Internship in New Zealand: The FAQs

In general, there is no remuneration for an internship in New Zealand. However, as in other countries, this varies from company to company. If you are lucky enough to get some pocket money from your internship company, it is recommended to apply for an IRD number (tax number) at the Inland Revenue Department. Taxation, even on short-term income, is mandatory in New Zealand. However, the tax number can reduce the tax rate to be paid a little bit.

No special visa is required for a stay of fewer than three months. However, a return flight ticket, which certifies a departure within the three months, is mandatory. If the internship lasts four to six months there is the possibility to apply for a visa at the embassy of New Zealand in advance. However, this is not a tourist visa, as it excludes an activity, i.e. also an internship. You have to apply for a work visa that is valid for more than three months. The Working Holiday Visa allows a stay in New Zealand of up to twelve months. However, the duration of the activity is limited to three months per employer. A further requirement is the proof of a certain amount of money (currently approx. 2200€), as this visa is primarily intended for traveling and not for working. As in Australia, this Working Holiday Visa can only be applied for once in a lifetime and the working hours are usually between 9.00 am and 6.00 pm, but can vary depending on the company and industry.

International health insurance has been mandatory for all international students in New Zealand since 2004. However, this only applies to students who also study in New Zealand. This regulation does not apply to the completion of an internship. However, an International Health Insurance is always a safe investment, as the New Zealand health system is very complicated. A visit to the family doctor costs between NZ$ 40 and 60 (approx. 20 to 30 €) and has to be paid immediately. If you need a specialist, there is no way around the family doctor, as he will issue a so-called "letter of recommendation", with which you can get an appointment. Otherwise, it can also take a little longer. The costs for this visit to the doctor are approximately NZ$ 120 to 200 (60 to 100 €).

The cost of living in New Zealand is similar to that in Germany but usually cheaper. Of course, this depends on your own consumer behavior. One should calculate between 400 and 600 € for accommodation, transport, and food per month. This corresponds to approximately NZ$ 1000.

Like almost everywhere else in the world, you can easily withdraw money with your credit card in New Zealand from VISA, Master Card, American Express, Eurocard, or Diners Club. However, every cash withdrawal is subject to a fee of up to 2 to 3 percent of the total amount. There is also the possibility for students to open a bank account at a local bank in New Zealand as there are special rates. Another possibility is the Deutsche Kreditbank, with whose credit card you can withdraw money abroad for free. But basically, one should not limit oneself to only one form and maybe also have some Traveller's Cheques with one.

No special vaccinations are required for New Zealand. The usual vaccinations like diphtheria and tetanus should be sufficient. However, we often recommend a hepatitis vaccination. It is always best to check with your family doctor.

The recreational opportunities in Auckland are many and varied. Whether it's surfing, bungee jumping, relaxing in one of the many parks or attending a cultural or sporting event. Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, also offers a wide range of activities thanks to its multicultural population. The area around Auckland also offers a lot. The Waitakere Nature Reserve is only half an hour away from Auckland. The Hauraki Gulf, which is home to many small islands, also offers a good reason for a trip to the area.