Planning Intern

•    Auckland Council’s Internship Programme offers a living wage of $ $29.90/hour
•    3-month programme running from 23 November 2026 to 19 February 2027
•    Your stepping stone into the world of Planning.

He angitutanga mutunga kore mō te ihumanea pēnā i a koe: Endless possibilities for an intern like you at Auckland Council

He angitūtanga: The opportunity
Are you eager to contribute to the development of one of the world’s most vibrant cities? Auckland Council is seeking motivated Planning Interns to join us to help shape the future of Auckland. These internships provide a great opportunity to gain practical experience in urban planning and make a real impact on our community.

We have opportunities available in 3 distinctive focus areas:

Resource Consents - In this role you will experience the real-world application of the Unitary Plan and observe the Resource Management Act in play. You will be part of a fast-paced environment and assist our customers by supporting accurate and professional consenting advice.

Policy Planning – This role will give you a chance to see policy planning in action. You will be part of a team that provides professional advice and expertise in policy development and analysis, area spatial planning and place-making, and statutory planning, to achieve quality outcomes.

Heritage – Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland has a rich historic heritage. In this role you will learn about our heritage and how it is protected through the Auckland Unitary Plan. You will be part of an experienced and interesting team, including policy planners, that provides expert advice in heritage identification, management, and education. 

Healthy Waters & Flood Resilience - Resource Management - Gain practical experience in resource management while supporting Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters & Flood Resilience team. Working alongside experienced planners and engineers, you will apply the Resource Management Act and Auckland Unitary Plan to real projects that help deliver sustainable infrastructure, flood resilience, and healthy waterways across Auckland.

You will be assessed for these focus areas. If successful, you will be appointed to Resource Consents, Policy Planning or Heritage based on your alignment with the requirements of each department.

He kōrero mōu: About you
A minimum of a New Zealand Restricted driver’s license is desirable. You should possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, and demonstrate the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

To apply you must:
•    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

We welcome applications from students studying
•    Urban Planning
•    Environmental Planning
•    Archaeology

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 Internship 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!

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!
Your application should accurately reflect your own work, writing, and skills, even where AI tools have been used for support.

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.

To access the position description please click here: Planning Position Description 

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.