Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Pharmacist | Palmerston North
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The pharmacist is responsible for dispensing prescriptions safely and accurately, providing professional advice, supporting customers with medicines and health products, and maintaining high standards of pharmacy care. Requirements typically include current registration as a pharmacist in New Zealand, a recognised pharmacy qualification, and eligibility to work in New Zealand. Previous community or retail pharmacy experience is desirable. The successful candidate should communicate clearly, work well with customers and colleagues, follow legal and company procedures, and demonstrate sound clinical judgment. A practical, service-focused attitude, attention to detail, and commitment to patient safety are essential.
Can I work in New Zealand?
Never pay anyone for a visa or a job offer. A real employer pays the permit costs and never asks you for money.
How it works
How it works: Shop-floor jobs are mostly skill level 5, as for hotel line jobs: an accredited employer, a 21-day advert, a Work and Income check, an English test and a 3-year cap.
Before you apply: Shop-floor jobs need no professional licence. Pharmacists do: they must register with the local regulator, and one qualified abroad often has to pass local exams first. Selling alcohol can need a short course and certificate, for example in Australia.
Watch for: Retail managers are on the residence 'red list' since 24 August 2026: they cannot use the two new residence pathways.
Official source: Immigration New Zealand: engaging with Work and Income before your Job Check. Checked November 2026.
What the job usually comes with in New Zealand
Usual for Retail & Consumer jobs in New Zealand, varies by employer. Checked November 2026.
| Housing | Varies; not usually provided |
|---|---|
| Relocation | Employer must pay recruitment costs; you may pay the NZD 1,540 visa fee, any adviser and airfare |
| Flights | Varies by employer and seniority |
| Pay and discount | Minimum wage NZD 23.95 an hour from 1 April 2026 (by law) |
| Contract | Work visas for most shop-floor jobs last 3 years at most (skill levels 4 and 5) |
| Leave | 4 weeks after a year and 12 public holidays (by law); 10 days' sick leave after 6 months (by law) |
| Income tax | 10.5% to NZD 15,600, 17.5% to 53,500, 30% to 78,100, 33% to 180,000, then 39%; plus a 1.75% accident levy |
Senior staff often get more than line staff, for example a single room or a yearly home flight. Ask the employer what the job includes before you accept.
Guidance, not legal advice. Rules change; your employer confirms the details for your case.
About Woolworths Supermarkets
Woolworths Group is a major retail company operating across Australia and New Zealand. Its businesses include supermarkets, online grocery services, loyalty programs, and a range of supporting retail operations. In New Zealand, its supermarkets operate under the Woolworths brand, following the transition from the Countdown name. The company serves millions of customers through stores and digital channels, offering groceries, fresh food, household products, health services, and pharmacy-related offerings in selected locations. Woolworths places emphasis on customer service, food quality, team development, convenience, and responsible business practices. Employees generally work in busy, customer-facing environments where collaboration, safety, accuracy, and efficient service are important. A pharmacist joining the business would contribute specialist healthcare knowledge while working within a supermarket and community pharmacy setting.