Māori Outcomes Strategic Initiatives Intern

About the Internship

This is a paid 12-week summer internship with Auckland Council, compensated at the Living Wage rate of $29.90 per hour. The internship offers hands-on experience where you will contribute to impactful projects that influence the future of Tāmaki Makaurau and enhance outcomes for its communities. You will gain valuable exposure to Te Ao Māori, mātauranga Māori, and initiatives led by mana whenua focused on environmental stewardship, directly contributing to meaningful Māori and regional outcomes.

Opportunity Overview

The Māori Outcomes Strategic Initiatives team collaborates across Auckland Council to drive enduring outcomes for Māori. Their work includes providing strategic guidance, fostering partnerships, building organisational capability, and integrating Te Ao Māori viewpoints into policy, programming, and council decision-making. This role supports the council's responsibilities under Te Tiriti o Waitangi while promoting positive impacts for mana whenua, mataawaka, and communities throughout Tāmaki Makaurau.

Learning and Development

• Understanding the application of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in local government contexts.
• Exploring Te Ao Māori methodologies for environmental guardianship and governance.
• Engaging with mana whenua leadership and aspirations related to Te Taiao (the environment).
• Applying Māori Outcomes frameworks within council activities.
• Participating in collaborative efforts for biodiversity, freshwater, and environmental management initiatives.

Internship Activities

Over the 12 weeks, you will work alongside Māori specialists on environmental projects connected with Ngā Iwi Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau. Responsibilities include:

• Assisting with mātauranga ā-iwi-led monitoring of taiao mauri, including water, taonga species, habitat, catchments, and ecosystems projects.
• Supporting biosecurity and biodiversity programs such as riparian restoration, ecological renewal, and pest control.
• Contributing to the council’s efforts to fulfill Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations through Māori Outcomes.
• Building and strengthening partnerships with Ngā Iwi Mana Whenua o Tāmaki Makaurau.
• Enhancing Auckland Council staff capabilities via initiatives that deepen understanding of kaupapa Māori, tikanga Māori, and mātauranga Māori for improved engagement with Māori communities.
• Conducting research, performing analysis and reporting, and providing project assistance that advance positive environmental and Māori outcomes.
• Engaging in meetings, workshops, site visits, and collaborative activities with both internal and external stakeholders.

Candidate Profile

We seek a curious, enthusiastic, and team-oriented student passionate about fostering positive impacts for Māori and the wider Tāmaki Makaurau community. Fluency in te reo Māori is not mandatory; however, a willingness to use simple terms and continue learning is highly valued. Ideal candidates may have academic interests in Māori development, environmental management, sustainability, planning, natural sciences, policy, resource management or related disciplines aligned to promoting beneficial Māori and environmental outcomes.

Eligibility Criteria

• Currently enrolled in the second-to-last year of a relevant undergraduate degree or progressing into a master’s programme.
• Eligible to work full-time in New Zealand from 23 November 2026 through 19 February 2027.
• Possession of a restricted driver’s license is preferred but not essential.

What Auckland Council Offers

This internship provides practical experience, skill development, and insight into Auckland Council’s work supporting Tāmaki Makaurau. You will receive dedicated support from your team, opportunities to connect with fellow interns, and chances to grow confidence while exploring career paths in local government.

Auckland Council is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As an organisation accredited by GenderTick and a Pride Pledge signatory, it fosters a respectful and empowering workplace environment where all staff feel valued and able to thrive.

Candidate Support

• Recognition and celebration of whakapapa, reo, and tikanga as strengths—encouraging you to bring your authentic self to the workplace.
• Accommodations for virtual interviews and inclusion of whānau support during recruitment upon request.
• Accessibility adjustments to help you present your best self during the hiring process.

Application Process

• Submit an online application including your CV and brief questions.
• Complete a one-way video interview.
• Participate in a formal interview panel (two-person), either in person or virtually.
• Undergo pre-employment checks.
• Receive offer and join the team.

Additional Information

The internship is officially titled "Healthy Waters and Flood Resilience Intern." This role welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those of all genders, ethnicities, ages, educational levels, and religious beliefs, as well as from Rainbow communities, disabled, and neurodivergent individuals. Auckland Council strives to ensure an accessible recruitment process and encourages candidates to communicate support needs during hiring.