6min read
A career in nursing can take you across cities, states, and sometimes even countries with tuna toss festivals. For RN Caitlin, what began in New Zealand as a passion for caring for people in need and emergency care has evolved into a thriving travel nursing career in Australia. And there’s no looking back…
For many New Zealand nurses considering working in Australia, travel nursing offers a unique pathway to build experience, gain flexibility, and explore new regions while having opportunities for professional growth. In other words, more of what you want, and less of what you don’t.
RN Caitlin’s story is one many Kiwi nurses will relate to: loving the nursing profession but questioning the sustainability long-term. Then, taking a leap, to discover that sometimes, the biggest career growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.
A Registered Nurse for nearly a decade, Caitlin has had an exciting journey with plenty of stories to tell (and many more to come, we’re sure).
Caitlin tells us that she was “initially drawn to nursing for the science aspect and the ability to travel almost anywhere. I love working as an ED nurse, as I enjoy the fast-paced environment and helping care for people in their time of need.”
Today, nearly three years into her Australian journey, Caitlin has no plans of turning back. Hear more about RN Caitlin’s experience with moving from New Zealand to pursue travel nursing contracts in Australia below.
Plus, find out which region is RN Caitlin’s favourite and why.
Why RN Caitlin Made the Move from New Zealand
For Caitlin, the decision to leave New Zealand wasn’t made lightly. Like many nurses, she found herself exhausted by the pace and pressure of the system.
“I was burnt out. Doing consecutive twelve hour shifts with no breaks was getting too much for me. Having multiple governments in power that refused to believe there was a problem with the healthcare system in NZ also heavily contributed to my decision to leave. It was a hard decision to make initially, but I have not regretted it once since leaving.”
What began as a giant leap has become one of the most rewarding chapters of her career so far.
“I have loved every second of nursing in Australia. Going on 3 years now and I have no plans on going back.”
Experiencing Emergency Department Nursing Contracts Across Australia
Caitlin’s emergency nursing background has been central to her travel journey. Through agency contracts, she’s been able to work in facilities across the country, building experience while rediscovering her passion for ED nursing.
“Nursing for Affinity in Australia has given me my dream career as I have been all over the country working.”
For many New Zealand nurses, differences in workload, staffing support, and patient interaction can make nursing in Australia feel like a more sustainable long-term pathway.
One of the biggest differences RN Caitlin noticed? Time and team culture.
“I especially enjoy having time to talk to my patients which is a bit of a luxury in New Zealand, and having great banter and laughs with the work mates.”
Beyond the clinical work, travel nursing has expanded her personal network in ways she never expected.
“I have also made friendships for life and am not short of places to stay when on holiday.”
Stepping Up in Rural and Remote Australia
Travel nursing in Australia has also accelerated Caitlin’s clinical growth, particularly in rural and remote settings.
“I have gained numerous skills and experiences as a travel nurse. More than I could have ever imagined. Career wise most importantly would be being able to manage remote clinics without doctors on site (or within the nearest few hundred kilometres).”
Working in these environments requires confidence, critical thinking and adaptability – qualities Caitlin has developed through each placement.
Outside of the clinical skills, she’s also experienced something uniquely Australian.
“Outside of work, I’d have to say experiencing the Australian kindness from strangers! Small town Aussie folk are incredibly kind and generous people!”
Why Lismore is RN Caitlin’s Favourite Contract Location
While Caitlin has worked across a number of states and facilities, one placement stands out above the rest.
“My favourite facility would have to be Lismore in NSW. The facility was the best ED I’ve worked in to date. An ED that is designed for the staff with the best equipment available.”
Support and professional development played a big part in making the experience memorable.
“I also felt a part of the team from day one and was supported very well by the local staff. Daily education for nurses was an added bonus.”
And, of course, lifestyle is a huge factor when it comes to building a career that supports both your wellbeing and ambition.
“I had an absolute blast working there and the proximity to some of Australia’s most beautiful towns and beaches is also a huge bonus!”
What Are Travel Contracts Like Beyond the Ward?
Some of Caitlin’s favourite memories have been from her travels and explorations outside of work.
“I think the absolute highlight of my time here was going to the Illuminate Festival in Adelaide last winter. Especially the botanical gardens exhibit which was an immersive light and sound experience that I will never forget!”
Australia’s hidden gems have also left their mark.
“My favourite hidden gem would be Telowie gorge. A beautiful gorge hidden off a dirt road in South Australia.”
And then there’s the story that has become legendary among the Affinity nursing and midwifery community…
“Honestly it’s a funny one, but a recent photo of me tossing a fake tuna at the Tunarama festival in Port Lincoln. I came 4th in the woman’s competition but most importantly gained bragging rights at my current place of work for being one of the top tuna tossers in Australia.”
From immersive light festivals to outback gorges and tuna tossing competitions, travel nursing has given Caitlin experiences that she never would have encountered by staying in her comfort zone.
Why RN Caitlin Chooses Affinity for Every Placement
For Caitlin, consistency and a dedicated support line have been key to pursuing her travel career.
“The 24/7 support! I have never had to worry about securing any contracts because of Affinity’s professional team working hard to keep me busy. This is why all my contracts have been solely through Affinity.”
Behind every successful contract is an Affinity Specialist who understands your goals – and works hard to make them happen. Caitlin feels her Placements Specialist has been of a great help and made all the difference.
“She has put in some incredible work securing me contract after contract in places I actually want to go. While also taking time to have a friendly yarn from time to time.”
The perfect combination of industry knowledge, great support and genuine connection can truly make all the difference.
Advice for New Zealand Nurses
For nurses who are considering crossing the ditch from New Zealand to move to Australia and pursue travel nursing, Caitlin’s advice is simple and wholehearted.
“Just do it! If you want to live the nursing career you’ve always dreamed of while seeing some of the most beautiful places and sites in Australia then come work for Affinity! You won’t regret it, I certainly haven’t.”
Why Does Travel Nursing in Australia Appeals to New Zealand Nurses?
Travel nursing in Australia can offer:
- Flexible working options to suit your lifestyle
- Opportunities across stunning Australian destinations
- Exposure to diverse healthcare environments
- Strong earning potential through agency work
- The ability to travel across Australia while supporting your career
How Can Travel Nursing Support Your Personal Goals?
Travel nursing in Australia involves short-term nursing roles across hospitals and healthcare facilities, often in regional, rural and remote areas, offering flexibility, career progression, and diverse clinical experiences.
Caitlin’s journey shows what’s possible when clinical ambition meets a great community and support system. From overcoming burnout to managing remote clinics, thriving in high-performing emergency departments tossing tuna at coastal festivals – her professional and personal life has evolved in ways she never imagined.
For New Zealand nurses wondering what lies on the other side of the Tasman, RN Caitlin’s story offers reassurance: the move can be challenging, but it can also be transformational.
With 24/7 support, consistent contracts, and one-of-a-kind opportunities across regional, rural and remote Australia, travel nursing with Affinity makes it possible to build a sustainable, rewarding career in nursing while still experiencing everything Australia has to offer.
Ready to take the leap in your nursing or midwifery career? Get started with Affinity Nursing to see where your next chapter could take you.
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