Council-Controlled Organisation Aspiring Directors Programme 2026-2027

Tau ake rā te moana nei, e papaki kau ana ki te ākau tangata, kakenga waka ka mauru te tohu ki te arearenga o Mauao, he pou herenga mōu, he pou hononga mōu, kia herea ki te tika, kia herea ki te pono. Kia mau, kia ita, kia ū – haumi e, hui e, tāiki e!

A hands-on 12-month internship to develop future governance leaders.

Gain hands-on board experience, learn alongside experienced directors, and contribute to your community.

Tauranga City Council (TCC) invites applications for its Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) Aspiring Directors Programme. This initiative strengthens governance capability and increases diversity across boards in Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty.

We welcome candidates with diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives, including diversity in age, gender, ethnicity, and thought. We particularly encourage applications from those under-represented in governance, including wāhine/women, rangatahi/young people, Māori, Pacific peoples, ethnic and migrant communities, people with disabilities, and the rainbow/LGBTQIA+ community.

About the opportunity

We have three opportunities for a 12-month voluntary internship with Bay Venues Limited, Tourism Bay of Plenty and, Tauranga Art Gallery Trust.

Bay Venues is the Council's largest CCO and the kaitiaki of more than 20 community facilities, including aquatic centres, indoor sport and fitness facilities, event venues, community centres and halls, Mercury Baypark and Haumaru Sport and Recreation Centre.

Connecting the community through exceptional experiences is the driving force behind this CCO, that has the community at heart.

TBoP has a lead role in ensuring the sustainable growth of the Western Bay of Plenty visitor economy and the management of the region as a visitor destination. TBoP also manages three isite visitor information centres in the Tauranga city centre, Mount Maunganui, and during the cruise ship season at the Port of Tauranga. This CCO is jointly owned by TCC and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

TAGT owns and operates Toi Tauranga Art Gallery on behalf of the residents of Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty, ensuring sound governance and financial management.

This organisation aims to create exceptional art experiences that engage, inspire, challenge and educate through exhibitions, public programmes and events.

What the programme offers

This voluntary internship provides:

• Mentoring from experienced directors
• Council-funded professional development
• Exposure to Board and Council operations
• Opportunities to contribute ideas in a supportive environment
• Networking with board chairs, board members, and elected members, and
• Insight into local government governance.

What you will do

The internship activities include (with Chair approval):

·         Attend monthly CCO board meetings and any additional meetings required

·         Participate actively in board discussions and contribute to work programmes

·         Attend Council meetings, events, and networking opportunities

·         Observe different boards and governance styles, and

·         Take part in governance training (e.g. Institute of Directors’ Governance Essentials, Council’s Te Kete ā Rohe: Cultural Connections).

Who we are looking for

We're seeking a motivated individual who:

• Aspires to serve on boards within the next 2-3 years
• Brings professional, leadership, governance, or sector experience that would add value to TCC’s CCO board environment
• Demonstrates sound judgement, integrity, and an interest in governance and public accountability
• Understands and appreciates the diversity of Tauranga and the Western Bay community
• Can commit approximately 12 hours per month to the programme
• Communicates effectively and builds positive, enduring relationships
• Has the confidence and capability to contribute constructively in a governance environment
• Is willing to actively participate in governance development opportunities throughout the programme, and
• Lives in the Tauranga and Western Bay area.

Key information

·         This is a 12-month voluntary programme starting December 2026.

·         Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in Tauranga in November 2026.

·         If successful, the preferred candidate is subject to mandatory reference and background checks.

·         Applications close 10am Friday, 16 October 2026.

·         Late applications will not be accepted.

·         Eligibility criteria – Reside in the Tauranga / Western Bay area and not a TCC staff member or TCC CCO staff member.

How to apply

1. Obtain employer approval to participate (employer letter to be attached to application).
2. Apply below.

For any enquiries: [email protected]

This is more than an internship – it’s a pathway to future governance leadership. Apply now and help shape a more diverse and inclusive board landscape.

We’re committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those living with disabilities.
If you need any support or adjustments to take part in our recruitment process, please contact  [email protected]

·         You must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

·         Tauranga City Council does not accept unsolicited contact or applications from recruitment agencies. We will not pay fees or commissions related to unsolicited contact.