The Voluntary Bonding Scheme (VBS) is a practical initiative run by the Te Whatu Ora – to encourage newly qualified health professionals to work in the communities and specialties that need them most, and to retain essential health professionals throughout New Zealand. Those on the scheme receive annual payments to help repay their student loan or as top-up income. For information on the scheme please read the documents in the 'Download' section to the right of the screen.