Graduate Programme 2027 - Executive Office Community Graduate

• A salary of $65,000, with strong development support and a pathway into a permanent role.
• Be part of work that directly impacts Aucklanders, giving you a meaningful role in shaping the city you live in.
• Step into a graduate role where your ideas are valued and your growth is supported.

Auckland Council is on the hunt for graduates! If you're in your final year or recently graduated and ready to kick-start your career where your work truly matters, our 2-year rotational Graduate Programme is your chance to get stuck in. 

Join the largest local government organisation in Oceania, serving over 1.7 million people, and gain hands-on experience and the opportunity to help shape the future of Tāmaki Makaurau as a world-class city.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

Join us at Auckland Council as part of the Executive Office team within the Community Directorate, the heart of our largest and most people‑focused division. This two‑year rotational graduate role offers a unique behind‑the‑scenes look at how local government operates, and how your work can make a real, positive difference for communities across Tāmaki Makaurau.

The Executive Office- Community is the engine room that supports over 3,600 kaimahi across five major departments: Community Wellbeing, Parks & Community Facilities, Licensing & Compliance, Pools & Leisure, and Environmental Services. We make sure these teams have the right tools, systems, advice and insights to deliver incredible outcomes for Aucklanders. As a graduate, you’ll play an active part in this mahi from day one.

Your Rotations

Across your rotations you’ll gain hands-on experience with three core teams:

Operations Support

Learn how we strengthen the capability of the directorate through learning and development, customer issue resolution, official information processes, and insights. You’ll help design or support training, improve systems and processes, and contribute to solutions that help our people deliver great service to our communities.

Work Programming

Work alongside experts guiding the development of our Local Board and Regional Work Programmes – the thousands of projects and activities that shape our city. You’ll gain exposure to project management, advisory work, stakeholder engagement, and the strategic decisions that help elected members prioritise investment across Auckland.

Advisory

Develop the skills to support high-quality advice for elected members. You’ll learn how council advice is written, reviewed and delivered; how political decision-making works; and how to support subject matter experts to produce clear, thoughtful and impactful advice that enables great outcomes

Start date of programme, Monday 15th February 2027

He kōrero mōu: About you

We’re looking for the right person, not just the right qualification. You’re curious, adaptable and eager to learn. Someone who brings a positive, “get‑stuck‑in” attitude and enjoys working with others to solve problems.

You communicate well, build relationships easily and feel comfortable working in fast‑paced or ambiguous situations. You’re organised, proactive, and not afraid to ask questions or try something new. You value collaboration, continuous improvement and delivering great experiences for the people we serve.

Most importantly, you’re motivated by purpose and excited about contributing to better outcomes for communities across Tāmaki Makaurau.

We welcome applications from the following disciplines

• Public Policy / Political Science
• Communications
• English or related Humanities
• Other relevant degrees

You must have:

• A minimum of a relevant Bachelor’s degree 
• Eligibility to work in Aotearoa New Zealand for more than 4 years without sponsorship

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

You’ll gain a broad understanding of council operations and receive the support you need to step into a permanent role at the end of the programme. We offer flexibility, wellbeing support, tailored learning opportunities, and a development pathway designed to accelerate your career. You’ll also be part of a supportive graduate cohort throughout your journey.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. 

How we’ll support you as a candidate

We aim to provide an experience where you feel comfortable, supported, and able to be yourself.

• We value whakapapa, reo, and tikanga as strengths - bring your whole self to mahi.
• If you prefer a virtual interview or would like whānau support included, just let us know during the recruitment process.
• We’ll work with you on any access needs so you can show your best self.

For more information about the graduate programme, please visit our careers page.  

Te Tukanga Tono: Application process

• Online application – CV + a few quick questions
• One-way video interview
• Formal interview with a 2-person panel – in person or virtual
• Pre-employment checks
• Offer – Nau mai ki te whānau!

We will be reviewing and progressing applications as they are received, so get your application in now!  

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of. Nau mai, uru mai, your journey starts here.

Me Tono Ināianei!: Apply Now!

Applications close: Sunday, 29 March 2026

Find a copy of the position description here: Graduate Executive Office Community PD

This role has a remuneration of $65,000

Our employer KiwiSaver contribution is additional to the base salary offered. 

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer. We serve the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, educational background, or religious beliefs. We also welcome applications from our Rainbow communities as well as disabled and neurodivergent people. We are committed to making our hiring process accessible to everyone. If you require any support or adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.