Ngāti Kuia Summer Internship Programme 2026/27

Our Summer Internship Programme is designed to provide meaningful, paid work experience while creating opportunities for personal growth, career exploration, and stronger connections with Ngāti Kuia, our people, and our aspirations for the future.

As an intern, you will have the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience within Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Kuia, working alongside experienced kaimahi on a range of projects, programmes, and initiatives that make a positive difference for our iwi and wider communities. Whether you are considering future study, exploring career pathways, or looking to strengthen your connection to your whakapapa, this internship offers a supportive environment to learn, contribute, and grow.

Throughout the programme, interns will develop valuable workplace skills, build professional networks, gain insight into the operations of an iwi organisation, and learn more about the kaupapa, values, and strategic priorities of Ngāti Kuia.

If you are enthusiastic, eager to learn, and interested in making a meaningful contribution while developing your skills and experience, we encourage you to apply.

Internship Term: Mid-November 2026 to Late January 2027

Location: Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Kuia offices and programme locations across Te Tauihu

Employment Status: Fixed-Term Summer Internship

Hours: 20 hours per week, with flexibility to support programme delivery, professional development opportunities, and learning experiences that enhance your internship journey.

Internship #4: Swim School Instructor (4 positions available) 

Develop teaching and leadership skills while helping tamariki build confidence in the water.

This internship is perfect for someone who loves working with tamariki, is confident in te reo Māori, and wants to make a positive impact through teaching, leadership and whānau engagement. You’ll play an important role in delivering Te Ara o Hinepoupou, the Ngāti Kuia rumaki reo swim school programme, while building valuable skills in education, programme delivery, health and safety, and community development.

Key requirements and responsibilities:

• Deliver swim lessons and water confidence activities that support tamariki to safely develop their swimming skills.
• Manage small group learning activities and provide supervision in and around the water.
• Create a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment that encourages participation, confidence and achievement.
• Support the integration of te reo Māori, tikanga and Ngāti Kuiatanga throughout programme delivery.
• Act as a positive role model for tamariki and contribute to a learning environment that reflects Ngāti Kuia values.
• Build positive relationships with tamariki and whānau, encouraging engagement and participation in the programme.
• Support the safe use of facilities and equipment while following all health and safety requirements.
• Assist with registrations, attendance records, programme administration and communication with participants and whānau.
• Help prepare resources, set up activities and support the smooth day-to-day delivery of the swim school.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities, including AUSTSWIM instructor training and other relevant qualifications.

What you’ll gain and learn

• Practical teaching and facilitation experience within a supportive reo Māori environment.
• Nationally recognised swim instruction training through AUSTSWIM.
• Confidence leading groups and working with tamariki and whānau.
• Strong communication, teamwork and leadership skills.
• Experience in programme planning, administration and delivery.
• Knowledge of health and safety practices within aquatic and community settings.
• A deeper understanding of culturally grounded approaches to learning, wellbeing and water safety.
• Opportunities to strengthen your te reo Māori and understanding of Ngāti Kuiatanga in practice.
• Valuable workplace experience within an iwi organisation.
• Skills and experience that support future pathways in education, aquatics, recreation, hauora, community development and leadership.

Applications are now open. We encourage all eligible tauira and rangatahi who are interested in developing their skills, building their confidence, and strengthening their connection to Ngāti Kuia to apply.