NZIDT was incorporated on 21 September 1977 following a merger of the NZ Dental Technicians Society and the NZ Dental Laboratories Association. The institute represents the interests of Clinical and non-Clinical Dental Technicians and (through association) it also represents non registered Dental Technicians and students.
The NZIDT exists to facilitate the professional development of Dental Technicians and Clinical Dental Technicians in the interests of its members. The NZIDT carries out multiple roles, but its main objective is to further the interests of the industry. It is not a governing body. It is advised by its members and through the executive it services the best interests of the industry.
The Institute has a President (elected annually for a term of no longer than two consecutive years) and a National Executive Committee consisting of between 8 and 10 members. Semi autonomous branch committees organise regular meetings in New Zealand's main centres.