Internships
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We frequently have opportunities for interns to join the PFK team for short or medium term projects. If you are a student or recent graduate of ecology, plant biology, zoology or environmental science and want to hone your skills working in a conservation nonprofit, please get in touch with us to explore the possibilities.
“I would recommend PFK for anyone who is interested in learning about ecology, the role of stakeholders in conservation, and getting out in the bush.”
“I am confident that the experiences and skills acquired during my time at Pest Free Kaipātiki will serve as a solid foundation for my future career in conservation.”
The Chew Card Citizen Science project is an annual project that requires the help of two to three interns for a three to four month period each May – July. It is suited to environmental science, ecology or conservation students looking for an opportunity to upskill, get real- world experience and work with a local community organisation.
“In addition to hands-on learning, I had the opportunity to develop essential skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication. Sharing my knowledge with younger individuals about chew cards and strategies for protecting native plants in their own environments was particularly rewarding.”
We are also often looking for medium-term or ongoing input from one or two interns to work on our promotions, especially creating social media and video content and campaigns.
“To say my time here at PFK has been enjoyable is an understatement. During my three months here, I have had the privilege to work alongside some truly dedicated people who are genuinely passionate about the work they do.
With 30 hours per week I was able to earn the equivalent to a semester of credits that will help further my college education back home in the states.” [read more]
As a publicly-funded non-profit organisation, we are unable to offer paid internships at this time. All our internships are on a voluntary basis and we devote staff time and resources to make sure the learning and development gained during internships is of high value.
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Testimonials from our past interns
Phoebe - Summer 2023/2024
I had the amazing opportunity to work for PFK as an undergraduate intern in the summer of 2024. I collaborated on several projects over the 3 months, allowing me to explore the different aspects of working in the environmental sector. My main focus was the pekapeka engagement program. This included facilitating community events, creating promotional content, and collaborating with local stakeholders to install artificial bat roosts. I also assisted in PFK’s greening program where I gained experience in fungicide application, field data entry, and community working events. PFK also encouraged me to participate in projects outside of my primary scope to gain an as enriching and collaborative experience as possible. I was able to go on several internship outings to local reserves, Tiritiri Matangi Island, and the Auckland Zoo. I would recommend PFK for anyone who is interested in learning about ecology, the role of stakeholders in conservation, and getting out in the bush.
Clare - Summer 2023/2024
To say my time here at PFK has been enjoyable is an understatement. During my three months here, I have had the privilege to work alongside some truly dedicated people who are genuinely passionate about the work they do. My position was unpaid, however, with 30 hours per week I was able to earn the equivalent to a semester of credits that will help further my college education back home in the states. PFK not only gave me valuable insight on the ins and outs of a nonprofit, but this amazing organisation also gave me the lead on a project that is bringing bait stations into mangroves. I was introduced to new forms of data entry as well as instructed on how to run my own community day. PFK also gave me the opportunity to visit various reserves in the Kaipatiki region to expand my knowledge and explore at my own leisure. Not only this, but I was also able to visit Tiritiri Matangi Island as well as the Auckland zoo. This helped to greatly expand my knowledge on both native and invasive species here in New Zealand. I saw amazing birds like the Morepork, fascinating reptiles like the tuatara, and massive insects like the wetapunga. Weeding and working bees were also a fun way to interact with the local community. I’d highly recommend an internship at PFK to anyone interested in ecology and native bush restoration.
Naomi - Summer 2023/2024
My experience with Pest Free Kaipatiki has been both enriching and educational. Despite entering the organization with limited field experience due to COVID-19 restrictions during my university years, I quickly adapted to the dynamic environment. While my commitment was limited to 20 hours per week, I engaged in a diverse array of projects, gaining invaluable insights into the management of various pest plants and animals, as well as participating in essential monitoring activities across different regions.
In addition to hands-on learning, I had the opportunity to develop essential skills such as problem- solving, teamwork, and effective communication. Sharing my knowledge with younger individuals about chew cards and strategies for protecting native plants in their own environments was particularly rewarding.
Looking ahead, I am confident that the experiences and skills acquired during my time at Pest Free Kaipatiki will serve as a solid foundation for my future career in conservation. Understanding the intricacies of pest management and community engagement will be essential as I continue to contribute to the preservation of New Zealand's biodiversity. Moreover, the exposure to self-directed learning and educational initiatives has deepened my commitment to environmental stewardship and conservation efforts.