1. Where will I undertake my placement? On a family run farm in locations such as Northland, The Hawkes Bay, The Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Taranaki, The Manawatu, Wairarapa, Nelson / Marlborough, Canterbury, The West Coast or Central / Southern Otago.

2. What types of farms are available? We have most types of farms available in New Zealand including Livestock Farm (growing animals e.g. Sheep & Beef), Dairy Farm (milking cows),
Horse Farm (training and developing horses for show-jumping, polo or racing (for very experienced riders ),
Family Farm (I do not mind what the family do so long as it is a friendly family environment)

3. Can I specify the type of farm I want to be placed at? Yes, you can certainly tell INTERNeX what particular style of farm you would prefer however depending on the season and availability your request may not be possible.

4. What are the best times to come to a farm in New Zealand? Placements are available all year round. However, the best time of year to stay on a farm is from September to April.

5. When can I arrive at the farm? Farmstay placements start weekly on a Tuesday (excluding period between the 5th December – 15th January). On some occasions you may need to spend some additional nights at the hostel if your host family require you to arrive later. You are responsible for any costs for food and accommodation etc during this time.

6. What if I want to travel when I first arrive in New Zealand? You must let INTERNeX know if you would like to travel prior to starting your farm placement so we can delay your start date and let your host family know.

7. How many hours per day will I work? You will generally work 24 hours per week on the farm and help with an additional 10 hours of domestic / household duties. You may negotiate with the family to work longer.
8. What I am I expected to do on the farm? There is a lot of work to do on the farm and it can change week to week, month to month, year to year. You will discuss what is required of you with the family at the start of your placement an throughout your time at the farm. Jobs may include mending and building fences and mowing the lawns, feeding the animals, spraying the weeds, moving cattle, gardening, painting, milking the cows, mucking the stables etc. You will be given a detailed list of what will be included in your placement.

9. What type of domestic / household chores will I help with? Domestic / household chose include everyday chores that are required in any household; for example; preparing and cooking meals, cleaning and washing your clothes, vacuuming, keeping your bedroom and living areas tidy, going grocery shopping, washing the car, feeding the pets, general gardening etc.

10. How long am I expected to stay at the farm? Those who are taking the program as a cultural experience can apply for a 4 – 12 week stay. Those with experience with horses or farming can apply to stay for 4 – 24 weeks (subject to the maximum time allowed on visa). Those wishing to extend their stay should contact INTERNeX and with approval from their farm host an extension can be arranged.

11. What kind of people are you looking for? Outgoing, sociable, good at communicating with others and those who really want to learn about the New Zealand Farm life. Some families require a certain skill set such as horse-riding experience or ability to use a tractor etc. Some families require no experience. Most of all families want happy people.

12. Can I go with a friend or partner? In some situations it may be possible to be placed with a friend, however hosts tend to prefer only one farm intern at a time. In these situations INTERNeX will try to place friend within 100kms of each other and if possible we recommend couples/friends purchase a car so you can organise to catch up on weekends and days off.

13. What happens if I am not offered a placement? If you are not offered a position you will be offered a full refund.

14. What if I am offered a placement I don't want? We make every attempt to make sure the placement meets your requests based upon your experience and what is available in New Zealand, therefore, unfortunately if you are offered a placement and do not wish to accept it there are no refunds.

15. What if I want to leave the farm? We expect all Interns to go through a period of home sickness in the first month or so of the placement and expect a period of adjustment in this time. After this first month if you believe the placement is not what you expected, you must contact INTERNeX and explain the situation. This can be over the phone but we must also receive this in writing via email. If there is a valid reason for wanting to change locations for valid reasons (e.g. the family does not include you in any family activities) then INTERNeX will undertake due diligence with the farm to ensure that the reason for change is valid. If the reason is valid then placement search will begin. When a suitable placement has been found then INTERNeX will inform the farm and arrange for you to move location. If the reason for the request for change is not valid then there will be no replacement. Whatever you do ALWAYS speak to INTERNeX before you make any decisions. If you quit without following these steps INTERNeX will not offer any support or replacement. Please note a replacement farm can take up to 3 weeks.

16. What happens if the farmer asks me to leave? If you asked to leave for good reason, e.g. taking the horse or motorbike without asking, then INTERNeX holds no responsibility for finding you another position or any other support; however if you are asked to leave for no good reason we will support you into a new position. This replacement can take up to 3 weeks and during this time farm interns will often go off and do some travel.

