentation, and ensure clinical supplies are well-stocked
• Educate pet owners on treatment plans, post-care instructions, and general animal health
• Offer advice on pet health and nutrition products, process payments, and support product sales and recommendation
• Assist with animal handling and basic patient care as needed to support the clinical team

What You’ll Bring!

We’re looking for someone who’s as passionate about animals as we are and brings:

• New Zealand working rights (required)
• A Diploma in Veterinary Nursing or currently studying to complete the Diploma
• A genuine passion for the human animal bond, pet care and customer experiences
• Confidence in consultation, anaesthesia and patient monitoring (or a willingness to learn)
• Excellent communication skills, with a friendly, professional approach to customers and colleagues
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to multitask in a busy clinical environment
• Previous experience in reception, retail, or clinic admin is a bonus
• A team-focused mindset with a proactive, positive, above the line attitude

About Us!

At Petfirst 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 Havelock North?

Thinking about a change of scenery? Havelock North is a fantastic spot for a vet nurse to live and work. This friendly little town in Hawke’s Bay has a relaxed vibe, great cafes, stunning beaches and wineries just around the corner, and plenty of walking trails to explore on your days off. It’s the kind of place where you can actually enjoy work-life balance - doing what you love during the day and soaking up everything the region has to offer after hours. If you're after a lifestyle that’s calm, connected, and full of charm, Havelock North might just be your next move.

Ready to Join Us?

Apply through Seek and be sure to attach your cover letter and CV or contact Hayley (Clinic Coordinator) on 0272632865 for a confidential discussion.

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 Havelock North clinic!

Could it be you?