Opportunity from Waste Management
Maaori Graduate Programme 2026 – Waikato-Tainui & WM New Zealand
Our two-year Maaori Graduate Programme offers hands-on experience in kaupapa Maaori projects or finance. From iwi engagement and marae noho to strategy and partnerships, you’ll step into a permanent role and help shape WM’s Maaori outcomes.
About Us | Moo Maatou
WM New Zealand is Aotearoa’s leading materials recovery, recycling, and waste management provider, with over 1,600 kaimahi across 70 locations.
We are committed to genuine partnerships with iwi Maaori, supporting cultural capability within our teams, and embedding te ao Maaori into our operations. Our iwi partnerships guide how we plan, consent, and deliver essential infrastructure projects — ensuring tangata whenua perspectives are always at the decision-making table.
About the Programme | Mo te Hootaka
Based in East Tāmaki, our two-year Maaori Graduate Programme begins in February 2026. From day one you’ll step into a permanent role and gain hands-on experience across kaupapa Maaori and organisational projects.
You’ll have the opportunity to:
- Support iwi relationship-building and partnership agreements across Aotearoa
- Participate in site visits and hui with iwi Maaori
- Help implement WM’s Tikanga Maaori Guidelines and Te Reo Maaori training modules
- Coordinate marae noho and waananga with iwi partners
- Contribute to Te Tiriti o Waitangi education and internal resources
- Assist with iwi engagement planning and internal reporting on iwi partnerships
You’ll join one of two exciting pathways:
- Kaupapa Maaori Projects – working alongside our Iwi Commercial Manager and Tumu Tikanga to bring Maaori strategy to life
- Finance – supporting our Finance team and contributing to the wider organisation
Alongside this, you’ll take part in:
- A full induction week with site visits and WM leaders
- Cultural development waananga and internal workshops
- Tailored mentorship with Maaori leaders in the business
At the end of the programme, you’ll transition into a permanent role within WM New Zealand.
What You Will Bring | Ngaa Puumanawatanga Oou
We’re looking for future Maaori leaders — grounded in their identity, committed to iwi development, and ready to make change.
You’ll thrive here if you:
- Are passionate about iwi Maaori aspirations and sustainability
- Have a foundation in te reo Maaori and tikanga (or are committed to strengthening your journey)
- Are a strong communicator and relationship builder
- Are curious, proactive, and adaptable across diverse kaupapa
- Want to uplift whaanau, hapuu, and iwi through meaningful mahi
Areas of Study | Ngaa Akoranga Matua
We welcome graduates with backgrounds in:
- Maaori Development / Indigenous Studies
- Environmental Management / Sustainability
- Commerce / Finance / Economics
- Law / Public Policy / Political Science
- Social Sciences / Education
Eligibility | Ngaa Paearu
- You are Maaori and whakapapa to Waikato
- You are in your final year of study or a recent graduate
- You are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident
- You can commit to the start date of February 2026
What’s in it for You | Noou te Rourou
- A permanent role from day one
- Mentorship from Maaori leaders, including our Iwi Commercial Manager and Tumu Tikanga
- Cultural wānanga, leadership development, and professional training
- Hands-on projects that make a real cultural and environmental impact
Ready to make a difference?
About Waste Management
Waste Management
WM New Zealand is Aotearoa’s leading materials recovery, recycling, and waste management provider, with over 2,000 team members across over 90 locations.
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