How to apply

1. Review: the application requirements and selection criteria detailed below.
   
2. Ask us: Do you have questions about the selection criteria or application process? Email us at rez.gardi@auckland.ac.nz to set up a time to speak with someone directly.
3. Check: Does your application include all three of the required sections?
     - Skills based application form (completed online)
     - Two letters of recommendation
     - Values and Approach statement (Max 500 words)
4.  Send your two letters of recommendation and values and approach statement to caprs@auckland.ac.nz with your full name by 11:59pm on Monday 21 April 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
5. Wait for us to contact you. All shortlisted  applicants will be asked to attend an interview during the week of Monday, 12 May - Friday. 16 May. 

For a detailed application process, a full position description, and to learn more information about the work of the NZRAP, please download: ‘NZRAP Recruitment 2025’

Essential criteria

Successful candidates will have:

• Have lived experience of forced displacement (held refugee status, sought asylum, or resettled in New Zealand).
• Demonstrate leadership or community organising experience in a refugee-led or refugee-serving organisation in New Zealand or internationally.
• Show active engagement in refugee policy discussions and refugee networks.
• Contribute to NZRAP’s demographic, regional, age, and gender diversity.
• Commit to a minimum of 10 hours per month for a 24-month term (2025–2027)
• Demonstrate strong English communication skills including reading, writing, and participating actively in discussions. While the NZRAP values linguistic diversity, members must be able to engage effectively in written and verbal communication.
• Bring thematic expertise to NZRAP, such as (but not limited to*):
  • Gender issues; Education; Economic inclusion; Protection; Resettlement; Research; Law and policy

*NZRAP is currently advocating for refugee family reunification, advising government on resettlement policies with a focus Meaningful Refugee Participation (MRP), and strengthening refugee participation in global forums. New members may contribute to these efforts while also bringing their own expertise and priorities to shape NZRAP’s work.

Desirable criteria 

• Experience engaging with government agencies, international networks, or advocacy initiatives.
• Ability to work collaboratively across different cultural and professional environments.  

• Skills based application form - completed online
• Two letters of recommendation that speak to:
  • Letters should address: How you meet the selection criteria; Why you would be a good candidate for the NZRAP
  • Letters should focus on skills and experience rather than personal details.  
• Values and Approach Statement (Submitted with application but only reviewed if shortlisted) of maximum 500 words that details:
  • Understanding of refugee community needs.
  • Approach to representation and accountability.
  • How their values align with NZRAP’s role and commitment to Meaningful Refugee Participation (MRP).

How long will NZRAP members serve?

• Panel members will serve for two years.
• To improve continuity, a staggered approach to future appointments is being considered.

How much will NZRAP members be paid?

• Panel members will be paid an Honorarium in line with the Fees Framework for compensation of individuals on government advisory groups, as outlined by Cabinet.

How will NZRAP members be appointed?

• Applicants will need to show how their experience and skills meet the selection criteria.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview.

For further details about recruitment and the NZRAP download ‘NZRAP Recruitment 2025’

Below is a simple timeline of the application process for the NZRAP. The dates listed below are only tentative outline. If you are interested in applying but are unsure about these dates and your capacity (due to school, work, family, or community commitments for example) please complete your application and simply let us know if you have any concerns or questions.

The first meeting and orientation for new panel representatives has been re-scheduled for early July 2025. 

Do you have questions about the application process? Contact rez.gardi@auckland.ac.nz