17. What weather can I expect during the season? The South Island is generally colder than the North Island; however New Zealand summers are typically mild across the country. Temperatures may reach 30 degree celsius but on average it is about 25 degrees. New Zealand winters are much colder in the South Island with temperatures reaching -5 degrees but in general the temperature stays above zero. Temperatures generally staying above 5 degrees in the winter in the North Island. Typically expect temperatures from 10 degrees to 30 degrees depending on the season. Note, houses in New Zealand may not have as much insulation or central heating as you are used to so when it is cold outside it may be cold inside.

18. When should I apply for the program? At least 8 weeks prior to your start date, INTERNeX are happy to accept applications up to 4 weeks prior to the start date on special request.

19. When will I receive my placement? At least 2 weeks prior to the start date of your placement.

20. Will I need to take out travel insurance? Yes, it is compulsory for all foreign applicants to purchase travel insurance covering them for the duration of your employment and that the insurance covers accidents in the work-place. If you are hoping to ride a horse while you are in New Zealand ensure your travel insurance covers this for any injury.

21. What do I do when I arrive in New Zealand? INTERNeX provides airport transfers to downtown hostels for short term stays in Auckland or transfers to Homestay (if you are studying). You will have an orientation on the next business day after arrival.

22. Will I need a bank account and tax number? Yes, you will be required to open a New Zealand bank account and apply for an Inland Revenue Department Number. The INTERNeX team will assist you with this as part of your arrival orientation. Please bring your passport, work permit, bank statement with your home residential address on it and evidence of your tax number from your home country. Without these we cannot open your bank account.

23. How far is it from Auckland to the farms? New Zealand takes about 24 hours to bus from one end to the other, so it depends on where in New Zealand you are placed. Options include direct bus, backpacker bus or flying. We will let you know the best way to get to the farm. We will arrange for the famer to pick you up from the nearest bus station to the farm.

24. How much does it cost to get to the farm? This will depend on the location of the farm and your mode of transport e.g. bus, train, airplane etc. Therefore it may cost between $50 and $200.

25. Where do I stay while I am at the farm? Most farmers will have a spare room in the farm house. In some cases the farmer will have a recreational vehicle, an additional house or an outhouse (sleepout) area where you will sleep. Some horse farms there are grooms quarters where you may sleep and eat.

26. What things do I need to bring for my accommodation? Prior to your departure INTERNeX will provide you with a packing list itemising the standard gear that you will need to pack. In most cases the farmer will have bedding for you. You will be required to have own riding gear. Pack any required medication to last throughout your entire stay in New Zealand.

27. What clothes should I bring? Clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, as well as strong comfortable footwear. New Zealand sun is very hot as we have very little Ozone layer so make sure you bring a hat and sunglasses and wear sunscreen. You may want to bring riding helmet and boots but make sure they are very clean so they pass customs on arrival to New Zealand. When packing these in your suitcase you need to ensure they are very clean and keep them at the top of your case as New Zealand customer are very strict and will take them out to check them.

28. Will I get time away from the farm? Yes, this is possible, it must be negotiated with your family in advance.

29. Can I use the farm equipment? Use of farm equipment is always to the discretion of the farmer.

30. Is food included? Yes, you will be included in family meals and you will be expected to help in the kitchen and contribute with the cooking. If you want any snack food such as chocolate, coke, potato chips you will need to purchase this yourself. In regards to alcoholic drinks you must have permission from your host family to bring this to the farm, and also at your own expense. Any special dietary requirements, eg. Almond milk or gluten free bread are at your own cost.

31. Am I allowed to take a farmstay if I am vegetarian or vegan? You must be open to being on a non meat producing farm. You must be flexible and willing to put in additional effort in the kitchen to ensure your host family are not inconvenienced by your way of eating. It is most important that you help to make dinner and still eat with you host family, as dinner time is the ideal time to relax and get to know each other better by talking about your home, family. If there is certain food that you require outside of the staple diet and standard items of food in the families kitchen, then you are required to pay for this yourself. The family is not required to pay for any additional food to support your way of eating if it differs to theirs.

32. If I am vegetarian or vegan what type of farm can I stay on? If you are vegetarian or vegan you must be willing to stay on horticultural farm, organic farm or non animal farm. If you are a very experienced horse rider then you may be able to go to a farm with horses. This will be discussed in depth during your interview with the placement supervisor.

33. Can I do other INTERNeX programs before or after my farm placement? Yes, so long as you have the necessary work permits, visas, and are applicable to the program.

