Summer Intern - Various locations

About Meridian Energy

Meridian Energy is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest renewable electricity generator, producing power from wind, water, and sun. The company is focused on helping create a fairer, healthier future while supporting communities to lower emissions and keep the country supplied with electricity. Alongside generation, Meridian also sells electricity to more than 365,000 homes, businesses, and farms through its Meridian and Powershop brands.

What this internship involves

As a summer intern, you’ll have the chance to contribute to some of New Zealand’s most well-known hydro and wind generation assets while also getting exposure to broader parts of the business. The programme is designed to build practical technical and business capability through real work rather than observation alone.

Only a limited number of interns are selected each year, and the company is looking for high-calibre candidates. In return, you’ll receive strong hands-on learning, ownership of meaningful projects, and support from experienced team members who will help strengthen your knowledge, professional skills, and career profile.

Role exposure and learning

You’ll gain direct experience at key generation sites, work alongside experienced engineers, and help solve real challenges across different hydro and wind systems. This is a 400-professional-hour placement that goes beyond university credit, offering practical learning across engineering as well as other Generation and Development teams. You’ll also see how New Zealand’s energy systems operate from the inside and what it takes to help keep the country powered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is intended for students from a range of disciplines who are currently in their third, penultimate year of a relevant degree and who have a genuine interest in the electricity sector. The role may be based in Christchurch, Twizel, or Wellington depending on business needs, so applicants should be open to relocating if required.

Some roles may also require a full, clean driver’s licence, especially where regular travel to generation sites is part of the work.

Work culture

Meridian describes its culture as hardworking but fun, guided by three values: be gutsy, be a good human, and be in the waka. The company emphasizes collaboration, strong relationships, and doing the right thing.

Additional information

Meridian says it is a flexible, diverse, and inclusive workplace where people are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. Applications are welcomed from people of all backgrounds and experiences, including people with disabilities, diverse health needs, and neurodiverse individuals, as the company believes difference strengthens the team.

The internship is also presented as a potential pathway into graduate roles, helping the company understand your work ethic while giving you insight into what makes Meridian a strong place to build a career.

To apply, candidates should submit a CV and academic transcript and explain why they would like to be considered. A cover letter may also be included.

Interview availability is required during the week of 24 August 2026, although timing may change and applicants will be informed in advance if it does.

The internship runs from November 2026 to February 2027, with a short break over Christmas and New Year.

Applications close on 9 August 2026, subject to change.

If you need assistance with the application process, support is available. Questions can be directed to the careers team by email.