Graduate Mixed Animal Veterinarian
Full-Time | Te Awamutu, Waikato
Talal at Lloyd & Cowan Recruitment is excited to be working with a forward-thinking veterinary practice in Te Awamutu that is genuinely committed to shaping the next generation of agri-vets.
This opportunity is ideal for a new or recent graduate who wants more than just a traditional first role. You’ll be supported, encouraged to ask questions, and given real responsibility in a practice that combines strong clinical foundations with technology, innovation, and proactive farm partnerships.
If you’re curious, motivated, and excited about the future of agri-veterinary work in New Zealand, this role offers an outstanding place to start your career.
Why This Role Is Different
This is a graduate role where development is taken seriously. You won’t be left to “figure it out” on your own — instead, you’ll be backed by a team that enjoys teaching, mentoring, and helping graduates build confidence at the right pace.
You’ll work closely with engaged farming clients who value veterinary input beyond emergencies, and you’ll be encouraged to think big-picture about herd health, farm performance, and animal wellbeing.
You’ll also benefit from:
A 1 Vet : 2 Tech model, meaning you’re supported on-farm by skilled technicians
Time and space for proactive consulting, not just reactive work
Exposure to agritech, data, and wearable technology
A balanced mixed-animal caseload, including structured small animal exposure
The Role
This is a full-time graduate mixed animal position, based in Te Awamutu, with a strong focus on dairy and livestock work.
You’ll be involved in:
Routine herd health, scanning, and reproductive programmes
Sick animal workups and treatment
Developing and implementing on-farm health plans
Small animal consults and surgery with structured support
Building trusted, long-term client relationships
Joining the after-hours roster progressively as your confidence grows
Exploring new ideas and innovations in agri-veterinary care
About You
This role is suited to a graduate who is enthusiastic, curious, and keen to learn.
You’ll ideally bring:
A veterinary degree recognised in New Zealand and a current APC
A genuine interest in rural New Zealand and livestock production
Curiosity, initiative, and a problem-solving mindset
A desire to learn within a supportive, high-performing team
An interest in both large and small animal practice (flexible and supported)
What’s On Offer
You’ll be supported with a comprehensive graduate-focused package, including:
A structured graduate development programme
Competitive graduate remuneration
Support with student loan repayment (up to NZD $6,000 over three years)
Eligibility for the Rural Veterinary Bonding Scheme (clinic dependent)
Ongoing CPD and self-education support
Employee assistance programme
Wellbeing and lifestyle initiatives
Employer KiwiSaver contributions
Staff discounts on veterinary services and products
Annual flu vaccination
An additional paid day off for your birthday
Long service leave
Enhanced parental leave provisions
Flexible working arrangements where possible
Why Te Awamutu?
Te Awamutu offers an excellent balance of rural lifestyle and accessibility. You’ll enjoy the benefits of working in a strong farming region while being just a short drive from Hamilton’s amenities. With a welcoming community, beautiful countryside, and plenty of outdoor opportunities, it’s an ideal place to start your veterinary career and put down roots.
If you’re a graduate veterinarian looking for a role where you’ll be supported, challenged, and genuinely invested in, I’d love to have a confidential conversation with you.
Ready to find out more?
Send your CV to sophie@lloydandcowan.com or call 07519119233 for a confidential chat.