Note: From 1 July 2026, fees will apply to some vaccinator training courses, as temporary funding that enabled full fee subsidies from Health New Zealand has ended. Course fees are shown when the course is selected, or you can click here for a table of new course fees, effective from 1 July, and more information. Please note that foundation‑level courses will remain free to support employers and new vaccinators entering the workforce.‍

Course Completion Requirement: This course must be completed within 3 months of enrolment date.

Vaccinator update (2026) course

This 4-hour course is for health professionals who deliver vaccines renewing their vaccinator status. It provides up-to-date information on immunisation theory, practice and policy to help you maintain competencies to vaccinate safely within your scope of practice.

Content in this course covers vaccination across the lifespan. Note: Completing this course does not change the age range you are currently authorised to vaccinate.

Vaccinator education must be updated 2 yearly in line with the requirements in Appendix 4 of the Immunisation Handbook. It is your responsibility to complete the 2-yearly update prior to your expiry date.

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Registration requirements  

You must:

• be a vaccinator with a current annual practicing certificate

• have completed a Vaccinator Foundation Course

• currently involved in immunisation service delivery

• have knowledge and familiarity with the current Immunisation Handbook.

Eligible roles include registered nurses, enrolled nurses, pharmacists, paramedics and other regulated healthcare professionals.

Course content:

• Vaccine programmes

• Vaccine safety

• Improving immunisation coverage

• Communication

• Cultural engagement

• Vaccine storage, preparation and administration

Assessment

The assessment is a set of 20 multiple choice questions with 40 minutes to complete.

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