34. Can I stay in New Zealand after the end of my contract? You can stay in New Zealand for as long as your work permit allows. Visas cannot be extended except under very strict conditions.

Program Acceptance

• Prior to program start, participants are required to submit:
• Proof of valid medical insurance coverage
• Copy of the first page of a valid passport
• Resume and cover/motivation letter in digital format
• All application documents (FAQ’s policies, questionnaires)
• Employer references, translated into English if necessary
• Criminal background check
• 3 photos (1 casual, 1 passport, 1 in appropriate environment pertaining to placement; e.g. with animals, working, etc)

2. Participants must be the required age to obtain a suitable working visa for the country they are seeking to travel to.

3. Participants may have a qualifying interview in person or via a teleconferencing tool such as Zoom or Skype.

4. Participants must have a minimum level of English ability to be accepted (requirements vary by program).

5. Acceptance is at the discretion of Internex.

6. Internex is not responsible for any issues and or costs pertaining to Immigration documentation including permit or visa denials.

Program Process

7. Concerning programs for which participants are remunerated; fees are not for “placement” but for the “program” which includes initial consultation with Internex, post arrival orientation, accommodation recommendations/arrangements, ongoing support and other services outlined in the Program Manual. Positions where participants are remunerated are ultimately secured by the participant.

8. Internex will recommend host organisations that may offer opportunities for placement based on the participants profile.

9. Internex will assist participants until a placement opportunity is secured by the participant.

9.1 Internex does however reserve the right to discontinue the search at any time.

10. Interviews are not necessary for all placement opportunities.

11. Placement opportunities may be secured before or after arrival.

12. Participants will receive a confirmation of placement offer from the Host organisation or Internex whence secured.

13. Participants are required to keep Internex informed during the placement search progress and when an opportunity is secured.

Placement Opportunities

14. All placement opportunities must be in accordance with Federal and Provincial or Regional Labour Laws.

15. Opportunities may be full or part-time; exact hours vary depending on the individual placement opportunity.

16. Specific conditions of opportunities cannot be guaranteed.

17. Participants must follow policies, procedures and practices and behave as responsible professionals at all times.

18. In some situations, delays with the start date or the timing of certain aspects of a program may occur.

19. Internex is not responsible for incidents, accidents or misconduct caused by any third party organisations.

20. Any transgression of the organisation’s policies, procedures, or practices (including unwarranted absences without a doctor’s note) may result in the immediate termination of a placement.

21. Placements may be terminated at any time for cause (e.g. poor performance, misrepresentation of skills/education, lack of punctuality, unexpected absences, inability to perform activities, etc.).

22. If participants are dismissed for cause or for transgressing any host or Internex policies, Internex support will cease.

23. Internex may contact Immigration or other governmental authorities if a participant is fired with CAUSE.

24. Internex may cancel any participant’s program if they believe they have broken laws or for misconduct.

25. If participants are dismissed for any above reasons, Internex, or any of its subsidiary brands, holding companies, partners or affiliations are not liable in any way.

26. If a participant’s program includes a work permit based on a study program, all study requirements including reporting requirements must be completed. Internex will inform hosts and Immigration where the requirements are not met on a continuing basis.

Ongoing Support

27. Participants should attempt to resolve any concerns, issues, or difficulties directly with the Organisation.

28. Participants must inform Internex immediately of any difficulties, issues, or concerns.

29. If difficulties, concerns, or issues continue, the participant must outline in writing the continuing issue(s) of concern, and the efforts that the participant has made to resolve the issue(s).

30. Internex will make every effort to assist in resolving any issues.

Ending a Program Early or Changing a Program

31. If a continuing issue remains unresolved a participant should inform Internex in writing that they wish to depart their host organisation indicating reasons and the date of departure.

32. Internex will support participants in arranging alternative opportunities only if at least 70% of their program remains.

33. If a position with a host organisation is terminated for an invalid reason, continuing support is not guaranteed.

34. If a participant would like to finish their program early, they should inform Internex and host 4 weeks before the planned end date and receive written consent from their host.

35. If a host terminates an opportunity for an invalid reason, Internex will support the participant in obtaining another opportunity. This opportunity may be a variation of the original booking.

Other Specifications

36. Internex is not responsible for any third party fees or refunds, including tuition fees.

37. Internex has the right to change or cancel any of its programs or services at any time and will offer alternative arrangements if possible; if alternatives are not possible a partial refund of funds received for the cancelled or altered service will be offered.

