What is a Nurse Practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners bridge nursing and medicine, combining advanced nursing knowledge with the ability to assess, diagnose, prescribe and manage treatment plans.
The role of a Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) play a vital role in modern healthcare. At Ocean Breeze Health, NP-led care means safe, timely, patient-centred care with the same prescribing authority as a GP.
Who are Nurse Practitioners?
Nurse Practitioners are highly trained health professionals who provide care for people with both common and complex conditions. They work independently and as part of a clinical team, so patients get the right treatment at the right time.
Can Nurse Practitioners prescribe medicines?
Yes. Nurse Practitioners are authorised prescribers under New Zealand's Medicines Act, alongside doctors, dentists, midwives and optometrists. They can evaluate, diagnose, prescribe, treat and plan care within their area of expertise.
How many Nurse Practitioners are there in New Zealand?
There are now more than 650 Nurse Practitioners working across Aotearoa, in hospitals, general practices and community health services.
Watch the Ministry of Health video on Nurse PractitionersWhat can a Nurse Practitioner help with?
- Health checks and routine care
- Diagnosing and treating illness or injury
- Prescribing and managing medicines
- ACC injury assessments and follow-up
- Referrals to specialists or other services
- Ongoing management of long-term conditions
Why see a Nurse Practitioner here?
Accessible appointments, personalised care and the same prescribing authority as a GP, working closely with the rest of our team so you get the right care, faster.
Pip Harpur, our Nurse Practitioner and clinical lead, has over 10 years in General Practice and Urgent Care. Meet the team.