The Sport NZ Graduate Programme is a paid, two-year fixed-term opportunity, initially based at the Sport NZ Wellington office before moving into two sector placements in year two. The successful graduates begin their full-time programme with Sport NZ in mid-late January; the year following their recruitment.

Year 1

Graduates select a mentor within Sport NZ, and spend the year immersed in mahi across various Sport NZ teams. With guidance from their mentor, graduates will build their knowledge and understanding of the current play, active recreation and sport system as well as identity areas of interest and priorities for their development.

In year 1, graduates can expect to:

• Develop a personalised work plan alongside their mentor, identifying future goals and areas for professional development.
• Work on a variety of Sport NZ projects and initiatives, with opportunities to provide meaningful contributions.
• Take part in leadership opportunities throughout the year. (E.g. as project lead, facilitating and directing working groups, presenting at public speaking opportunities, attending professional development opportunities.)
• Attend Sport NZ led hui and sector-facing events to build networks and connections across the sector.
• Select placement opportunities for year 2, with support from their mentor and other Sport NZ staff.
• Have one on one sessions with their dedicated GET mentor

Year 2

Graduates have opportunities to take part in two different placements, at organisations within sector. These may be National Sport Organisations, Regionals Sports Trusts, Māori He Oranga Poutama Partners, local council or Iwi Authority, or any other organisation that contributes to broader physical activity outcomes in Aotearoa New Zealand. These placements are chosen by the graduate and may be based on the graduate’s year 1 experiences, with the aim to further explore areas of interest and opportunities for professional development. Graduates remain connected to their Sport NZ mentors throughout their placements, with ongoing guidance and support.

In year 2, graduates can expect to:

• Take part in two placements of their choosing, either within Sport NZ partner organisations, or organisations within the broader physical activity sector.
• Continue regular check-ins with their mentors to ensure the mahi on their placements is aligned to their personalised work plan.
• Stay connected to Sport NZ through attending Sport led hui and sector facing events