38. Participants are representing Internex while they are on our programs and cannot participate in any activity that negatively impacts Internex, its host organisations or any other participants.

39. The terms of these policies and procedures supersede any oral agreements made between the participant and a member of Internex staff, or any oral statement made by any Internex staff.

40. Internex is not responsible for any indications or agreements made by any of its international agents, partners, universities, or organisations in regards to what is included in any Internex program.

41. All Participants must strictly adhere to these policies and procedures. Any transgression by the participant of any Internex Program policies, procedures, host organisation policies, procedures or related practices will result in the immediate ejection of the participant from the program with no refund of placement fees. Internex reserves the right to pursue legal action or seek compensation in terms of damages from the participant in extreme cases of policy transgression.



Payment and Refund Policies

1. Each program fee entitles a candidate to a single internship, work or volunteer placement.
2. Candidates are required to pay all fees to their agent.
3. Placements will be made at least 4 weeks prior to start date, unless otherwise agreed.
5. After a candidate has been accepted, if they wish to cancel, Internex will withhold a portion of fees as follows.
5.1 After application: application fee
5.2 After Internex consultation arranged: application fee + 25% of remaining program fees.
5.3 After host interview arranged: application fee + 50% of remaining program fees
5.4 After placement opportunity offered: No refund

6. In the following cases a candidate will receive no refund:
6.1 If a candidate misses two scheduled host interviews without a valid reason (i.e. doctor’s note or 48 hours-notice).
6.2 A candidate cancels their program without a valid reason after they have started their placement.
6.3 A placement is cancelled by the host for cause or due to candidate misconduct.
6.4 A candidate misrepresents themselves, breaks any laws or harms the reputation of Internex, or the host.

7. Placements may be secured by a participant completely on their own or through Internex's recommendations.

8. Ranchstay, Farm Volunteer and Homestay weekly fees are due in full for the whole period of stay at the time placement fees are paid.

8.1 Participants are required to give 30 days written notice of early departure to be eligible for a refund of Ranchstay, or Homestay

9. Other fees

9.1 Internex is not responsible for refunds from any third parties that participants may be involved with during their time on an Internex program; including:
• Immigration or any government fees
• Airfares or other travel or tour bookings
• Hostel, hotel, or staff accommodation bookings
• Insurance policy fees
• Staff Accommodation fees
• Travel Insurance, Medical Insurance, Liability insurance
• Union or other costs related to the host organisation

10. Internex is not responsible for any additional costs related to the completion of a placement including:
• Staff uniforms, shoes or other equipment
• International, national or regional travel requirements
• Any other fees or costs



Payment and Refund Policies

1. Each program fee entitles a candidate to a single internship, work or volunteer placement.
2. Candidates are required to pay all fees to their agent.
3. Placements will be made at least 4 weeks prior to start date, unless otherwise agreed.
5. After a candidate has been accepted, if they wish to cancel, Internex will withhold a portion of fees as follows.
5.1 After application: application fee
5.2 After Internex consultation arranged: application fee + 25% of remaining program fees.
5.3 After host interview arranged: application fee + 50% of remaining program fees
5.4 After placement opportunity offered: No refund

6. In the following cases a candidate will receive no refund:
6.1 If a candidate misses two scheduled host interviews without a valid reason (i.e. doctor’s note or 48 hours-notice).
6.2 A candidate cancels their program without a valid reason after they have started their placement.
6.3 A placement is cancelled by the host for cause or due to candidate misconduct.
6.4 A candidate misrepresents themselves, breaks any laws or harms the reputation of Internex, or the host.

7. Placements may be secured by a participant completely on their own or through Internex's recommendations.

8. Ranchstay, Farm Volunteer and Homestay weekly fees are due in full for the whole period of stay at the time placement fees are paid.

8.1 Participants are required to give 30 days written notice of early departure to be eligible for a refund of Ranchstay, or Homestay

9. Other fees

9.1 Internex is not responsible for refunds from any third parties that participants may be involved with during their time on an Internex program; including:
• Immigration or any government fees
• Airfares or other travel or tour bookings
• Hostel, hotel, or staff accommodation bookings
• Insurance policy fees
• Staff Accommodation fees
• Travel Insurance, Medical Insurance, Liability insurance
• Union or other costs related to the host organisation

10. Internex is not responsible for any additional costs related to the completion of a placement including:
• Staff uniforms, shoes or other equipment
• International, national or regional travel requirements
• Any other fees or costs