To become a hospital nurse you need to have a Bachelor of Nursing degree. You also need to be registered with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, and have a current Annual Practising Certificate.

At least four years of secondary education is required to enter tertiary training, although five years is preferred. Useful subjects include English, maths, chemistry and biology.

Hospital departments usually provide training for nursing specialities. Most hospitals hold regular lectures and seminars on a range of topics, as nurses need to keep up to date with training procedures and equipment.

Nurses may also undertake postgraduate programmes, which are available through polytechnics and some universities.

Any experience in the health industry, such as work in rest homes, nursing homes or with people with disabilities is useful, as is counselling experience.