There are many opportunities for students at the graduate level to work on NZTRI projects. Under certain circumstances we may consider exceptional undergraduate students who have research interest closely aligned with projects NZTRI is working on. The following information and examples show how you can become part of our research team and how the opportunities we provide can enhance your educational experience. In busy times there will also be available temporary work as a research assistant. Please contact us if you are interested in working or studying with the NZTRI.
We provide a supportive and resourced environment in which students can work towards and complete a research project. Depending on the requirement of your university, you can work on a range of NZTRI projects, or focus on completing a research project that is of mutual interest to your studies and NZTRI. This means you are fulfilling the requirements of your university while you are working on a NZTRI funded project. We benefit from your skills and enthusiasm for conducting tourism research. Our students and staff also benefit from interaction with people in the same field around the world.
We take a multi-disciplinary perspective to managing the problems and prospects of tourism development. You do not have to be a tourism student to work with us. For example you might be studying information technology, management, marketing, geography, anthropology, sociology, economics, environmental and resource management.
If you have any enquiries regarding internships, please have a look at 'before you arrive' or contact Suzanne Histen via email suzanne.histen@aut.ac.nz
To ensure that you are fully prepared for your arrival into New Zealand we recommend that you consider the following points:
All interns need to have a valid visa to enter New Zealand (unless you match the conditions to be exempt). An internship at NZTRI is NOT considered as ‘employment’ as you are not getting paid. Many interns arrive in New Zealand on a visitor’s visa. Citizens from most countries are given a three months visitors permit when they arrive here. However, this time period can normally be extended once you have arrived in New Zealand.
Most of our interns choose either a visitors visa or a working holiday scheme when undertaking an internship with NZTRI. All visitors need to carry a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date that you intend to leave the country.
To enter New Zealand you need:
For further information go to http://www.immigration.govt.nz/
As an internship at NZTRI is NOT considered as ‘employment’ many interns arrive in New Zealand on a visitor’s visa. Citizens from most countries are given a three months visitors permit when they arrive here. However, this time period can normally be extended once you have arrived in New Zealand.
If you’re granted a Visitor’s Permit you need to meet certain conditions during your stay:
If you break any of these conditions we may require you to leave the country immediately.
For further information on visitors visa and permit go to: http://www.immigration.govt.nz/Migrant/Stream/Visit
Working Holiday schemes allow those aged from 18-30 the opportunity to take on additional employment while completing an internship at NZTRI. Although the tourist visa has various benefits, people using a visitor’s permit are not allowed to do any (other) work. This means if you are not sure if you will also work in NZ or stay longer, the working holiday scheme is the best option. This scheme has some special restrictions and can be obtained only once in your life time.
To be eligible you…
You don’t need to arrange a job before you get here but you can’t take up permanent employment, unless you apply for and are granted a temporary Work Permit.
Normally, you need to apply for a working holiday scheme Work Visa at a New Zealand Immigration Service office while you’re in your home country. However if you’re from Canada, the Netherlands, Malaysia or Singapore, you can also apply for a working holiday scheme Work Visa if you’re already in New Zealand, provided you:
New Zealand currently has working holiday schemes with several countries. To find out the exact requirements for your country go to: http://www.immigration.govt.nz/Migrant/Stream/Work/WorkingHoliday
Finding the right accommodation in Auckland can be a challenge. There are several different options available to interns. The type of accommodation chosen will largely depend on the amount of money you are prepared to spend. The following information can be used as a guide to help you on your search for the right place to stay.
(money paid in advance as a security which is paid back if there is no damaging to the property etc)
You may also be required to pay a bond when moving into any type of accommodation which can range from the first and last month’s rent to more, so always ask!
Many of our interns temporarily stay in accommodation such as a hostel or backpackers when they first arrive in Auckland, and then proceed to look for long-term accommodation (such as a flat). It is advisable to book your accommodation in a hostel/backpackers before arriving in New Zealand, especially during the high tourist season from November to March.
Hostels offer accommodation to those on a budget, common facilities include: internet access, shared bathroom/ kitchen facilities, and a TV room.
