Anaesthetic Technicians assist anaesthetists in preparing and maintaining anaesthetic equipment and drugs. NZ's surgical backlog and perioperative workforce shortage make this a priority recruitment occupation.
Talk to a licensed NZ immigration adviser about your Anaesthetic Technician visa pathway.
Get Free Assessment →This is an ANZSCO Skill Level 3 occupation, qualifying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) with up to 5 years duration. After 2 years of NZ work experience you can apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence.
Anaesthetic Technicians work directly with anaesthetists to set up, check, and maintain anaesthetic machines and equipment, draw up and prepare anaesthetic drugs, and assist in the induction and emergence from anaesthesia. They are a critical part of the perioperative team across NZ's public and private hospitals. **What the work involves:** Preparing and checking anaesthetic machines, ventilators, and monitoring equipment, drawing up drug infusions, assisting with airway management, monitoring patient vitals intraoperatively, managing anaesthetic consumables stock. **Why NZ needs you:** NZ has a critical shortage of anaesthetic technicians. The surgical backlog from COVID-19 and an ageing population have intensified demand. NZATS regularly advertises that positions are going unfilled nationwide.
Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.
Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026
Yes. Anaesthetic Technician (ANZSCO 311211) is ANZSCO Skill Level 2, qualifying for a 5-year AEWV with no English evidence requirement. NZATS registration is required.
You can apply for provisional registration before or after arrival. Most NZ hospitals will sponsor your registration. Contact NZATS early as applications can take several months.
Yes — NZ has a critical shortage. The surgical backlog from COVID-19 and an ageing population have intensified demand. Te Whatu Ora actively recruits overseas anaesthetic technicians.
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