Internships in New Zealand

Set Goals

Setting goals is essential to make the most of your time interning in New Zealand. Here are a few ways to help structure your experience:

• Skill development: Identify specific hard or soft skills to improve, such as communication or project management.
• Networking: Plan to meet professionals and peers for a mix of professional and social connections.
• Long-term goals: Think of a bigger career goal, such as working on a significant project, obtaining a certification, or finding a mentor.

Understand the Benefits

Interning in New Zealand offers distinct advantages that make it a rewarding experience:

• English-speaking environment: English is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate professional spaces while learning some Maori.
• Compact yet diverse: New Zealand’s small size means you can travel across the country in a short time.
• Compensation: Many internships offer stipends or pay, helping you support yourself during your time abroad.

Things to Know

Here are a few essentials to keep in mind while planning your internship:

• Accommodation: Housing is sometimes included; food is usually not.
• Climate: Mild weather year-round, with cooler temperatures on the South Island.
• Visa requirements: Check visa requirements and apply early; interns need a visa to enter.

New Zealand offers a variety of cities, each with unique internship opportunities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Auckland

As the largest city, Auckland offers golden beaches, nearby vineyards, and lively entertainment districts. Known for its cultural diversity, it’s a fantastic place to meet people from around the world while interning in fields like business or technology.

Christchurch

Known for its resilience following a devastating earthquake, Christchurch offers great internships in construction and civil engineering. This city, which embodies Kiwi spirit, is ideal for those looking to gain practical experience in trade and engineering fields.

Queenstown

Adventure-loving interns will thrive in Queenstown, with year-round opportunities in tourism and hospitality. Nestled between mountains and a lake, Queenstown offers thrilling outdoor sports and breathtaking views, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Internships in New Zealand provide hands-on experience across various fields, allowing you to build valuable skills.

Environmental Science

New Zealand’s diverse climates and unique ecosystems make it perfect for internships in environmental science. Field-based roles let interns study plant and animal populations, weather patterns, and conservation efforts.

Hospitality

With a thriving tourism industry, New Zealand is ideal for internships in hospitality. From coastal towns to bustling cities, you’ll gain experience in customer service, event management, and eco-tourism within a highly regarded hospitality sector.

Animal Science

New Zealand’s distinct endemic species provide exciting opportunities in animal science. Interns can work in conservation, rehabilitation, and animal welfare, gaining valuable skills and knowledge about the unique biodiversity of the region.

Follow these steps to prepare for an exciting internship experience in New Zealand.

1. Get Matched

Use the GoAbroad Online Advisor to discover internships in New Zealand that align with your interests and career goals.

2. Choose a Program

Create a MyGoAbroad account to save and compare programs that match your field and preferred location.

3. Decide When to Go

New Zealand’s Southern Hemisphere seasons differ from the Northern Hemisphere’s, so consider timing:

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Great for agriculture, construction, and outdoor fieldwork.
• Fall (Mar-May): Mild temperatures and ideal for outdoor sciences, business, and culinary internships.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Best for tourism, marketing, and indoor research roles, especially in the South Island.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Suitable for farming, nonprofits, and construction roles, as new projects and seasons begin.

4. Choose How Long to Stay

Consider your schedule and career goals when deciding on a duration:

• 1-3 months: Ideal for short-term, introductory experiences.
• 3-6 months: Provides a deeper, hands-on experience with time to develop skills.
• 1 year: Best for those seeking comprehensive experience and networking opportunities.

5. Funding & Scholarships

Complete our Scholarships & Deals application to connect with financial aid options for internships in New Zealand.

6. Apply

Once you’ve found your program, submit applications through MyGoAbroad. A program coordinator will reach out to provide further guidance.

7. Get Your Essentials

Prepare essential documents, including your visa, passport, flight, and travel insurance, well in advance to ensure a smooth arrival in New Zealand.

Interning in New Zealand is a chance to gain practical skills in a breathtaking environment. Embrace Kiwi culture, build connections, and create lasting memories in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.