Welcome to New Zealand!
New Zealand is a country unlike any other. With warm, peaceful islands in the north, majestic, rugged mountains in the south and any number of variations in between, it is truly a diverse country. The nation is comprised of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, as well as several smaller islands, all of which are home to singular wildlife, varied cultures and friendly people. The striking landscapes that have inspired filmmakers have also captured the imaginations of tourist, backpackers, adventure seekers and students. Interning in New Zealand offers you opportunities to explore beautiful landscapes, enjoy the friendly hospitality of the New Zealanders, or "Kiwis," and experience a unique country and culture.
Internships in New Zealand are offered in a variety of locations including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin. However, due to the wide range of host organizations with which we work, you will not apply to a specific city. You will instead be placed in the best internship that meets your goals within the country.
Why Intern in New Zealand?
New Zealand offers an emerging global market, a growing global interest, state-of-the-art research, amazing environmental industry, and insight into Pacific and Maori culture. Throughout the North and South Island, New Zealand has many opportunities in Agriculture, Animal, and Veterinary Science; Arts and Humanities; Business and Marketing; Environmental Studies, Hospitality and Tourism; and Sports Management and Exercise Science. While you can intern in almost any field, those with an interest in the above industries are especially encouraged to consider New Zealand. Engineering placements in New Zealand are highly competitive.
Career Fields Available in New Zealand
Check out our internship opportunities in New Zealand below!
- Agriculture and Veterinary Science
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Arts and Humanities
- Business and Marketing
- Communication, Media, and PR
- Education
- Engineering
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- Fashion
- Film and TV
- Health
- Hospitality, Events, and Tourism
- IT and Computer Science
- Legal Studies and Advocacy
- Performing and Visual Arts
- Political Science
- Psychology and Social Work
- Research
- Science and Math
- Sports and Exercise
I must start by saying that my time abroad in New Zealand was absolutely the best experience of my life. I am so grateful to have gone through ISA/TEAN's program. ISA/TEAN was absolutely AMAZING. They were always just a quick email or phone call away if I needed anything. I really can't say enough good things about how ISA/TEAN takes care of its students while they are abroad, while still allowing them to be independent with their experience. Thank you ISA/TEAN!
Lauren K.
California Polytechnic State University
Orientation, Excursions, & Activities
Orientation
Your program in New Zealand will begin with a multi-day orientation on the North Island. From getting to know Maori culture during traditional ceremonies and meals, to journeying through Hobbiton and Rotorua’s unique geothermal landscape, the Orientation Excursion is one exciting and educational introduction to New Zealand. Traveling from Auckland (the country’s largest city) to rural Rotorua, the orientation sets you up for a successful experience abroad, introducing you to the local culture, your fellow ISA students, and how to live and study like a Kiwi, all while having a memorable journey. Our in-country staff personally guide you throughout the four full days of activities. Come ready for an adventure!
- Visit a marae (a Maori meeting house) to experience a traditional welcome ceremony and hangi dinner
- Stay in comfortable accommodation while getting to know your new study abroad friends and ISA in-country staff
- Visit the Hobbiton film set, including the famous Shire’s 44 hobbit holes, to see how this fascinating franchise put New Zealand on the global tourism map
- Experience the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, discovering Rotorua’s unique geothermal wonders and exploring the volcanic landscape of Rotorua
- Attend orientation sessions designed to prepare you for your life abroad
- Wrap up an adventure-filled week with a final group dinner before you depart for your host city, where you will receive an introduction by your local ISA resident staff
Excursions & Activities
Following the multi-day orientation in Auckland and Rotorua, you will travel to your final host city to get settled into your housing, meet your local Resident Director, and get accustomed to your host city. Throughout your program, you will have the chance to go on weekend trips, day trips, and optional trips. The locations below are a sample of included and optional excursions that have run in the past. Please know that these are subject to change.
Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is renowned for its natural beauty, rural farmland, misty rainforests and pristine golden beaches. You will have the opportunity to kayak through sea caves, interact with the local marine life, and dig your own hot spring pool at Hot Water Beach -this is an experience you will truly never forget!
Huka Falls and Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is surrounded by beautiful forests, volcanic mountains, and snowy peaks, undoubtedly making it one of the world's most unique and picturesque areas. During this trip, you will raft down the Tongariro River and have the chance to do some cliff jumping, if you so dare. You will then visit Huka Falls and cruise around the bays of Lake Taupo, visiting Maori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay.
Weta Workshop and Seal Coast Safari
A must for any fan of the Lord of the Rings or Hobbit trilogies, the Weta Workshop Tour is a movie based visitor experience providing unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the workings of Weta Workshop. Then it's off to check out Wellington's rugged coast line, offering sublime views, and the chance to encounter New Zealand fur seals up close and personal.
Housing Details
ISA Housing provides the opportunity for interns to experience aspects of the local lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor. The experience of living in another culture will be both educational and rewarding so long as you stay open-minded.There are many differences in culture and lifestyle between life in New Zealand and the U.S. Remember: the key to a positive experience is flexibility!
Apartments
- Located near public transit routes and
- Fully furnished with a fully-equipped kitchen.
- The number of participants per apartments vary from apartment to apartment.
Student Residence
- A cross between dorm-style living and a boarding house.
- Located off campus and are not affiliated to a university
- All residents are students.
- The number of participants per room vary by city.
Hostel
- Centrally-located near public transportation and points of interest.
- You may share a room with another ISA participant.
- Rooms offer single beds, an attached bathroom and a locked closet for personal belongings.
- Room cleaning and bed linen services are included.
- Internet access, meals and laundry facilities vary from hostel to hostel.
Homestay
- Homestays may be utilized in New Zealand at times depending on the location of your placement and the distance of your commute.
- If a homestay will be necessary for your program your ISA Program Manager or Internship Placement Coordinator will discuss this with you during your placement process.
- A fantastic cultural experience and full immersion into New Zealand by living with a local family.
Travel Visa Information
Participants must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months AFTER their expected departure date from New Zealand.
U.S. Citizens
Prior to departure, interns apply for a student training visa. Processing usually takes 6-8 weeks. Applicants must be current university students under the age of 30. If you are a recent graduate, please contact the Program Manager for alternative visa options.
Non-U.S. Citizens
Please note that non-U.S. citizens should contact their Consulate to verify specific entry requirements. As these requirements vary based on citizenship, non-U.S. citizens may not be permitted to travel to New Zealand without a visa or outside of their visa dates. Also, visa fees for non-U.S. citizens may differ so please be sure to check specific consulate's website for the most up to date information.
Note: Embassy and Consulate contact information is subject to change without notice. Please refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate to verify information.
