Business and Policy Graduates - Emerging Professionals Programme Feb 2026

Business and Policy graduate opportunities
Designed for those who are early in career
Receive mentoring and training from industry-leading professionals
Permanent role based in Auckland or Wellington starting February 2026
Our Emerging Professionals Programme | Te Reanga Pito Mata runs over 24 months with three 8-month rotations within the selected area of specialisation and brings some of the top emerging talent from across the motu together with the best people from NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).
Through the work that you do, you'll get the chance to improve and enhance the transport network and systems across Aotearoa.
On offer is a unique opportunity for you to go places you never expected within our organisation to help deliver our customer promise - a land transport system connecting people, products, and places for a thriving Aotearoa.
We are seeking to appoint at a salary of $61,230 commensurate to skills and experience.
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
Our Emerging Professionals programme offers a unique opportunity to build your career while contributing to the future of transport in New Zealand.
We're looking for graduates with degrees in Business, Public Policy, Law, Economics, Commerce and Finance (Risk and Auditing) to join us across three exciting streams:
Regulatory , Risk , and Ministerial Services .
Depending on your career interests, you'll have the opportunity to rotate through one or more of the following areas:

Regulatory - Rotating within our Regulatory group will see you contributing to the development of transport policy, regulatory frameworks, and strategic initiatives to improve safety, sustainability, and efficiency across the transport network.
You'll gain experience in shaping regulation and making a real impact on the future of transport.
Risk & Assurance - A rotation with our Risk & Assurance team in the Commercial and Corporate group will focus on legislative interpretation, risk management, and legal advisory support.
You'll help guide informed decision-making across the transport sector, working closely with teams who ensure we identify and manage organisational risks effectively.
Ministerial Services - A rotation through our Engagement and Partnerships group will have you working alongside senior advisors and leaders, delivering high-quality, timely advice and services to Ministers, senior leadership, and staff across NZTA.
You'll develop strong communication, analysis, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Ko koe tēnei | About you
To be successful in this role, you will bring:

A bachelor's degree or higher in Business, Public Policy, Law, Economics, Commerce and Finance (Risk and Auditing).
Have graduated within the last three years.
Have a strong interest in government policy, risk, legislation and the legal aspects of transport.
Strong personal and cultural values that drive your performance and commitment.
The desire to collaborate and engage with a broad range of people.
A desire to learn and gain new skills and knowledge.
Natural curiosity around how things are done and how to make things better.
A pro-active approach.
You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori.
You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector.
He aha ngā huanga mōku |What are the benefits for you?
Supportive and experienced people leaders who really want to see you succeed
Flexibility, including a hybrid home and office working opportunity
Growth - access to training, development, and a real opportunity to evolve with the business
5 weeks annual leave + other great benefits
Ko wai mātou | About us
At NZTA, it all starts with our people.
The organisation's performance and success depends on the people who choose to make this a great place to work and make a difference for Aotearoa.
NZTA has a strong future focus, understanding that new technologies and changing customer expectations mean the transport system we know today will not be the one we deliver in ten years' time.
If this sounds like the opportunity for you, submit your CV along with your cover letter detailing your suitability.
For further information, email:
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To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
NZTA is an equal opportunity employer (EOE).
We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values.
Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.
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