Frequently Asked Questions

We have put together this FAQ page to answer the most common questions from applicants and the general public about the Ethnic Communities Graduate Programme. If you have questions that are not covered below, please send them to graduateprogramme@ethniccommunities.govt.nz and we will reply as soon as possible.

Would I be able to apply on a work visa?

If your work visa is valid for the entire 18-month programme placement, your application will be considered. We will need evidence of the validity of the visa.

Where are the locations of the jobs available?

At this stage, all placements will be based in Wellington.

Will it be online or onsite work?

The placement will be a 40-hour, full-time, paid work placement based onsite.

Where can we access the application form for the Ethnic Communities Graduate Programme?

Applications for the Ethnic Communities Graduate Programme are now closed.

Would the programme lead to permanent employment?

This will be at the discretion of the host agency, but we are committed to working with each host agency to identify employment opportunities for our graduates after their 18-month placements.

Is there an age limit?

There is no age limit for applying to the Ethnic Communities Graduate Programme.

Will the host agencies be involved in recruiting the candidates in any capacity?

Yes. Some host agencies will be involved in the recruiting process. You will be notified of this should you get through to the next stage of the selection process.

What kind of support will I have during the Ethnic Communities Graduate Programme?

Graduates will be supported by the Ministry for Ethnic Communities' Graduate Programme Team with an 18-month training programme and by their host agency team with on-the-job training.

Can I work for 3-4 days and travel back home for the remainder of the week?

Flexible working is at the discretion of the host agency. 

Will successful candidates be able to choose their mentors?

We will work with the successful candidates to ensure that we get a suitable mentor for them during their placements.

What are the key attributes/skills you are looking for?

To be successful in this programme you will:

• Have skills in problem-solving, communicating, and building and maintaining strong professional relationships;
• be a team worker;
• be action-oriented;
• strive for excellence; and
• demonstrate the functional and technical skills required for the job.

What does the recruitment process involve?

• Completion of an online application form, providing necessary documentation.
• Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend a panel interview.
• Reference check.
• Criminal history check.
• Host agencies may have additional checks to be completed.

Will our GPAs be considered?

GPAs are important, but your ambitions, skillset, experiences and commitment to public service will be the key considerations.

Are there other avenues for members of ethnic communities who have been here for years?

There are other early in career programmes (graduate and internship) available that take graduates from all levels.

Here is a list from the Public Service Commission’s website(external link).

The following websites provide information about graduate and internship programmes across both the public and private sectors:

gradnewzealand.nz(external link)

nxtstep.co.nz(external link)