Starting a Nutrition Practice in New Zealand: Complete Guide

New Zealand offers excellent opportunities for nutrition professionals looking to start their own practice. With growing awareness of diet-related health issues—including our high rates of obesity and diabetes—demand for qualified nutrition services continues to increase across Aotearoa.

Whether you're a New Zealand Registered Dietitian (NZRD), an NSNZ Registered Nutritionist, or building a nutrition coaching business, this guide covers everything you need to know about starting a nutrition practice in New Zealand.

Understanding NZ Nutrition Credentials

New Zealand has two main professional pathways for nutrition professionals:

NZ Registered Dietitians (NZRD)

Dietitians in New Zealand are regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance (HPCA) Act 2003. To use the title "Dietitian," you must be registered with the Dietitians Board. Key points:

Protected title under NZ law

Requires approved qualification (typically Bachelor's degree in dietetics)

Annual Practising Certificate required

Continuing competence requirements

Can work in clinical, community, and private practice settings

NSNZ Registered Nutritionists

The Nutrition Society of New Zealand (NSNZ) provides voluntary registration for nutritionists who meet their qualification and experience criteria. While not legally protected, NSNZ registration demonstrates professional credibility:

Voluntary registration (not legally required to practice)

Requires relevant nutrition qualification

Demonstrates commitment to professional standards

Access to NSNZ member benefits and professional network

10% discount on Foodzilla subscriptions

 

Step 1: Get Your Credentials in Order

For Dietitians:

Ensure your registration with the Dietitians Board is current

Obtain your Annual Practising Certificate

Consider joining Dietitians NZ for professional support and advocacy

For Nutritionists:

Apply for NSNZ registration if you meet the criteria

Maintain your professional development records

Consider additional certifications relevant to your niche

 

Step 2: Register Your Business

Setting up your business properly from the start saves headaches later. Here's what you need:

Business Structure

Most NZ nutrition professionals start as either:

Sole trader: Simplest option. You operate under your own name, income is taxed personally. Easy to set up and manage.

Company (Ltd): Separate legal entity with limited liability. More complex but offers asset protection and potential tax benefits as you grow.

Essential Registrations

IRD number: If you don't already have one for your business activities.

GST registration: Required once turnover exceeds $60,000. Optional below this threshold but can be beneficial.

Business name: Register through the Companies Office if using a name other than your own.

Get advice from an accountant before choosing your structure—the right choice depends on your situation and growth plans.

 

Step 3: Arrange Insurance

Professional insurance protects you and your clients. You'll need:

Professional Indemnity Insurance

Covers claims arising from your professional advice. This is essential for any nutrition professional giving dietary guidance. Several NZ insurers offer policies for allied health professionals.

Public Liability Insurance

Covers claims from accidents or injuries on your premises or during your work. Important if you see clients in person.

 

Step 4: Choose Your Practice Model

New Zealand nutrition professionals run successful practices in several formats:

Telehealth/Virtual Practice

Run your practice entirely online. Perfect for reaching clients across NZ's spread-out population, from Auckland to Invercargill. Lower overheads and flexible scheduling.

In-Person Clinic

Traditional consulting rooms. Options include your own space, subletting from a GP or allied health clinic, or using serviced offices. Consider locations accessible to your target clients.

Hybrid Model

Combine in-person and virtual consultations. Many clients prefer meeting in person initially with follow-ups via video call.

Corporate & Workplace

Provide nutrition services to businesses—workplace wellness programs, lunch-and-learns, and employee health initiatives. Growing demand from NZ employers focused on staff wellbeing.

 

Step 5: Set Your Pricing

Pricing varies across New Zealand. Consider:

Market rates: Dietitians and nutritionists in NZ typically charge $100-$180+ for initial consultations, $70-$130+ for follow-ups. Rates vary by location and specialisation.

Your costs: Factor in room rent (if applicable), insurance, software, professional development, and your time.

Package pricing: Offering packages (e.g., initial consultation plus 3 follow-ups plus meal plans) can improve client commitment and your cash flow.

Private health insurance: Some NZ health insurers cover dietitian consultations. Check if you can register as a provider with Southern Cross and other insurers.

 

Step 6: Set Up Your Technology

The right software makes your practice professional and efficient:

Meal Planning Software

Foodzilla is built in New Zealand and includes the NZ Food Composition Database. As an official NSNZ partner, we offer 10% off for NSNZ members. Create professional meal plans quickly, communicate with clients through a branded app, and manage your practice efficiently.

Practice Management

For scheduling, client records, and invoicing. Options include Cliniko (popular with allied health), Timely (NZ-based), or simpler solutions like Calendly plus Xero.

Video Conferencing

Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet for telehealth consultations. Ensure your setup looks professional—good lighting, quiet background, stable internet.

Accounting

Xero is the NZ standard for small business accounting. Makes GST returns, expense tracking, and working with your accountant straightforward.

 

Step 7: Build Your Client Base

Getting your first clients requires hustle. Proven strategies for NZ nutrition professionals:

Referral Networks

Connect with local GPs, practice nurses, and medical centres

Build relationships with personal trainers and gyms

Network with other health professionals—physios, psychologists, naturopaths

Online Presence

Create a professional website with clear information about your services

Set up Google Business Profile for local search visibility

Be active on social media where your target clients spend time

Directories & Listings

NSNZ "Find a Nutritionist" directory (for members)

Dietitians NZ directory (for dietitians)

Health Navigator NZ and other healthcare directories

Southern Cross and other health insurer provider directories

 

Step 8: Deliver Excellent Service

Your reputation is everything. Focus on:

Professional materials: Use Foodzilla to deliver polished meal plans with NZ foods your clients recognise.

Client communication: Respond promptly, be approachable, and make clients feel supported.

Follow-through: Check in between sessions. A client app makes ongoing support seamless.

Measurable outcomes: Track progress so clients see their results.

 

NZ-Specific Considerations

ACC

Dietitians can provide ACC-funded services for injury-related nutrition needs. Check ACC's allied health guidelines for eligibility and claiming processes.

DHB/Te Whatu Ora Contracts

Some regions offer contracts for community nutrition services. These can provide steady income alongside private clients.

Cultural Competence

Working effectively with Maori and Pacific communities requires cultural understanding. Consider training in Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and culturally appropriate practice.

 

Ready to Start Your NZ Nutrition Practice?

Starting a nutrition practice in New Zealand is achievable with the right preparation. Get your credentials sorted, set up your business properly, invest in professional tools, and focus on delivering excellent client care.

Foodzilla is built in New Zealand for New Zealand nutrition professionals. With the NZ Food Composition Database, NSNZ partnership benefits, and local support, we help you run an efficient, professional practice. Start your free trial today.