What is the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand (OTBNZ)?
The Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand (OTBNZ) is a health regulatory authority. We ensure the safety of consumers using occupational therapy services. We do this by making sure all occupational therapists meet the specifications of the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003.
Latest News
Consultation for the Recertification Programme
We consulted with the profession and key stakeholders about the proposal to introduce a Recertification Programme for (i) New Graduates, (ii) those Returning to Practice, (iii) Overseas practitioners including Trans-Tasman applications and (iv) Restoration to the Register. We received submissions from 5 practitioners and the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia. We have decided to establish the Recertification Programme. However, this would not apply to practitioners applying for registration under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Agreement. The programme will be gazetted to become operational by 1 May 2020. More information will be available on our website shortly.
Submissions to English Language Policy consultation
We consulted with the profession and stakeholders about changes to the English Language Policy for applicants wishing to register in New Zealand as occupational therapists. We received 17 responses and after careful consideration of the responses, we have made changes to the policy. Please click here for the updated policy, and here for the summary of the subsequent changes, and the submissions.
Symposiums/Hui 2020
Following the success of 2019 hui/ symposiums, the Board will be holding four symposiums/hui again next year – all in May. The symposiums/hui will return to the main centres of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin, and will take place on consecutive Wednesdays of May 6, May 13, May 20 & May 27. The details and the theme of the hui will be available in the new year.
2020 Webinar Series: Second Tuesday every month at 2.30 PM
- How to apply for your Annual Practising Certificate – Powerpoint – View Recording
- 10 March: Moving to the new ePortfolio cycle – Register here
- 14 April: Notifying the board about complaints, health & competence – Register here
- 12 May: Developing Professional Competencies with an Emphasis on Cultural Competency – Register here
Te Rito Bicultural Competency Elearning Module
This course is available to anyone who has a current practising certificate. Contact Terito@otboard.org.nz for your login details.
Submission to Health Select Committee
Health Practitioner Disciplinary Tribunal (HPDT) decisions for occupational therapists can be seen here
