What we look for in a candidate
Connection to culture
Connection to their whakapapa/culture/heritage now, or desire to connect
Commitment (to the Internship Programme)
Sees things through. Willing to commit and participate actively in the Internship Programme.
Achievement
Sets aspirational goals and consistently works towards them;
Motivated to exceed expectations.
Perseverance and Resilience
Determined to reach goals/stick with a difficult task over a long period of time even when confronted by obstacles and challenges.
Humility, Empathy and Respect
Acts in a way that demonstrates the ability to understand another’s point of view. Is respectful in dealings with others and acts with humility (without arrogance).
Initiative
The ability to identify things that need to be done independently and initiate them.
Being willing to act or take charge without being told to.
Strong communication skills
The ability to communicate (written and verbally) in an articulate and confident manner with others.
Flexibility
Open to change and open minded.
Willingness to learn
An orientation towards continued learning. Hunger for and appreciation of opportunities to increase skill, experience and ability.
Ownership
Takes personal responsibility for their circumstances, their strengths and areas for development. Is self-aware and knows what holds them back.
The Process
Tukanga
The TupuToa selection process has been carefully designed to provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate your suitability for the programme and prepare you for success in this and any other selection process.
Step 1: Apply
Applications for the Internship Programme 2021/22 will open on the 22nd of March at 6pm NZT and close on the 30th of April at 6PM NZT.
If you are eligible, you will be invited to take part in our Kokiri Workshops.
Step 2: Kokiri Workshops
These are 1.5 hour workshops focussed on building confidence, developing your CV and cover letter as well as interview preparation to support your application to TupuToa and other organisations.
If you are eligible and have completed the Kokiri Workshops you will be invited to take part in a Video Interview, otherwise you will proceed directly to an interview with your partner organisation.
Step 3: Video Interview
The Video Interview provides you with an opportunity to showcase yourself on camera and will support your application so that the team are able to match you to a suitable internship opportunity.
Step 4: Matching
Behind the scenes the TupuToa Navigators are working hard to match applications to roles within our partner network.
It is important to note that internships are not dictated by TupuToa but by the opportunities created by our partners.
Step 5: Interviews with Partner Organisation
A TupuToa Navigator will contact you to organise a time for you to interview with one of our partner organisations.
Step 6: Pre-Checks
Please note that organisations may require you to undergo a pre-employment background check and/or drug and alcohol test. So be honest when completing your application form.
Step 7: Offers
Successful candidates will be offered a place on the TupuToa Internship Programme. It is important to note that internships are not dictated by TupuToa but by the opportunities created by our partners.
Internship
Most internships commence in November.
Please note: not every applicant is guaranteed an internship.

Past Intern’ Experience
“TupuToa helped me in identifying my strengths and stringing them cohesively for an application process. The team lifted my confidence and are committed to helping you reach your personal goals by successfully placing you with a partner organisation, that is best for you.”
– Lourdaiz Ah Chong, Wealth Management, Forsyth Barr Ltd