The Arts House Trust Summer Internship

The Arts House Trust (AHT) is an independent charitable organisation dedicated to supporting contemporary art in Aotearoa through our nationally significant collection and dynamic exhibition programme.

The Arts House Trust (AHT) Summer Internship Programme

Fixed Term Part Time

Approx. 10-24 hours a week, including evenings and weekends

Now in its tenth year, The Arts House Trust is seeking its next cohort of interns for the Summer Internship Program. This paid opportunity is ideal for students or recent graduates exploring careers in the visual arts. Running from late November 2026 to February 2027, the programme offers hands-on experience at a leading public art gallery and private collection.

The Arts House Trust (AHT) is an independent charitable organisation dedicated to supporting contemporary art in Aotearoa through our nationally significant collection and dynamic exhibition programme.

Key Responsibilities

Interns will gain practical experience across a range of areas, including but not limited to:

• Curating and facilitating a display using works from the AHT Collection

• Front of House, Gallery attendant, Events and Gallery Shop assistance, including engaging with visitors

• Collection care, including artwork handling and processing

• Assisting with gallery installations, including painting and prep work

• Administrative tasks such as maintaining the collection database, library and other archives

• Researching and writing short interpretive texts for Collection works

• Assisting with Public Programming such as Kids Art Club and Whanau Day

• Assisting with marketing and design deliverables as needed

• Developing and presenting a group exhibition with other Intern/s at AHT Gallery at the Pah Homestead in October 2027, either displaying own artwork or curated works from the AHT Collection

Ideal Candidate

This is a training position. We encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every criteria but are enthusiastic and willing to learn.

• A relevant tertiary qualification or demonstrated commitment to fine arts, art history, or curatorial practice

• Experience working in a museum or art gallery

• Physically able to assist with tasks such as moving artworks and painting walls

• Experience with art exhibitions — as an artist, curator, installer, or facilitator

• Strong communication and customer service skills; positive attitude and respectful of diverse audiences

• Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to maintain high level of professionalism

• Proficient in computer skills, including Microsoft Office

• Experience with art research or writing

• Recognition of significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi

What We Offer

• A supportive, creative team environment

• Opportunities to develop professional skills and industry connections

• A chance to contribute to the growth of contemporary art in Aotearoa New Zealand.