Frequently Asked Questions


We have assembled a number of most frequently asked questions here. Our membership forms, on the Membership page, also contain information that you may find helpful.
If you have a question that we have not been able to answer please contact us via the Contact page.

1What is the difference between a Registered Clinical Nutritionist (RCNs), a Registered Nutritionist, a Dietician and someone who says they are a nutritionist?
It can be confusing that there a range of nutrition and diet related professionals in New Zealand, so we have prepared an explanation of the key differences to help clarify.

If you wish to find out more about clinical nutrition and what to expect when you visit an RCN, click here.
2How do I join the CNA?
Visit our Membership page to find out more about practitioner and student membership options.

Detailed information about criteria for acceptance, membership benefits and online membership application forms can be found on the Practitioner Membership and the Student Membership pages.

Please ensure you read the criteria carefully to ensure your qualification meets our requirements, and have the required documentation ready to include with your application.
3I have a nutrition degree, can I join as a practitioner member?

Please visit New Practitioner Membership to review the criteria for registration with CNA.


If your nutrition degree does not meet the required clinical training and experience for CNA registration, a clinical nutritionist bridging course is available through the Holistic Performance Institute.
4Do you accept international qualifications for Practitioner Membership?

Practitioner Member applicants with international qualifications are reviewed by the CNA Committee on a case-by-case basis.

Visit our Practitioner Membership page to find out more about our criteria for acceptance.

5How much does it cost to join?
Annual membership fees are:

Practitioner $125 (+ $40 admin fee for new members)

Student $35
6How do I renew my membership?
Please visit Membership Renewals for full details about the renewals process.

If your membership has expired, please Contact Us.

7What are the requirements for continued education?
To renew your Practitioner Membership you are required to include evidence of 15 points of Continuing Professional Education (CPE), accrued over the previous 12 months. If it has been more than one year since you were last registered with the CNA please Contact Us to discuss your renewal options.

All CNA events count towards continued education. Attendance certificates are provided at each event, and should be retained for inclusion with your online annual membership renewal.

Please visit Membership Renewals for full details on how to gain CPE points

8Do you provide indemnity insurance?
We do not offer indemnity insurance for our members.
9Does the CNA support online consultations?
The Clinical Nutrition Association fully supports and encourages online consultations, whether it is an initial appointment or follow up appointment. We prefer members use a secure platform such as Zoom and undertake consultations in the same manner they would a face to face meeting.

Please visit our Directory to find Clinical Nutritionists that provide online consultations.