Applications are now open for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade‘s (MFAT) Aorere and Vaka Policy Internships.

The Aorere and Vaka internships are part of MFAT’s efforts to attract more Māori and Pasifika staff to help ensure that its foreign ministry and advice reflects the full diversity of Aotearoa.

The nature of MFAT’s work is broad-ranging, so rangatahi with a range of skills, experiences and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. 

To be eligible for the summer Aorere and Vaka Internships you will need to meet the following criteria:

• Studying towards a minimum of a Bachelor’s level qualification – any discipline.
• Be within your last year or two of study with a good academic track record.
• Willing and able to be based in Wellington between mid-November 2022 – mid-February 2023.
• Group participation skills showcased through either cultural, community, volunteer, church or sports-based activities
• New Zealand citizenship, and of Māori or Pasifika descent.
• Able to meet and maintain minimum security clearance requirements.

Applications close at midnight on Sunday, 21 August 2022.

What can an Aorere and Vaka internship offer you?

As an Aorere or Vaka Intern, you will gain valuable work experience and development opportunities, as well as an insight into the world of foreign policy and diplomacy.

The internship is an excellent way to prepare for a graduate role with MFAT, or the wider public service.

As an Aorere or Vaka Intern, you may find yourself working on areas such as advising the government on our relations with other countries, climate change and the environment, development and humanitarian activities, the UN and human rights, trade negotiations or international security & arms control.

These are all kaupapa which are important to the safety and prosperity of Aotearoa whānui including Te Iwi Māori.

internships include:

• A paid internship over summer (Nov – Feb) within one of the Foreign Policy teams
• A research project and opportunity to present your findings
• A workshop series designed to prepare you for a graduate role
• Opportunities to use, share and further develop your mātauranga Māori skills
• Networking opportunities
• Support and guidance from a mentor
• Travel assistance will be provided for interns outside of the Wellington region.