Northland Regional Council’s Summer Student Programme is underway with 18 tertiary students from various educational backgrounds gaining priceless hands-on experience in their respective fields.

Students have joined teams from across council, including Biodiversity, Biosecurity, Climate Action, Land Management, Customer Services, and Finance.

Biodiversity intern Stephanie Membery is enjoying her experience at council, especially the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and put her learning into practice.

“I’ve been studying environmental management at NorthTec and I’m starting a Bachelor of Applied Science majoring in Biodiversity Management. My work at NRC includes monitoring kākahi (freshwater mussel) in urban streams and using this information to develop protocols for local community groups, informing our freshwater and biodiversity work.”

Council’s group manager of corporate services and deputy CEO Bruce Howse says the Summer Student Programme is beneficial to both council and the students.

“I know our teams appreciate the support and different perspectives the students bring. The programme has been running for sixteen years and in that time, we’ve had several students stay on and gain full-time employment at council, so it can be a great way to get your foot in the door.”

NRC also offers its Tū i te ora Scholarship to support students to undertake study, research, or training that relates to council’s regulatory and environmental functions. Scholarship recipients receive financial assistance and paid work experience at council; five of this year’s summer students are scholarship recipients.

Climate Action intern and scholarship recipient Ruby Crawford, who is studying towards a Bachelor of Science majoring in Geography and Environmental Sciences, says the work experience at council has been incredibly beneficial.

“It’s shown me how my studies are applied in real life situations and gives me insight into what jobs are available when I complete my degree. If you get the opportunity to gain experience in your chosen field of work before you finish your degree, I say go for it. NRC is a great place to gain hands-on work if you have passion and interest in the environment.”

Applications for the 2024 round of scholarships open on Friday 26 January.

Those interested in applying are encouraged to visit: scholarships.nrc.govt.nz