Are you ready to gain real‑world experience in tourism while bringing your Ngāi Tahu whakapapa, values and perspective with you?
The Ngāi Tahu Tourism Placement Programme offers paid, hands‑on placement opportunities for Ngāi Tahu whānui who are ready to step into a structured, supportive workplace environment across some of Aotearoa’s most iconic tourism businesses.
This programme is about more than just a job. It’s about building skills, confidence, connections and pride - supporting you on a pathway that can extend well beyond the placement itself.
This programme is open to rangatahi and pakeke who are ready for a full‑time workplace experience within tourism and hospitality.
You may be a good fit if you:
Applicants must be registered Ngāi Tahu members.
(Not registered yet? Support can be provided.)
Placements take place within Ngāi Tahu Tourism’s commercial tourism businesses, where learning happens through:
While some roles may include opportunities to engage with Ngāi Tahu values, te reo Māori and storytelling, placements primarily focus on building strong foundations in tourism, hospitality and customer experience - reflecting the balance between culture and commerce that is central to Ngāi Tahu Tourism.
Depending on the business and location, placement opportunities may include:
Not sure which role or location is right for you? That’s completely okay.
Our team is happy to kōrero with you - and your whānau, if helpful - to find the best fit.
Ready to take the next step? View the full role details and submit your application via our job listing.
Eligibility reminder:
Ngāi Tahu Tourism is a collection of iconic experiences across Aotearoa. Interns may be placed at one of our locations or corporate teams, depending on placement availability.
From adventure and nature-based tourism to culture and storytelling - every business plays a role in sharing the Ngāi Tahu story.
A truly unique experience at the intersection of science, culture and conservation, set under some of the darkest skies in the world. Interns may work across hospitality, guiding, storytelling or customer service - all grounded in the relationship between people, place and the cosmos.
Dark Sky Project | Takapō / Lake Tekapo
Experts in glacier guiding and safety, offering unforgettable encounters with the natural world. Interns can expect exposure to guiding operations, customer care and working in a team that values respect for te taiao and local knowledge.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides | West Coast
A thrilling jet boat ride on one of Aotearoa’s most powerful rivers. Interns here experience fast‑paced operations, visitor logistics and frontline tourism in a business known for precision, safety and excitement.
That’s okay - we know everyone’s journey looks different.
If you’re interested in the Ngāi Tahu Tourism Internship Programme but not ready to apply just yet, register your interest below. We’ll keep your details on hand and share updates about future internship opportunities, key dates and programme news.
Register your interest and stay connected.
How many hours will I work?
All placements are a minimum of 32 hours per week. Some weeks are likely to require more hours, particularly during busy periods or peak visitor demand. Flexibility around hours is an important part of working in tourism.
What is the pay rate?
All placements are paid at the Living Wage. You can find the current Living Wage rate at livingwage.org.nz.
Is accommodation provided or guaranteed?
Accommodation is not guaranteed, so flexibility is important. The business may assist with local knowledge, advice, or connections; however, it is the responsibility of the Placement to find accommodation that suits them and where they feel comfortable and safe. We encourage you to begin looking early, and to reach out to us if you are struggling, we want to help where we can.
Do I need to be registered with Ngāi Tahu?
Yes - you must be a registered member of Ngāi Tahu to be eligible for a Placement. If you are unsure of your number or how to register, visit ngaitahu.iwi.nz or contact Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu directly.
Is a permanent role or ongoing work guaranteed after the Placement?
No. A permanent role or ongoing work is not guaranteed. Any future opportunities will be considered through the business’s standard, transparent recruitment process.
Can I apply for a Placement more than once?
The Placement is a one-time opportunity if you are successful. If you are not successful on your first attempt, you are welcome to apply again in future years. If you’ve previously had a placement with us and are keen to work with us again, get in touch as we can work with you on other suitable opportunities.
Do I have to work on public holidays?
Yes. If the business operates on public holidays (including Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day) and you are rostered to work, you will be expected to do so. The tourism sector operates 365 days per year, and the summer period is peak season where leave is rarely approved. We recommend planning personal commitments around this before accepting a placement.
Can I bring my pet with me?
This is unlikely. While it may depend on your accommodation agreement, bringing pets is not encouraged due to practical and accommodation limitations. If this matters to you, please raise it early in the process.
What pre-employment checks are required?
All successful candidates must complete the following before starting:
• Drug and alcohol test (urine sample)
• Ministry of Justice check (police check)
• Ngāi Tahu registration number confirmation
• Two reference checks - previous managers, teachers, coaches, or similar
Please ensure your referees are aware they may be contacted and can speak to your reliability and work ethic.
Will I be drug and alcohol tested during my employment?
Yes. Random Drug and Alcohol testing forms part of ongoing employment and you may be required to undertake testing at any time. This reflects the health and safety standards expected across the tourism industry.
Can I work in more than one location?
Potentially. This depends on logistical factors such as accommodation availability, travel arrangements, and business operational needs. This cannot be guaranteed.
I want to withdraw my application - will this affect future applications?
No. Withdrawing an application will not affect future applications. We appreciate being advised as early as possible if circumstances change.
I’m unsure about something - who do I contact?
If you are unsure about any aspect of the Placement, please call or email us. Great communication is one of the first things we look for in tourism and hospitality roles.
What support will I receive?
You will not be on your own. Each placement includes check-ins, a placement program where you can connect with other placements and support from your host business. If something is not working well, there are clear steps to raise concerns and get things back on track. We take the wellbeing of our candidates seriously.