Zoetis Rotating Internship
Proudly supporting the next generation of veterinary specialists
Grow your career with us
The rotating internship program was established in 2001 in association with Zoetis (previously Pfizer) to provide a pathway for veterinarians to progress to specialisation.
Since 2002, over 31 veterinarians have completed the program, with 12 completing residency programs and earning specialist status in their chosen field including surgery, radiology, internal medicine, cardiology, and dermatology.
The 2027 application period has closed.
Learn from leading specialists
Founded on a commitment to advanced specialist veterinary care, Veterinary Specialists Aotearoa has grown into New Zealand’s leading specialist veterinary organisation.
We operate three world-class specialist and emergency hospitals nationwide, supporting the wider veterinary community and their patients. Every patient we see means we have the privilege to deliver high-quality care that meets individual patient needs.
The internship is based at our Auckland hospitals in Sylvia Park and Auckland West, located in New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city.
Auckland offers a number of lifestyle opportunities from easy-access to beaches, and its lush agricultural areas. With beautiful, friendly communities, multiple universities, and access to the city, making it easy to balance work with life outside the hospital.
Practical, real-world experience
Our rotating internship is a dynamic 12‑month program and an ideal first step towards specialist training. Commencing in January, interns rotate through our two Auckland hospitals.
Working alongside a team of specialists, you will shadow and assist with referral consultations, procedures and surgeries, gaining exposure to complex cases and the highest standard of specialist veterinary care. You will also spend time within our emergency service, building real-world consulting confidence with the reassurance of experienced support. This hands-on, immersive experience is designed to develop both your clinical skills and professional confidence, laying a strong foundation for the next stage of your specialist journey.
- Embark on a dynamic 12-month program
- Experience a wide culture across cardiology, oncology, and supportive work environments
- Engage in a rotating teaching program featuring regular tutorials, RCVS-certified CPD, with the opportunity to upskill procedural work and ultrasound training
- Practise patient care within our acute in-patient hospital care equipped with cutting-edge amenities
- Experience a collaborative and supportive environment
- Receive guidance and support in planning your next steps, residency program or graduate studies
Role requirements
- Successful applicants should be committed, intelligent, open-minded scientists and dedicated, willing, enthusiastic veterinarians, regardless of experience level
- Graduation and completion of Bachelor of Veterinary Science, Doctor Veterinary Medicine or equivalent
- Register to be a veterinarian in New Zealand by course commencement date
Applications for 2027 have closed
Check back early 2027 for when our 2028 positions open.
Benefit from our proven expertise and long-standing success. Since the inception of our program in 2001, we have supported the development of more than 35 interns.
We’re proud of our diverse, unique careers program that spans clinical training, primary care, or roles beyond clinical practice, all taking with them the depth of knowledge, confidence, and experience gained at VSA.
If you would like to find out more, please direct your questions to Recruitment Manager, Bridget Cassidy at careers@vsnz.co.nz.
