EOI: Employ a graduate registered nurse in general practice for 2027

Are you considering providing a graduate nurse with a supported opportunity to experience primary care in general practice?

Pinnacle is now inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from general practices across the Pinnacle network that are interested in employing a Graduate Registered Nurse (RN) as part of their team in 2027.

Employment opportunities through the national ACE (Advanced Choice of Employment) process will open on 1 August 2026. This is for those nurses sitting state final exams in November 2026 who will be looking for employment in 2027.

Please respond to nursing@pinnacle.health.nz with your EOI by Sept 1st, 2026.

Why recruit through ACE?

ACE offers a streamlined and efficient recruitment pathway for graduate nurses.

1. Significant Time and Administrative Savings

• Centralised application process – ACE acts as a single national clearing house for graduate nursing applications.

• Pre-screened candidates – Reduce the time spent reviewing and shortlisting large numbers of applications.

• Standardised documentation – Qualifications, verified clinical placement histories, and references are provided through one portal in a consistent format.

2. Access to Graduates Interested in Primary Care

• Targeted applicant preferences – Graduates can identify Primary Health Care and General Practice as preferred career pathways.

• High-intent candidates – Focus your recruitment efforts on graduates who are genuinely interested in developing a career in community and general practice nursing.

Pinnacle Graduate RN Programme

The Pinnacle 12-month Graduate RN Programme partners with the regional Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora Supported First Year of Practice (SFYP) programmes, with planning currently underway for the February 2027 intake.

Graduate RNs receive support throughout their first year of practice, including:

• Primary care-focused professional development days

• Peer support group meetings

• Support for preceptors and practice teams

• Opportunities to develop confidence and capability within the primary health care setting

Funding Support Available

Funding is available through Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora to support practices employing graduate registered nurses in primary care and community settings.

For more information, visit:

https://www.healthnz.govt.nz/health-professionals/workforce-development/funding-for-employers-and-workforce-programmes/recruit-graduate-registered-nurses-primary-care-community-sectors-funding

Interested or Have Questions?

To discuss the opportunity or register your interest, please contact the Pinnacle Nurse Leads: nursing@pinnacle.health.nz