Growing Māori Talent in Geothermal & Energy Science 

Earth Sciences New Zealand (ESNZ), formed from the merger of NIWA and GNS Science, is a leading research organisation advancing sustainable use of New Zealand’s land, marine, freshwater, energy, and mineral resources. Through innovative science and technology, ESNZ enhances resilience to natural hazards and climate change, supports biodiversity and ecosystem stewardship, and drives economic growth across six mission areas: Geological Hazards, Weather and Climate Hazards, Energy, Land and Freshwater, Climate and Weather, and Oceans.

As part of our commitment to growing Māori capability in science and research, ESNZ is offering a graduate internship opportunity for a recent Māori science graduate (BSc, BE, BEngTech, MSc). Co-hosted by Te Kūwaha, ESNZ's Māori Environmental Research team, and ESNZ's Energy Mission Programme, this internship will provide practical experience working on projects that support New Zealand's geothermal and renewable energy sector.

This internship is designed to build capability in energy research while providing opportunities to contribute to projects that have environmental, economic, and community benefits for Aotearoa and Māori.

Internship Highlights

• Gain exposure to New Zealand's world-leading geothermal energy sector and the role it plays in supporting a low-emissions future.
• Work alongside leading geothermal scientists, engineers, and researchers on real-world projects.
• Develop skills in environmental monitoring, data analysis, field investigations, and energy systems research.
• Learn how geothermal resources are explored, assessed, and sustainably managed.
• Gain an understanding of the connections between geothermal development, Māori aspirations, environmental stewardship, and economic development.
• Receive mentoring and professional development support from experienced researchers and Māori scientists.
• Build networks across ESNZ and the wider geothermal and energy sector. 

What You’ll Do

The internship project will be tailored to the successful applicant's skills, interests, and background. Potential activities may include:

• Supporting geothermal monitoring and research programmes.
• Analysing environmental, geological, geophysical, or geochemical datasets.
• Contributing to projects focused on geothermal resource assessment and sustainable management.
• Assisting with fieldwork, data collection, and reporting.
• Exploring how energy research can support Māori communities, iwi, and regional development aspirations.
• Working alongside multidisciplinary teams to address real-world challenges in renewable energy and resource management.

Location & Duration

• This internship will preferably be based in Taupō/Wairakei or Wellington where ESNZ has significant geothermal and energy research activity.
• This is a 12-month full-time fixed-term internship, commencing in November 2026 (negotiable).

Who Should Apply

We encourage applications from Māori graduates who are passionate about science, energy, environmental sustainability, and creating positive outcomes for Aotearoa.

Applicants may have qualifications in areas such as: Earth Sciences, Geology, Geophysics, Environmental Science, Engineering, Data Science, Geography, Environmental Management, Chemistry, Physics.

Previous experience in geothermal research is not required. We are looking for individuals who demonstrate curiosity, strong analytical thinking, a willingness to learn, effective communication skills, and an interest in building a career in science, research, or the energy sector.

For information on how to apply email: Darcel.Rickard@earthsciences.nz