18 Month Equine Internship Opportunity

Rangiora Veterinary Centre Equine Hospital

Are you a new or recently graduated veterinarian with a passion for equine practice, hospitalised horse care, and anaesthesia?

Rangiora Veterinary Centre Equine Hospital is offering an 18-month Equine Internship within our growing equine hospital in North Canterbury, New Zealand.

This is a unique opportunity to gain extensive experience in a collaborative and supportive team of nine experienced equine veterinarians, including a specialist equine surgeon, with dedicated equine nursing support. Our internship is designed to provide a strong clinical foundation for veterinarians pursuing a future in equine general practice, advanced clinical work, or residency training

What We Offer

The internship is predominantly hospital based and the successful applicant will gain experience in all aspect of equine veterinary care including:

  • Hospitalised horse care

  • Equine anaesthesia

  • Medicine and surgery

  • Lameness and sports medicine

  • Diagnostic imaging – CT, digital radiography, ultrasonography, endoscopy

  • Ambulatory and first-opinion practice

  • Reproduction and stud medicine

The successful candidate will work closely with experienced clinicians in both hospital and field settings, gaining progressive responsibility and confidence throughout the program.

In this role, you’ll be:

  • Assisting with equine surgeries and maintaining theatre protocols.

  • Assisting ambulatory vets on farm with field surgeries, lameness exams and diagnostics.

  • Delivering high-quality nursing care to surgical and hospitalised patients.

  • Supporting and mentoring colleagues in a collaborative team environment.

  • Helping manage daily hospital operations.

  • Participating in our after-hours and weekend roster.

  • Maintaining high standards of hygiene across equipment, instruments, and facilities.

  • Overseeing stock control, invoicing, and accurate record-keeping.

  • Communicating effectively with clients, referring vets, and the wider community.

  • Coordinating bookings, admissions, triage, and discharges.

Why Join Our Team?

At RVC Equine, we pride ourselves on our strong team culture and collaborative approach to patient care. We are passionate about providing a high standard of equine veterinary care while fostering mentorship, professional growth, and clinical excellence.

About You

We are looking for a veterinarian who is:

  • Enthusiastic and motivated to learn

  • Passionate about equine practice

  • Committed to providing excellent patient care

  • A strong communicator and team player

New graduates and recently graduated veterinarians are encouraged to apply. More information about our hospital can be viewed here

Location

Rangiora Veterinary Centre is located just north of Christchurch in the beautiful South Island of New Zealand, with easy access to beaches, mountains, skiing, hiking, and outdoor adventure.

Position Details

  • Full-time fixed-term internship (18 months)

  • Predominantly hospital-based with ambulatory rotations

  • Participation in after-hours and emergency rosters with senior support

  • Start date December 2026 or by prior agreement

To apply, please submit:

  • Letter of intent

  • Curriculum vitae

  • References

Applications and enquiries can be directed to:

Rachael Smith BVSc(Dist) PGDipVCS DipACVS

Registered Specialist Equine Surgeon

📧 rachaels@rangvet.co.nz

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