Intern

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Date: 28 Oct 2026

Location: Wellington, NZ

Company: Ministry of Social Development

All-of-Government Whaikaha Internship Programme

Join an internship that supports inclusion, accessibility and opportunities for disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori and Deaf people.

The All-of-Government Whaikaha Internship Programme provides Deaf and disabled tertiary students and graduates with the opportunity to gain meaningful paid work experience across the New Zealand Public Service.

The programme aims to reduce barriers to employment, create pathways into professional careers and support government agencies to build more accessible and inclusive workplaces.

Our 2027 programme includes 10 internship opportunities across 7 government agencies. Visit our website to learn more about each opportunity and the type of work involved: Work with us | Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People

Should you be successful, we will consider your skills, experience and interests when matching you to an available internship opportunity.

Mō te tūnga | About the role:

As an intern, you will gain confidence, knowledge and experience working in a professional environment within a public sector organisation.

Our programme provides regular opportunities to connect with other interns in the cohort through shared learning, kaupapa Māori experiences, development and networking activities. You will also have an assigned mentor and buddy to support you during your internship.

Whaikaha is committed to supporting host agencies to meet the accessibility needs of interns and provide an inclusive experience.

Internships begin on 1 February 2027 and are full-time and fixed term for approximately 12 weeks. Flexible or part-time arrangements can be explored.

Mōu | About you:

We are seeking Interns who are keen to bring lived experience, disability perspectives and a passion for equity to their work.

Ideally, you will be:

In your final year of tertiary studies or have recently completed your tertiary studies within the last three years.
Eligible to live, study, and work in New Zealand.
Able to manage tasks and meet deadlines with support or strategies that work best for you.
Open to collaboration and building positive relationships.
Curious, self-aware, and open to feedback.
Familiar with Microsoft Office products such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook.

He Whakaahuatanga Tūnga | Position Description:

The job description, salary, application process and alternate formats of this advertisement can be found here: Work with us | Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People

Ka kati ngā tono hei te | Applications close: Sunday, 8 November 2026.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:

In your application, we are keen to know about:

Your motivations – why are you interested in this internship? What do you hope to get out of it?

What are you passionate about - areas of skill, experience, or interest? What are you keen to work on? We want to be able to align your preferences with the roles available as much as possible.

Click the 'Apply' button to complete the online form, or let’s kōrero about what you need to feel supported in your application. For example, you may prefer to use video instead of a traditional CV and cover letter, or you might want whānau or a friend to tell us about you.

Apply now »