The following hostels are conveniently located in the hub of Central Auckland, all are within 20 minutes walking distance of NZTRI:
Auckland Central Backpackers (ACB)
The YHA (2x)
Base Backpackers
Queen Street Backpackers
Albert Park Backpackers
City Groove Backpackers
If you prefer to stay out of the main city away from the hustle and bustle, but still within a short distance of NZTRI, the following hostels have been recommended by past interns:
The Brown Kiwi
Pentlands
Oaklands
It would take approximately 1-2 weeks to find a permanent place to live. It is recommended to look when you arrive, instead of booking from home as you never know what you might get! Some hostels only offer nightly rates and not weekly rates. This is especially true for the larger hostels, like Auckland central backpacker, etc. They cater more to the backpacking crowd. Albert Park does offer weekly rates.
The following is a list of long term accommodation providers in Central Auckland:
YWCA
Huia Residencie
Princeton
Rooms start from about $150 a week, all depending on the standard and location. **You also need to budget for expenses on top of that e.g. power & phone per month, check to see what the rate quoted includes. Many interns find out about available flats on noticeboards around the university, in the local newspaper or by word of mouth.
The following links could also be used to search for flats around Auckland:
http://www.easyroommate.co.nz
This website is also very useful when looking for accommodation. It is really simple to register and to create an ad that explains that you are looking for a room in a flat, etc.
AUT Accommodation Database and Flat List:
Homestay accommodation is also another popular option. Unlike a hostel, visitors stay with a family in a family home. You get to experience what it is like to live in New Zealand, host families will treat you as one of the family and you should expect to spend time with them and take part in family outings etc. A private company called Kiwi Homestay Consultants Ltd organise finding an appropriate homestay for visitors/students to New Zealand. If Kiwi Homestay Consultants Ltd are able to find you a homestay you are required to pay one weeks rent to the company as a finders fee.
Enjoy the more relaxed lifestyle with great beaches as well as lively cafes, restaurants, leisure pursuits, and a thriving arts scene. Public transport options to get you into town include a very good ferry service from both Birkenhead and Devonport which saves all the traffic hassles especially during peak times in the morning and afternoon.
Rent $4,000.00
Food $1,750.00
Power $300.00 (could be included in rent – need to check)
Phone $230.00 (+intern. calls via skype or prepay)
Transport $500.00
Laundry $180.00
Clothing $750.00
Entertainment $500.00
TOTAL: $8,210.00
Big Mac $4.65
Large pizza $12.00-$18.00
Asian meal $8.00-$15.00
Coffee $3.00
Can of coke $1.80
Beer (pint) $6 -7.50
Wine (750ml) $9.00-$15.00
Movie Ticket $15.00 (cheaper nights offered e.g. Tues)
Cellphones: variety of deals available (vodafone prepay most frequently -$35.00, bring a simlock free phone with you)
Daily Car Hire $60.00 (cheaper deals available but they may charge per kilometre and petrol is extra)
CD’s $20.00 - $35.00
Creating a bank account in New Zealand is easy. You do not need to be a resident of New Zealand or provide references. Just take your passport and a letter proving you are at NZTRI (we can supply you with this on request). You are required to show the bank proof of your New Zealand residential address.
If you want to open a cheque account, the bank will need identification, such as your passport or driver licence, and a deposit – usually about $50. When paying by cheque, it is normal to show identification such as a driver licence, credit card or passport.
Please note that cheques are becoming less common meaning that they are often not accepted at retail outlets. If you earn income, you will need to give the bank an IRD number for tax purposes. To get an IRD number, there is an application form available at Any NZ Post Shop branch.
Automated Teller Machines (ATM’s/cash dispensers) are located on the outside of most banks as well as selected shops. International credit cards and ATM cards will work as long as they have a four-digit PIN encoded. Check with your bank before leaving home.
All major credit cards are accepted at most shops, tourist centres, hotels, restaurants and service stations. The types of credit cards accepted are often displayed by logos on the exterior façade or in another prominent position within the respective business.
Travellers Cheques and foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change, hotels and some shops.
To calculate foreign exchange rates please use the converter.
New Zealand’s currency is comprised of New Zealand dollars ($) and cents and is based on the decimal system with 100 cents in the New Zealand dollar.
