Whakapiri Mahi
Connecting Learning to Industry

Giving rangatahi the chance to explore real workplaces, learn from professionals,
and take their first steps into meaningful careers.

What is Whakapiri Mahi?  

Whakapiri Mahi is our Employer Engagement and Work Experience Programme at Native Tech.
It connects rangatahi (young people) with local businesses and organisations to experience the world of work in a safe, supportive way.

We offer two types of opportunities:

  • Shadow Roles (2–5 days)
    Short placements where Level 3 learners observe professionals, ask questions, and gain a first-hand understanding of what the job is like. These roles are unpaid and focus on exposure and learning.

  • Intern Roles (2 days to several months)
    Practical, hands-on roles where young people contribute to projects and build workplace skills.
    Placements longer than one month are paid at least the current New Zealand training wage.

For Employers

By opening your workplace, you’ll:

  • Share your industry knowledge and inspire the next generation.
  • Build relationships with emerging talent in your sector.
  • Showcase your organisation as a supportive place to work.
  • Connect with motivated young people who could become future employees.

You decide the role type, duration, and skills required. We’ll support you with pastoral care, simple paperwork, and ongoing communication.

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For Rangatahi

This is your chance to step into the world of work and explore your future career.


Through our programme you will:

  • Gain real-world experience and insights into industries that interest you.
  • Learn directly from people already working in the field.
  • Build confidence, skills, and networks for your career journey.
  • Receive support from the DNA education and pastoral care team.
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How it works

  • Sign up – Employers and rangatahi complete a short online form.

  • Match – We pair rangatahi with suitable employers based on skills, interests, and goals.

  • Placement – Rangatahi spend time in a shadow or intern role, supported by a mentor and our pastoral care team.

  • Feedback – Both employer and rangatahi share feedback to help us keep improving the programme.

Sign up now

EMPLOYER REGISTRATION
RANGATAHI SIGN-UP

Got a question or want to speak to someone? Email [email protected] and we will be in touch.