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Becoming a pharmacist is all about being a trusted health expert. Knowing how to become a pharmacist in New Zealand can open doors to a rewarding career with great pay and plenty of opportunities. This blog breaks down the full journey, from the courses you need to the skills that matter, top universities, and job options in 2025. If you are a student planning your career or someone looking to move to New Zealand, these practical tips and insights will help you plan your pharmacy pathway like a pro.
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Why Choose Pharmacy in New Zealand?
Pharmacy in New Zealand is a smart career choice for students who want a stable, rewarding, and impactful profession. The country offers high-quality education, a modern healthcare system, and strong demand for pharmacists. Choosing a pharmacy in New Zealand opens doors to multiple career paths and growth opportunities.
- High Demand for Pharmacists: Hospitals, clinics, and community pharmacies constantly need qualified professionals.
- Good Salary and Benefits: Pharmacists earn competitive pay with opportunities for growth.
- Diverse Career Paths: Work in community pharmacies, hospitals, research, or health tech.
- Quality Education: Accredited universities provide practical training and international recognition.
- Work-Life Balance: New Zealand promotes a healthy lifestyle alongside professional growth.
Steps to Become a Pharmacist in New Zealand
Becoming a pharmacist in New Zealand as an international student requires several clear steps. Each step ensures that your education, skills, and knowledge meet New Zealand’s standards.
1. Initial Consideration Application
The Pharmacy Council of New Zealand reviews your qualifications first. You must submit your pharmacy degree and proof that you are a registered pharmacist in your home country.
- The required document includes your Certificate of Current Professional Status (CCPS).
- The application fee is NZD 950.
2. Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) Exam
The Pharmacy Council tests your knowledge through the OPRA exam. You must pass it to show that you understand pharmacy practice in New Zealand.
- The exam is held 3 times a year.
- You can attempt it two times if needed.
3. New Zealand Pharmacy Legislation (NZPL) Course
The Pharmacy Council provides an online NZPL course. It teaches you New Zealand pharmacy laws, ethics, and regulations.
- You must pass this course before moving to internship registration.
4. Intern Pharmacist Registration
The Pharmacy Council registers you as an Intern Pharmacist once you pass OPRA and NZPL.
- You complete a 12-month supervised internship in a New Zealand pharmacy.
- The registration fee is NZD 909.
5. Intern Training Programme
The Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand runs the Intern Training Programme. It helps you learn practical skills and professional competencies.
- You must complete all assessments during the internship.
6. Full Pharmacist Registration
The Pharmacy Council grants full registration after successful internship completion.
- You must submit proof of completing your internship and assessments.
- The registration fee is NZD 1,660.
7. Annual Practicing Certificate (APC)
You need an Annual Practicing Certificate to work legally as a pharmacist.
- You must renew the APC every year.
- You must complete professional development and follow ethical standards.
Estimated Costs for International Students
- Initial Consideration Application: NZD 950
- OPRA Exam: NZD 1,200
- NZPL Course: NZD 500
- Intern Pharmacist Registration: NZD 909
- Intern Training Programme: NZD 3,000
- Full Pharmacist Registration: NZD 1,660
- Annual Practising Certificate: NZD 1,020
- Total Estimated Cost: NZD 8,239
Also Read: List of Most in-Demand UX Researcher Jobs Abroad in 2025
Skills Required to Become a Pharmacist in New Zealand
Here we have highlighted the skills that are required to help you become a pharmacist in New Zealand.
- Attention to Detail
- Communication Skills
- Problem-Solving
- Scientific Knowledge
- Empathy and Interpersonal Skills
- Organization and Time Management
- Collaboration
- Adaptability
- Regulatory Knowledge
Top Universities For Pharmacists in New Zealand
Studying pharmacy in New Zealand provides access to world-class education and a pathway to a rewarding career in healthcare. Here is a table for better understanding.
| University Name | Location | QS World Ranking 2025 | Course Name | Average Annual Tuition |
| University of Auckland | Auckland | 65 | Bachelor of Pharmacy | NZD 30,000 – NZD 50,000 |
| University of Otago | Dunedin | 197 | Bachelor of Pharmacy | NZD 25,000 – NZD 45,000 |
| University of Waikato | Hamilton | 281 | Master of Pharmacy Practice | NZD 30,000 – NZD 48,000 |
| Victoria University of Wellington | Wellington | 240 | Master of Pharmacy | NZD 28,000 – NZD 46,000 |
| Massey University | Palmerston North | 230 | Master of Clinical Pharmacy | NZD 32,000 – NZD 50,000 |
Also Read: Where Can I Exchange Currency for Free to Study Abroad?
Cost of Living for Students in New Zealand
Living in New Zealand as a student offers a mix of safe cities. However, understanding the cost of living is important to plan your budget effectively. Here’s the average cost of living.
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (NZD) |
| Shared Accommodation | NZD 800 – NZD 1,500 |
| Food & Groceries | NZD 400 – NZD 700 |
| Transportation | NZD 100 – NZD 200 |
| Utilities & Internet | NZD 150 – NZD 250 |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | NZD 200 – NZD 400 |
| Total Estimated Cost | NZD 1,650 – NZD 3,050 |
Jobs Opportunities & Salary for Pharmacists in New Zealand
Pharmacists in New Zealand have access to a variety of high-paying roles. Salaries are competitive and grow with experience and specialization. Here are some of the top-paying pharmacist roles for international graduates.
| Role | Average Annual Salary (NZD) |
| Senior Clinical Pharmacist | NZD 155,000 – NZD 198,000 |
| Hospital Pharmacist | NZD 96,000 – NZD 133,000 |
| Industrial Pharmacist | NZD 80,000 – NZD 120,000 |
| Regulatory Affairs Pharmacist | NZD 80,000 – NZD 110,000 |
| Pharmacy Owner | NZD 90,000 – NZD 120,000 |
Also Read: How to Settle in Canada from India as a Student?
FAQs
Ans: Yes, a foreign pharmacist can work in New Zealand. They must have their qualifications assessed by the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand and complete the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA) and required internship to obtain full registration.
Ans: It typically takes 3–5 years for international graduates to become fully registered pharmacists in New Zealand. This includes time for exams, the NZPL course, a 12-month internship, and completing the Intern Training Programme.
Ans: The main exam is the Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment (OPRA). It tests knowledge of pharmacy practice relevant to New Zealand and must be passed before applying for intern registration.
Relatable Reads
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