Hi all,
I just wanted to say thank you to Kiwimedic for the great and comprehensive information on the system in NZ. As a new student paramedic in NZ, I found it quite clarifying! (as much as things can be clarified at this point...). My understanding is that St John will soon be adopting a BLS-ILS-ALS type system as opposed to the current PC1/2, AO, Paramedic, Upskilled Paramedic, AP system they currently use.
I have just finished the first year of my paramedic degree at AUT in Auckland and am about to transfer to Whitireia in Wellington for the completing two years. I am very curious to see how Welly Free compares to St J, particularly in terms of culture. I get the impression that Welly Free is a little more... progressive? Anyway, it will be interesting to compare the experience of both major ambulance employers in NZ.
Anyway, thanks again Kiwimedic, I actually found the overview quite helpful :-)
P.S. NZ is a great place to live and a pretty good place to be employed as a paramedic. Two good reasons to move here I reckon, let alone the adventure of experiencing a new country! :-)