How to Intern Abroad in New Zealand New Zealand is full of postcard pictures to take. Anyone who loves the great outdoors will love it here. Adrenaline junkies are happy with the variety of adventure sports available to get their hearts racing, while peaceful nature seekers are constantly in awe of the scenic environment that islands have to offer. With moderate temperatures year-round, it is always the right time to travel to New Zealand!
What Is It Like To Intern In New Zealand?
Limited, but Rewarding Opportunities. New Zealand is a small country, which has pros and cons. On the down side, it cannot offer as many available intern positions as one would find in more populous countries. On the up side, internships in New Zealand are generally with companies that really want interns, which tends to provide more real-world experience than one can find in some other locations. Certain industries are easier to place, such as environmental science or hospitality. Veterinary science, visual and performing arts, journalism, public relations, and social work are also very popular internship fields.
Interest in Working with International Interns. Kiwis are very welcoming and accepting of foreign visitors, and companies in New Zealand appreciate international interns. Just as many employers prefer job candidates who have international work experience, Kiwi companies value interns from abroad.
Typical Work Week. A typical work week in New Zealand is full-time, with a 9-5 schedule daily, and interns should expect to work roughly that many hours a week. There’s always time after the work day to enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
Travel on the Weekends. As New Zealand is so small, it’s no problem to see much of the country during the course of an internship. Interns in New Zealand can expect to partake on day trips easily, with many opportunities for budget student travel. More adventurous travelers can visit other nearby countries including Australia or Fiji.
Safety and Security. New Zealand is generally a very safe country for foreign visitors, due to its relatively low crime rate, according to the U.S. Department of State.
About New Zealand: Traveling, Interning, and Living
Simple Visa. United States citizens apply for a visitor’s permit upon arrival in New Zealand. The permit allows visitors to stay for up to three months. In order to get a visitor’s permit, interns must show proof that they plan to leave New Zealand (a departure ticket works), evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves throughout their stay, and, of course, a valid passport. The process is relatively quick and easy. Many interns apply for a work and holiday visa so they can find jobs in New Zealand after their internships end. It’s common for visitors to become so taken with the country that they don’t want to leave!
Favorable Currency. The New Zealand dollar is favorable to U.S. currency. Restaurants can get pricey, but there are many affordable options such as buying foods at a grocer or market. To make sure you’re spending your money wisely, make friends with locals and ask them where they spend their money — and what tourist traps you should avoid.
Delicious Cuisine. Kiwi cuisine has been influenced by British and Mediterranean diets. New Zealanders fancy local foods based on seasonal varieties. One New Zealand favorite is a meat pie: tasty little pastry puffs filled with gravy, vegetables and meat, eaten as a meal or snack.
Preserved Land. New Zealand has worked to keep its agricultural industries free of plant and animal diseases and insect pests. The country’s environment is unique and preserved, in this way. Visitors cannot bring fruit, vegetables, plants, equipment used with animals, or camping gear into New Zealand. These items are strictly restricted.
Geography. The landscapes of New Zealand change dramatically from one side of the islands to the other, giving the country a really striking and varied geography. Your camera will be flooded with amazing views of mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and livestock, depending on where you are. The South Island has more than 15 peaks that stand taller than 9,000 feet! Many adventurers enjoy glacier hiking or skydiving over the peaks. There’s a plethora of plants and animals inhabiting the islands, with many native to New Zealand.
English Language with a Twist. English is the language spoken here, but you may have trouble understanding the Kiwi accent every now and then. Most place names are in the indigenous Maori language, which also causes a bit of confusion over pronunciation for newcomers. The Maori language does have a logical structure and consistent pronunciation rules, so it shouldn’t be that hard to follow!
In-Country Travel. One can visit the entire country in a week! New Zealand’s compact size makes it very easy to travel. Scenic drives throughout the country provide some amazing sightseeing. There are many student-discounted bus trips that let student travelers explore both islands on a budget.
Interning in New Zealand is rewarding, unique, and unforgettable … so much that you may find yourself searching for reasons to stay beyond your internship. Ka kite ano!