How internships work, He pēhea ngā tauiratanga e mahi ana

An internship is short-term, paid or unpaid work experience where you can learn about a job.  Internships are open to people at different stages of their careers.

They offer an opportunity to:

• gain skills
• explore a career
• build confidence
• network and make contacts.

Check your rights around paid and unpaid internships.

Volunteers, internships and studentships – Employment NZ

You can sometimes apply for an internship programme as part of your studies to gain credits. This can be called Work-integrated learning (WIL) or Professional and Community Engagement (PACE). Check with your education provider to see what’s available.

If you’re a career changer or returning to work you may want to build relevant skills through study, short courses or volunteering. You could then apply for internships or contact businesses to arrange one for yourself.

Government internships

The New Zealand Government has internship programmes available in the public service. Some are aimed at students or recent graduates, while others are open to everyone.

Graduate programmes and internships – Public Services Commission

You could also check your local or regional council’s website to see what internships they offer.

Grads, interns and cadets – Auckland Council

Internship and career programmes – Wellington City Council

Intern at the Christchurch City Council

Private internship programmes

You may be able to search for an internship yourself or register with a specific organisation to be matched with one. These companies offer services to help you find an internship in Aotearoa New Zealand and may charge fees.

Prosple

Intern NZ

New Zealand Internships

Summer of Tech

TupuToa internship programme

Community and not-for-profit internships

Community and not-for-profit organisations are often small and may not advertise internships. They might still offer project-based short-term internships that may be paid, unpaid or volunteer based.

You may find an internship with one of these organisations by:

• searching online job listings
• asking tertiary career services
• contacting an organisation directly.

When you apply for internships treat the application process like you’re applying for a job.

You should:

• develop a strong CV and cover letter
• create or update a LinkedIn profile
• prepare for an interview
• research the organisations you’re interested in.

It’s a good idea to start looking for an internship 6 to 9 months before you want to do it as some are only open to applications at certain times of the year.

Internships offer a pathway to employment, and you may get contract, part-time or full-time work at the end of the internship.

Your internship could mean you continue to work in the organisation or create a pathway into other job opportunities.

During your internship you could:

• set learning goals early – know what skills or experience you want to gain
• show initiative – ask questions and offer help when appropriate
• be reliable and professional – turn up on time and follow workplace expectations
• ask for feedback – use feedback to improve and grow your confidence
• build relationships – get to know people and learn about their roles
• keep notes on what you do – track skills, tasks and achievements for your CV
• learn from every task – even small jobs can help you understand how work gets done.

After your internship you could:

• keep a record of what you did, skills you learned and your accomplishments to use for future job applications and interviews
• ask for a reference letter
• ask about future opportunities
• ask your manager or a colleague if they could be your referee
• create a LinkedIn profile if you haven’t got one and ask your colleagues if you can connect with them
• send an email to say thank you – this may help you to stay connected with the organisation.