Area of Speciality
Clinical Nutrition: Clinical dietitians work in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities, specializing in the nutritional assessment and management of individuals with medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Pediatric Nutrition: Pediatric dietitians focus on the nutritional needs of infants, children, and adolescents. They provide specialized care for pediatric conditions, growth and development, and feeding difficulties.
Sports Nutrition: Sports dietitians work with athletes and active individuals to optimize their performance through nutrition. They provide guidance on pre- and post-workout nutrition, hydration, and specialized diet plans.
Oncology Nutrition: Oncology dietitians support cancer patients with dietary recommendations tailored to their specific needs. They help manage side effects of cancer treatments and promote overall well-being.
Renal Nutrition: Renal dietitians specialize in the dietary management of patients with kidney disease, including those on dialysis. They help maintain proper nutrition while managing kidney function.
Geriatric Nutrition: Geriatric dietitians address the unique nutritional needs of older adults. They focus on promoting healthy aging, managing chronic conditions, and preventing malnutrition.
Weight Management and Bariatric Nutrition: Dietitians specializing in weight management and bariatric nutrition provide guidance to individuals seeking to lose weight or those who have undergone bariatric surgery. They offer personalized meal plans and support.
Gastroenterology Nutrition: Gastroenterology dietitians work with patients with digestive disorders, including celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. They help manage symptoms and maintain proper nutrition.
Community and Public Health Nutrition: Community and public health dietitians focus on health promotion and disease prevention at a population level. They work in public health agencies, schools, and community organizations.
Nutrigenomics and Personalized Nutrition: Dietitians with expertise in nutrigenomics assess individuals' genetic profiles to provide personalized dietary recommendations based on genetic variations.
Functional Nutrition: Functional dietitians take a holistic approach, considering how various factors, including diet, lifestyle, and gut health, impact an individual's overall well-being.
International Medical Graduates
You will typically need to meet specific requirements and go through a registration process. The Dietitians Board of New Zealand is the regulatory authority responsible for dietitian registration in the country. Please note that requirements and processes may change over time, so it's crucial to contact the Dietitians Board of New Zealand directly. Here are the general steps that IMGs need to follow:
Assessment of Qualifications: IMGs need to have their dietetics qualifications assessed by the Dietitians Board of New Zealand. This assessment will determine whether your qualifications are equivalent to New Zealand dietetics qualifications.
English Language Proficiency: As English is the primary language of healthcare in New Zealand, IMGs may be required to demonstrate their English language proficiency. This can often be done through tests like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Occupational English Test (OET).
Competence Assessment Programme (CAP): IMGs who have completed their dietetics education and training outside New Zealand may be required to complete a Competence Assessment Programme (CAP) in New Zealand. This program helps assess your dietetics knowledge, skills, and competence in the New Zealand context. It typically includes both theoretical and clinical components.
Application for Registration: After successfully completing the required assessments and meeting the English language requirements, you can apply for registration with the Dietitians Board of New Zealand. Registration categories may include Provisional Registration or Full Registration, depending on your qualifications and the type of dietetic role you are seeking.
Police Checks and Health Declarations: IMGs may be required to provide evidence of a satisfactory police check and health declarations as part of the registration process.
Visa and Work Eligibility: Ensure that you have the necessary visa and work eligibility to work in New Zealand. Contact New Zealand Immigration for information on visa requirements and work permits.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Registered dietitians in New Zealand are expected to engage in continuing professional development to maintain and enhance their skills and knowledge. You should be prepared to commit to ongoing learning and development as part of your dietetic practice.