The following New Zealand bank notes and coins are in circulation:
Bank notes with the face values of: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 dollars;
Coins of: 1 and 2 dollar denominations, as well as 10, 20 and 50 cents.
If possible, arrive into the country with some New Zealand currency in several denominations.
If you do not have a permanent address in New Zealand and are expecting mail to arrive, the New Zealand Post Office can set up a ‘Post Box’ or “Private Bag’ for you. This will enable you to receive your mail from the post office that has created this service for you.
Also the preferred option may be Post Restante, As this is an inexpensive way to receive parcels and letters from friends and family while travelling around NZ.
There are several post shops in Auckland.
Interns can also receive their mail through NZTRI by using the following mailing address:
c/o NZTRI @ AUT
Mail No D-87
Private Bag 92006
Auckland 1020
Phone Booths are usually located in town centres or suburban shopping centres. Most booths require a phone card which can be purchased from supermarkets and convenience stores. International calling cards such as the ‘Kia Ora’ or ‘Yabba’ card offer cheap international calling rates via landlines.
Mobile phone services are provided by Telecom and Vodafone. Both companies offer a range of different phones and payment plans. Vodafone offers txt2000 for $10 which is used by most of us.
Dial: 111 in an emergency if you wish to contact the NZ police, an ambulance, or fire fighters. More information on who to contact in an emergency can be found on the inside front or back cover of the Yellow Pages telephone book.
For general information visit the Civil Defence website.
Like many major cities around the world, central Auckland city can suffer from traffic congestion, particularly during weekday peak traffic times (7.30-9.30am & 4.30-6.30pm) and the beginning of long weekends. Fridays tend to be the worst times for travelling.
Auckland offers a reliable and efficient public transport system. Transport services in Auckland are organised by Maxx Regional Transport. Visit www.maxx.co.nz or call (09) 366 6400 to find out about the bus, train and ferry services in the region.
If you choose to own a car while in New Zealand there are some important things you need to know.
To find out more about New Zealand road rules visit the following site: http://www.landtransport.govt.nz/. For a more thorough explanation of rules, study the New Zealand Road Code, this can be purchased at any good book store. All New Zealand vehicles are required to have a valid warrant of fitness and registration. Purchasing car insurance is highly recommended (Kiwibank or AA, or State). For advice on registration, car licensing and change of ownership contact the Land Transport Safety Authority freephone 0800 699 000. You can get cars relatively easily at TradeMe; every Sunday is a car-fair at Ellerslie Race course; there are notes in hostels etc. of people selling their cars.
Cyling is not really popular in Auckland City because it is quite hilly and often windy - there are few cycle paths. However the cycling culture is slowly taking off. See the website http://cyclingauckland.co.nz/. The following are some rules that cyclists should follow. Check out the New Zealand Road Code for more information.
It is illegal to discriminate on the grounds of gender, race, religion, and ethnicity. If you believe your human rights have been discriminated against contact the Human Rights Commission.
Required Documents
To make your time in New Zealand easier it is important to bring the following documentation with you
Birth certificate
Marriage certificate
Curriculum Vitae
Academic Qualifications
Drivers Licence
Proof of Address
Language
English is spoken by all New Zealanders. Many citizens do not know any other languages so it is vital that you are competent in English so you can settle into the country easily.
Te Reo Maori is the indigenous language of New Zealand and is spoken by about 50,000 Maori people and a small number of Europeans.
Auckland enjoys a warm coastal climate without extremes of temperature. The average daily maximum temperatures range from 22C in summer to 16C during the winter months. Auckland is known to experience ‘Four Seasons in One Day’ so be sure to wear layers and pack a light waterproof jacket as the conditions can be changeable, particularly during spring and autumn. New Zealand experiences relatively little air pollution compared to many other countries, which makes the UV rays in our sunlight very strong so it is advised that during the summer you wear sunscreen and sunglasses.
The seasons in New Zealand are the opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.
Summer: December - February
Autumn: March - May
Winter: June - August
Spring: September - November
Daylight Savings Time
New Zealand is 12 hours ahead of the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and is one of the first countries to see each new day
During summer ‘daylight savings time’ applies – all clocks are put forward one hour on the first Sunday in October (GMT +13), and put back one hour on the third Sunday in March (GMT +12). All parts of New Zealand operate in the same time zone.
