Introduction

In Australia, the profession of pharmacy technicians might be unfamiliar since it doesn’t exist here. However, in New Zealand, it is a well-demanded job that involves assisting pharmacists with dispensing tasks. 

Pharmacy technicians‘ roles are quite similar to pharmacists. Their main roles include counselling patients under the supervision of a pharmacist, preparing medications according to prescriptions, and managing drug inventory. Recently, the demand for pharmacy technicians is growing due to an aging population, which increases the need for all types of healthcare. As a result, the demand for pharmacy technicians is also rising.  

Additionally, the outlook for pharmacy technicians is promising, as the profession is listed on the Green List in New Zealand. This means that students who complete the course can expect to obtain permanent residency (PR) after completing their studies. A Pharmacy Technician course in New Zealand typically prepares students to assist pharmacists in various settings, including community pharmacies and hospitals. 

Upon graduation, pharmacy technicians can expect to earn between NZD 52,000 and NZD 60,000 annually. Those who take on additional responsibilities can earn up to NZD 80,000.

Why study Pharmacy Technician in NZ?

Let’s explore the special reasons for studying a Pharmacy Technician course in New Zealand together with SOL Edu. There are several benefits as outlined below: 

  • Reputable Institutions: New Zealand’s educational institutions are known for their high standards and quality education. 
  • Practical Experience: Courses often include practical components, ensuring students gain hands-on experience in real-world settings. 
  • Global Recognition: New Zealand qualifications are recognised internationally, providing students with opportunities to work worldwide. 
  • Job Demand: There is a growing demand for healthcare professionals, including pharmacy technicians, both in New Zealand and globally. 
  • Staying longer in NZ after course completion: With a Level 4 Pharmacy Technician qualification in NZ, you can apply for an Accredited Employer Work Visa. This visa allows you to stay and work in New Zealand for up to five years. Additionally, you can apply for permanent residency afterward. 
  • No background required: The Pharmacy Technician course accepts students who have completed NCEA Level 2 (equivalent to Australia Year 12) or have high school graduation credentials. You can start the course even if you do not have a background in Pharmacy. 

Programs for International Students

The Pharmacy Technician courses in New Zealand can range from Level 3 (Introduction to Pharmacy Practice) to Level 4 and 5 (Certificate in Pharmacy Technician). These courses are designed to cover everything about roles of a Pharmacy Technician, including basic pharmacy theory, customer service, and health and safety.  

  • Introduction to pharmacy practice: This subject focuses on the role and responsibilities of a pharmacy technician. 
  • Pharmacology: This subject will provide basic knowledge of medications with their uses and effects. 
  • Dispensing medications: This subject will help you understand to dispense prescriptions accurately and safely. 
  • Customer service: You will gain skills for interacting with customers and providing healthcare advice after completing a Pharmacy Technician course. 
  • Health and safety: The aim of this subject is to ensure a safe working environment in the pharmacy. 

Wish to know which courses best suit you? Contact SOL Edu on 07 3003 1899 or [email protected] for free consultation and free admission processes. 

Top colleges for Pharmacy Technician

NZMA (New Zealand Management Academies)

NZMA offers a range of vocational courses, including Pharmacy Technician programs, with strong connections to industry professionals and employers. These features provide excellent job placement and networking opportunities, making NZMA a popular choice for aspiring Pharmacy Technicians.

Courses Offered:

  1. Introduction to Pharmacy Practice (Level 3)
    • Duration: 13 weeks
    • Cost: Tuition Fee: $6,000; Resource Fee: $220
    • Training Hours: 320 hours at a pharmacy provider
    • Campus: Hamilton, Auckland Central, Christchurch
    • Qualification: NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Level 3)
    • Academic Requirement: NCEA Level 2 & Interview
    • English Requirement: IELTS score of 5.0
  2. Certificate in Pharmacy Technician (Level 5)
    • Duration: 47 weeks
    • Cost: Tuition Fee: $24,000; Resource Fee: $780
    • Internship: 320 hours at a pharmacy provider
    • Campus: Hamilton, Auckland Central, Christchurch
    • Qualification: NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Level 4) & NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Level 5)
    • Academic Requirement: NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Level 3)
    • English Requirement: IELTS score of 6.0 (no band score lower than 5.5)
  3. Certificate in Pharmacy Technician (Levels 3)
    • Duration: 1.3 years
    • Cost: Tuition Fee: $30,000; Resource Fee: $1,000
    • Campus: Hamilton, Auckland Central, Christchurch
    • Qualification: NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Levels 3, 4, 5)

KAURI Academy (AKA Education Group)

KAURI Academy offers a variety of vocational programs, including Pharmacy Technician courses, with a focus on practical, hands-on training. The academy’s strong connections with local industries facilitate job placements and networking opportunities for students.

