MPI Graduate Development Programme 2026 | Wellington City

Job Description

Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Graduate Development Programme

Our Graduate Development Programme includes:

• Two, six-month placement rotations
• Support to transition into an ongoing role at MPI
• Competitive salary of $68,463
• Stakeholder visits
• Ongoing learning and development
• One-to-one mentoring and buddy support

About MPI - Mō te Manatū Ahu Matua

At the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), we're shaping the future of Aotearoa New Zealand's food and fibre sector — and we're looking for passionate graduates to join us on that journey. Our vision is bold: to be the world's most trusted provider of high-value food and fibre products. With over 50 sites across New Zealand and 11 overseas, MPI offers a unique chance to make a real impact — whether you're working in an office, at an international airport, on a fishing vessel, or out on a farm. We're tackling big challenges: doubling export value by 2034, helping farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protecting our borders from pests and diseases, and backing the sector to thrive globally. If you're ready to apply your skills to meaningful work that matters — MPI is the place to start.

Working at Manatū Ahu Matua – MPI and what you can expect from our Graduate Development Programme

You will have the opportunity to work across the Ministry while being able to see the difference you are making in Aotearoa. The variety of work includes areas like biosecurity, forestry, fisheries, food safety, response, regulation, or policy.

You'll have two work rotations of about six months each in different parts of the Ministry. Your first rotation will be in Wellington and the following rotations could be based at one of MPI's offices across New Zealand.

At the end of the 12-month programme, we will support you to transition into an ongoing role at MPI.

You may aspire to be the next leaders of Aotearoa who will ultimately change the way we do things. Our graduate programme will prepare you with the foundation you need to launch your career at MPI.

This is a Wellington-based programme.

There's lots more information here about the programme and career opportunities for graduates.

About You - Mōu

Our staff (kaimahi) are key to the success of MPI – every role is critical to our work helping to protect the taonga and primary industries of Aotearoa. We welcome those who bring different experiences, capabilities, and knowledge to our workplace and our mahi. We are keen to hear from you, and what your motivators, attitudes and passions are, as these will add tremendous value to the MPI whānau.

Successful applicants will have a recent tertiary qualification in:

• Science
• Policy
• International relations
• Economics
• Data science (or related disciplines).

Applicants should have graduated no more than 2 years before the application date, and;

• hold the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it
• be willing to relocate to Wellington
• have a keen interest in the primary industries
• have curiosity and strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• have clear, confident communication skills
• be adaptable, committed and focused on achieving
• have a collaborative working style
• have some work or leadership experience – this could be volunteer work, internships, or supporting sports teams and community groups.

Join one of our information webinars
You can attend one of our information webinars where we'll share important information about MPI's Graduate Development Programme, what to expect, what we're looking for, and the recruitment process. We look forward to connecting with you!

Wednesday 30 July, 10 – 11 AM

Application Process - Tukanga Tono

Applications open: Tuesday 22 July – Tuesday 5 August 2025

Pre-screening video interviews: Mid-August 2025

Written assessment: Late August 2025

Interviews: Early September 2025

Offers made: End of September 2025

Programme begins: End of January 2026

You can use tools like ChatGPT, Claude or Copilot to help tailor your job application, but remember that we want to hear about your personal achievements and lived experiences. Don't fill your CV with jargon and “fluff”, share the learnings and successes you're proud of. These are what we really want to learn about!

How to Apply - Me pēhea te tuku tono

Applications for the 2026 intake open Tuesday 22 July and close Tuesday 5 August 2025 at 11.59 PM.

If you have any questions, please email George Mitrakas: george.mitrakas@mpi.govt.nz

Follow MPI here - Whāia ngā tūhononga ki MPI i konei

Links to Facebook, MPI Careers, LinkedIn, X