Camille Bonini

Dr Camille Bonini is an English small companion animal veterinarian who’d spent approximately 18 months locuming around New Zealand before joining the CareVets Gisborne team for a short stint. Graduating in 2021, her New Zealand experience spans a handful of clinics in both the North and South Islands in her working holiday.

Arriving at CareVets Gisborne with no prior connection to the team, Camille stepped into a clinic that felt settled and well organised — something that isn’t guaranteed when you’re moving between unfamiliar practices.

“As a locum, things can be chaotic — but everything here felt really under control.”

From the outset, the nursing team set the pace. Work flowed smoothly, tasks were anticipated, and systems held — allowing Camille to focus on clinical decision-making rather than logistics.

“Anything that can be done by the nurses, they do — and they do it really well.”

Much of Camille’s time was spent in surgery. Despite full lists, the days ran to time without feeling rushed or stressful, supported by nurses who stayed a step ahead throughout.

“We had really full surgery lists, but everything finished on time. It was honestly a pleasure.”

The clinic’s equipment was practical and accessible, with imaging and surgical tools actively used rather than sitting idle.

“They’ve got everything you’d want — it just needs someone to be using it.”

Even on busy days, the atmosphere stayed calm. There was no snapping under pressure — just people quietly stepping in where needed.

“No one gets grumpy when it’s busy. Everyone just steps up.”

Strong leadership within the nursing team played a key role in that steadiness, keeping work coordinated and pressure absorbed.

“She just knows where to be and when — and that keeps everything running smoothly.”

Outside the clinic, Gisborne was easy to enjoy. Beaches were close, the neighbourhood felt welcoming, and small gestures captured the tone of the team.

“One of the nurses went out and bought ice cream for everyone.”

Asked what stood out most about the assignment, Camille didn’t hesitate.

“The people — and getting to do lots of surgery with no stress.”

As a locum with no long-term stake in the clinic, Dr Camille Bonini’s experience offers an independent perspective: this is a place where systems work, teams function well, and people genuinely enjoy coming to work.