Lead Veterinarian / Senior Veterinarian Inglewood & Waitara, Taranaki, New Zealand Employment Type: Full-Time

About the Clinic: Established in 1993 as a contract practice servicing local vet club members, the Inglewood site has delivered veterinary care since 1963 (with the club founded in 1946).

Originally formed by two veterinarians previously with the local group, the company provided contracted services to the club. In 2004, a further contract was secured with the Waitara-based club (servicing North Taranaki since 1951 and on their current site since 1962).

Today, the practice services a wide area from Mokau to Tariki. It is proudly owned by four shareholders, all actively working in the business. From a 1993 team of 4 vets and 5 support staff, it has grown to 16 vets and 30 support staff (including management, administration, reception, nurses, technicians, and sales) by 2021. Both clinic buildings have been modernised and expanded to support growing companion animal services and team.

The practice remains deeply connected to Taranaki’s dominant dairy industry (58% of workload), while the companion animal division (cats & dogs) now represents 35% of the business with 5 dedicated vets. The balance includes horses, sheep, beef, goats, deer, alpacas, and any species requiring expert care. The clinic fosters a culture of innovation and is always excited to bring creative ideas to life.

The Role: Seeking an experienced Lead Veterinarian / Senior Veterinarian to join the dynamic and friendly team in Inglewood & Waitara. This role offers a leadership opportunity in a balanced mixed practice, with a focus on dairy and companion animals, while providing opportunities to mentor staff and develop skills across all disciplines. You'll work closely with farming enterprises and companion animal owners while collaborating with a supportive, experienced team to deliver exceptional veterinary care in a rewarding rural setting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Providing high-quality care for dairy (58%), companion animals (35%), and production/lifestyle species (farm consults, diagnostics, surgery, and advice).
• Building strong relationships with farming enterprises and companion animal owners.
• Offering comprehensive services including routine care, emergency treatments, and preventative health programs for mixed caseload.
• Working collaboratively within the team of experienced veterinarians, management, and support staff; leading and mentoring junior vets.

Skills and Qualifications:

• At least 7 years of experience in mixed animal practice (dairy and companion animal focus preferred).
• Confident communicator who can connect with both companion animal clients and farm colleagues.
• Self-motivated, team player who thrives in a supportive environment.

Desirable Attributes:

• Strong clinical and leadership skills across dairy, small, and large animal systems.
• Passion for balanced mixed practice and building long-term client relationships.
• Enthusiasm for both companion animal medicine and farm advisory services.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and staff mentoring.
• Interest in innovative approaches to mixed veterinary practice.

What the Clinic Offers:

• A generous salary: $125,000 – $150,000 NZD commensurate with experience.
• Company vehicle (fully maintained, with personal use options).
• Paid Veterinary Board Registration and professional memberships.
• Working Hours: Flexible full-time roster with shared afterhours (separate dairy and companion animal on-call).
• Shared Afterhours: Afterhours are shared between the team with a balanced roster.
• Work-Life Balance: Located in the heart of Taranaki, you'll have access to beaches, mountain walks, surfing, and vibrant rural communities, alongside great cafes, restaurants, and local events.
• Career Growth: The clinic is committed to professional development and offers plenty of opportunities for continued learning, leadership, and career progression.
• Top-notch Veterinary Tools: Work with modern, well-equipped clinics and the latest technology to deliver exceptional care.

About Inglewood & Waitara Inglewood and Waitara are located in the heart of the stunning Taranaki region, known for its iconic mountain, fertile dairy farmland, and strong community spirit. With easy access to beaches, coastal walks, surfing, and outdoor adventures, it offers an ideal blend of professional opportunity and a relaxed, vibrant lifestyle.

Note: Applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand. Sponsorship may be available for the right candidate.

Please email dewehji.akran@gvcvets.com for any information or queries.