Internship in New Zealand

Internship New Zealand's programme is designed to enable students currently engaged in tertiary studies to come to New Zealand to undertake practical training required by their institution as part of their course curriculum.

All participants must be able to produce documentary evidence of their eligibility for this programme.

Two of the most frequently asked questions, which help explain our New Zealand programme are:

Some programmes say I need to find my own housing. I am totally lost. Where should I start looking?
Just showing up in a foreign country and finding a place to live is certainly a challenge, but it is not as difficult as it might sound. Research can be done in advance or you can begin your search after you arrive and stay in a youth hostel until you find a room.

Usually, university or student housing postings are a great place to start looking. Information can usually be found online, in local newspapers, or on public posting boards on university campuses. Also, while your employer might require you find your own housing, this doesn't mean they won't provide you with any help. Most likely, they have assisted others in the past and know the best places to start looking.

Be aware that housing is a significant cost. In addition to monthly payments, most landlords require an up-front security deposit, so be prepared to make a sizeable cash payment directly upon arrival.

How can I prepare for cultural differences and feelings of homesickness or loneliness when I'm abroad? How will I feel when I finally come home after a long time abroad?

You might experience culture shock both when you go abroad and (more unexpectedly) when you return, since being immersed in a foreign culture changes the way you view your own.

Usually returnees are excited to see friends and family, but there is certainly a chance that you will find yourself bored after a few weeks at home. While you were off having the time of your life, having new experiences every day, life at home has probably not changed much since you left. When you get back you might want to embrace your culture again or even be temped to reject it.

Either way, you should give yourself time to readapt before forming any permanent opinions about your home.