Using Electrical Appliances
Most foreign electrical appliances do not work in New Zealand without an electrical adaptor being used. The plugs have two or three narrow pins. You can easily buy an adaptor in Auckland.
Additional Work
If you wish to take on additional employment while staying in New Zealand the following internet sites could be of some help to you:
TradeMe
Mobile Phones
If you have a sim-lock free mobile phone, you can take that phone with you and only buy the pre-pay card from 2degrees (currently the cheapest) or Vodafone. You can register online and top up the phone with your credit card. Please note that it is expensive to use the payphones here, especially if you are calling a mobile phone from a landline.
New Zealand celebrates 11 public holidays a year, on days of national, religious or cultural significance. The public holidays are:
Every person is entitled to these 11 days’ holiday. If any of the first four days happens to fall on a weekend when most people do not work, the holiday itself still occurs on that day, but the legal entitlement to a day off work is transferred to the next Monday or Tuesday.
Here are several examples of words and phrases that are commonly used by New Zealanders (also known as ‘Kiwis’). Hopefully this will help you gain a better understanding of colloquial local language.
Ads – commercials, advertisements on television
Aotearoa – The Maori name for New Zealand. Translated it means ‘land of the long white cloud’.
Arvo – afternoon
Bach – small holiday home
Barbie – Barbeque
Big Smoke – Large city/ town
Bloke – Man
Boot – the rear of the car that is used for storage
‘Bring a Plate’ – means bring a plate of food that will be shared with others, often asked to do this at barbeques. If unsure, ask the host what type of food they would like you to bring
Caravan – Mobile home that can be towed behind a car
Cheers – Thank you
Cheerio – goodbye / a cocktail sausage
Chocka – Full / Overflowing
Chick – slang word for a girl/female
Creek – small stream
Cuppa – a cup of tea
Cuz – cousin, family
De Facto – a couple living together who are not married
Dole – the unemployment benefit
Dodgy – bad, unreliable, not good, suspect
Entrée – Appetiser, hors d'oeurve
Flannel – cloth used for washing ones face
Flat – rental accommodation that is often shared with others
Footie / Football – rugby union or league
G’day, Gidday – Greeting
Hangi – An earth oven built in a large pit used by the Maori to cook meat and vegetables
Hard Case – an amusing person
Hard Yakka – working hard
Hosing down – raining heavily
Jandals – summer footwear, also known as thongs or flip flops
Jumper – sweatshirt, jersey
Knackered – lethargic, very tired
Lift – elevator
Lolly – candy
Loo – toilet
Main – the primary dish of a meal
Mate – friend
Motorway – freeway
OE – Overseas experience. Often a student will travel and work overseas after graduating university.
Pakeha – non-Maori person. Their ancestors are from the UK.
Pav / Pavlova – Large meringue like dessert, usually topped with cream and fruit.
Petrol – gasoline, gas
Postal Code – Zip code
Pub – a facility that sells liquor i.e. bar
‘Rattle Yer Dags’ – hurry up
Ropeable –very angry
Ring – as in ‘I’ll give you a ring’ – means that they will use the telephone to get in contact with you
Rubbish – trash, garbage
Serviette – napkin
Sunnies – sunglasses
Ta – Thanks
Togs – swim suit, bathing costume
Twink – correction fluid, white out
Ute – small pick up truck
Whinge – complain
Wop-wops – situated in a remote area
When you arrive at NZTRI you will get your own desk and computer which will enableyou to use the Internet, to undertake research and to communicate with others via email. You will be introduced to other staff members.
Working at NZTRI gives you the opportunity to work in a very friendly environment with professionals/experts, PhD-Students, Interns, etc. from all over the world such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Holland, France, Germany, etc.
Depending on the projects that NZTRI is working on, you will be a research assistant in particular fields, which gives you the feeling to be part of the team.
However, sometimes in between some projects, there is not much work to do, therefore, self required working is essential.
On special occasions such as birthdays or the last working day of a team member “Morning tea” will be organised, where everybody is free to bring some snacks, cake, and typical food from another country, for instance.
The internship at NZTRI is a very good and friendly professional experience. Please read the testimonials from previous interns.