More nursing students have come forward with concerning stories about their degrees and clinical placements.
Dozens of AUT nursing students have contacted Checkpoint, sharing harrowing experiences of their final year of study.
Some describe driving long distances to unpaid hospital placements, having to cover the cost of petrol, uniforms, and food.
Health Minister Andrew Little told Checkpoint he will consider payments for third year nursing students.
Some nursing lecturers say the number of students graduating their degrees and entering the stretched workforce won't improve without greater financial support.
Tom Taylor has the story.