For individuals
Mā te takitahi
"The Ministry for Primary Industries was my dream place to work after graduating university due to my interest in biosecurity, as I’ve always really cared about protecting our ecosystems from disease and pests.
Since joining the graduate programme, I’ve had so many great opportunities across MPI. The grads have been able to engage in unique development experiences, such planning and attending a stakeholder trip in the Wairarapa, participating in seminars tailored for grads, and visiting the Animal Health Laboratory in Wallaceville, Upper Hutt.
My first of 2 six-month rotations has been in biosecurity intelligence. With my background in biology and computer science, I was excited to have the opportunity to apply both disciplines. So far, I have produced reports that have had a direct impact within Biosecurity New Zealand, presented to other MPI teams, shadowed the office of the deputy director-general, and have been able to teach myself new skills, such as ArcGIS.
In addition to the professional opportunities, I’ve been able to build strong connections with the other grads, both inside and outside of work. I’m originally from Auckland, so moving to Wellington knowing anyone was quite daunting. However, the grad cohort all regularly catch without up over lunch and organise social activities together, including hikes, visits to local markets, and group dinners, which has made settling in much easier.
Being a graduate at MPI has been an incredible experience and I look forward to the rest of the programme!"
"I studied a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in economics with minors in politics at the University of Otago. I wasn’t sure where I wanted to take my career, or even what my options were, but I knew I was interested in environmental economics. The MPI graduate programme appealed to me as our primary industries play a prominent role in the GDP, sustainability, and politics of Aotearoa.
"My first rotation placed me in the investment, community and oversight team, where I researched and engaged with stakeholders of emerging sustainable finance trends. For my second rotation, I chose to join Māori agribusiness, a team that supports whenua Māori owners and Māori owned entities to fulfil their aspirations for their rohe/rōpū.
"The graduate programme helped me understand my own aspirations and goals. The opportunity to work with a variety of teams showed me exactly what I'm passionate about and how I like to work. My permanent role is fulfilling and supports a kaupapa I’m incredibly proud of, and it is not something I would have considered in the past.
"Another benefit is instantly having a cohort of mates across the organisation, transitioning from study to work can be jarring and our support network was invaluable. We have made lifelong friendships and life changing connections."
"I joined the MPI grad program after finishing a Master of Science at Lincoln University, driven by my passion to contribute to the future of New Zealand's primary industries.
"In my first rotation with aquaculture policy, I have had the chance to delve into an exciting sector and engage in the policy development process, working to help accelerate aquaculture in New Zealand. I didn't have much previous experience in this area, which highlights one of the best aspects of the programme – the ability to try new things and develop in a supportive environment. I am really excited for my next 2 rotations and am keen to experience work across different areas of MPI.
"One of the best parts of the grad program so far has been having a cohort of grads to lean on for support and make new friends. As a cohort, we are provided with a lot of development sessions that have been really beneficial to develop soft skills, which will be useful in any future roles."
"I came into the grad program after having gained a Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies and Political Science at Victoria University. As I was nearing the end of my studies, I didn't have the clearest picture of what I wanted to do in my career, so I decided to apply for MPI's Graduate Program. I was excited by the opportunity to try 3 different teams out before finding a permanent role. My first rotation has been in the international relations team, working on maintaining relationships with our international counterparts, and supporting international co-operation activities.
"I've really enjoyed my time as a grad so far. One of the best things about the program has been belonging to a cohort of grads, each getting our first taste of 'work life' together. There are also a lot of development opportunities, like mentoring and training that have been super valuable. The program has been a supportive environment for me to learn about New Zealand's primary sectors and government more generally."
Other ways we support primary industry careers
As well as our grad programme, we also support primary industry careers through:
MPI scholarships
We know that balancing study with everything else you have going on is hard yards. We support a range of scholarships and awards that may help you.
Fisheries New Zealand scholarship
Available to both Masters and undergraduate students in the fields of fisheries science and marine biology.
Get details about the Fisheries New Zealand scholarship
TupuToa Internship Programme
We are a proud major partner of the TupuToa Internship Programme. This is an innovative programme creating pathways for Māori and Pasifika students into careers in the corporate and professional sectors. Each year we welcome a number of TupuToa interns to join MPI for a 3-month internship.
TupuToa seeks to ensure corporate Aotearoa is representative of our country, by developing and empowering our people and building the cultural capability of our partners. TupuToa programmes aim to address the persistent inequalities facing Māori and Pasifika communities and disrupt intergenerational disadvantage.
New Zealand Food Safety Summer Intern Programme
Applications are now open for New Zealand Food Safety interns. You can apply online until 9 August 2026.
If you have any questions, email careers@mpi.govt.nz
The type of intern we were seeking
- Those considering a career in food safety.
- Students who wanted to find out what it’s like to work in the public sector.
- Applicants looking for paid employment over summer.
We sought applications from effective communicators, who loved problem-solving, had excellent attention to detail, and enjoyed building relationships.
We were looking for interns studying for an undergraduate degree in microbiology, biomedical science, food technology, food science, nutrition, toxicology, chemistry, veterinary sciences, environmental/public health, emergency management or a biochemistry degree.
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Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
Ka pū te ruha, ka hao te rangatahi.
— When the old net is cast aside, the new net goes fishing.
Tautua nei mo sou manuia a taeao. (Samoan)
— Serve now for a better tomorrow.