Courses Offered:

  1. Certificate in Pharmacy Practice (Level 3)
    • Duration: 40 weeks
    • Cost: Tuition Fee: $7,209
    • Internship: 135 hours at a pharmacy provider
    • Campus: Auckland, Christchurch
    • Qualification: NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Level 3)
    • Academic Requirement: Year 12 or 13 qualification or equivalent (high school) including at least one science subject
    • English Requirement: IELTS score of 5.0 (no band score lower than 5.0)
  2. Certificate in Pharmacy Technician (Level 5)
    • Duration: 62 weeks
    • Cost: Tuition Fee: $29,003
    • Internship: 440 hours at a pharmacy provider
    • Campus: Auckland, Christchurch
    • Qualification: NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Level 4) & NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Level 5)
    • Academic Requirement: NZ Certificate in Pharmacy (Level 3)
    • English Requirement: IELTS score of 5.5 (no band score lower than 5.0)

These programs offer a solid foundation and practical experience for students looking to pursue a career as a Pharmacy Technician in New Zealand.

Tuition Fee for Pharmacy Technician

About NZD 30,000 and the course duration is up to 1.5 years.  

Career Outcomes

There are three main career outcomes for students who graduate from this course: 

  • Working in community pharmacies, including retail pharmacies 
  • Assisting in hospital pharmacies and settings 
  • Working in drug manufacturing and distribution in pharmaceutical industries 

The prominent job search website in Australia, seek.com, is also available in New Zealand. As of July 2024, a search for Pharmacy Technician jobs on New Zealand’s seek.com showed 126 job listings, with 100 of them offering a wage of $35 per hour. This indicates that finding a job meeting visa requirements is not difficult. 

Migration Pathway

You can apply for New Zealand permanent residency via 3 steps below: 

Step 1: Complete New Zealand Certificate in Pharmacy Technician at least Level 4 

Having an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 and a high school graduation makes you eligible for admission. 

Step 2: Apply for Accredited Employer Work Visa 

If you complete New Zealand Certificate in Pharmacy Technician (at least Level 4), you can apply for Accredited Employer Work Visa. This visa allows you to stay and work in New Zealand for five years. To apply for the Accredited Employer Work Visa, you must have visa support from an accredited employer. The job offer should include an hourly wage of $29.66 or more and a minimum of 30 hours per week. 

Step 3: Apply for a Permanent Residence Visa  

  • You will require 6 points to be eligible for this visa. You can claim points from NZ professional registration, qualification, or high-income and skilled work experience in NZ.  
  • You must be 55 years old or under when you are invited to apply for this visa. 
  • You must have current employment, or a job offer in NZ with at least 30 hours per week and with the required minimum wage ($29.66 per hour as of 2024). 
  • An overall IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent is also required for this visa. 

Contact our experienced team today on 07 3003 1899 or [email protected] to know if you are eligible for a permanent visa in New Zealand! We will respond to you within 24 hours at the latest.  

FAQs

Where do pharmacy technicians work?

After graduation, you can work in community pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, aged care facilities, retail pharmacies, and chain pharmacies like Chemist Warehouse, Unichem, and Countdown Pharmacy. Your responsibilities may include handling prescription fulfillment and offering advice on over-the-counter medications. 

NZMA and KAURI academy have strong connections with Chemist Warehouse, Unichem, Countdown Pharmacy, and Life Pharmacy, which are prominent pharmacies in New Zealand. During your studies, you will be guaranteed an interview with one of them. If successful, you will be recruited as a part-time employee during your studies. This will provide you with valuable experience and great exposure to the industry.

Is certification necessary to become a pharmacy technician?

Yes, certification is necessary to become a pharmacy technician in New Zealand. Pharmacy technicians must be registered with the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand, which typically requires completing an accredited training program and obtaining the appropriate qualifications.