Māori Outcomes Strategic Initiatives Intern

• A paid 12-week summer internship at the Living Wage rate of $29.90 per hour with hands-on experience, support and development.
• Work on real projects that matter, contributing to services and initiatives that help shape the future of Tāmaki Makaurau and improve outcomes for Aucklanders.
• Gain unique exposure to Te Ao Māori, mātauranga Māori, and mana whenua-led environmental initiatives while contributing to meaningful outcomes for Māori and Tāmaki Makaurau.

Spend your summer doing work that matters. Auckland Council’s Summer Internship Programme is from 23 November to 19 February and offers paid, hands-on experience at the Living Wage rate of $29.90 per hour. If you’re in your second-to-last year of study or continuing into a master’s programme, this is your chance to grow your skills, build your network and contribute to meaningful mahi for Tāmaki Makaurau.

He angitūtanga: The opportunity

The Māori Outcomes Strategic Initiatives team works across Auckland Council to support the delivery of meaningful and enduring outcomes for Māori. We provide strategic advice, foster partnerships, support organisational capability, and help embed Te Ao Māori perspectives into policies, programmes, and decision-making processes.

Our work contributes to the council's responsibilities under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and supports stronger outcomes for mana whenua, mataawaka, and communities across Tāmaki Makaurau.

Through this internship, you'll develop a practical understanding of:

• Te Tiriti o Waitangi in local government practice.
• Te Ao Māori approaches to environmental stewardship and decision-making.
• Mana whenua aspirations and leadership in Te Taiao.
• Māori Outcomes frameworks and their application across council activities.
• Collaborative approaches to biodiversity, freshwater, and environmental management.

What you’ll be doing during your internship

During your 12-week internship, you'll work alongside Māori specialists supporting Te Taiao (environmental) initiatives with Ngā Iwi Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau. This is a unique opportunity to gain practical experience at the intersection of environmental management, mātauranga Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and local government.

Your work may include:

• Supporting mātauranga ā-iwi-led taiao mauri monitoring, including projects relating to wai (water), taonga species, habitats, catchments, and ecosystems.
• Contributing to biosecurity and biodiversity initiatives, including riparian management, ecological restoration, and pest management programmes.
• Assisting with Auckland Council's efforts to give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through the delivery of identified Māori Outcomes.
• Supporting projects that strengthen partnerships and collaboration with Ngā Iwi Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau.
• Helping develop the capability of Auckland Council staff by supporting initiatives that build understanding of kaupapa Māori, tikanga Māori, and mātauranga Māori, enabling more effective engagement with Māori communities and partners.
• Undertaking research, analysis, reporting, and project support activities that contribute to positive environmental and Māori outcomes.
• Participating in meetings, workshops, site visits, and engagement opportunities with internal and external stakeholders.

He kōrero mōu: About you

We're looking for a curious, motivated, and collaborative student who is passionate about creating positive outcomes for Māori and communities across Tāmaki Makaurau. You do not need to be fluent in te reo Māori, but we would love to hear from candidates who are comfortable using basic kupu and phrases and are keen to continue learning.

This role is ideal for students with an interest in

• Māori development
• Environmental management
• Sustainability
• Planning
• Natural sciences
• Policy
• Resource management
• Related disciplines that are passionate about creating positive outcomes for Māori and the environment.

Eligibility

• Be in your second-to-last year of a relevant bachelor’s degree, or continuing into a master’s degree programme.
• Be eligible to work in New Zealand full-time from 23 November 2026 – 19 February 2027
• Restricted driver’s license preferred but not mandatory

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

You’ll gain hands-on experience, build practical skills and get a real insight into the mahi Auckland Council does for Tāmaki Makaurau. Throughout the 12-week internship, you’ll be supported by your team, connected with other interns and given opportunities to learn, grow your confidence and explore future career pathways in local government.

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 intern programme, please visit our careers page. 

Te Tukanga Tono: Application process

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

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: 11:59pm, Sunday 26th July 2026.

We will be reviewing and progressing applications as they are received. As applications may close earlier than the advertised closing date if a suitable candidate pool is identified, we encourage you to apply early.

Find a copy of the position description here: Healthy Waters and Flood Resilience Intern

The formal title for this role is Healthy Waters and Flood Resilience Intern.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

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.