Mahi at MFF 2026 – Join Ngā Pakiaka
Are you Māori, aged 14–24, and ready to step into leadership?
Ngā Pakiaka is the Māoriland Film Festival rangatahi leadership roopu, a paid opportunity to gain experience, build confidence and contribute to the 13th Māoriland Film Festival, held in Ōtaki this 24–28 March, 2026
We are welcoming up to 20 rangatahi to join Ngā Pakiaka this year.
No experience is required. We are looking for interest, excitement and a willingness to learn.
What You’ll Do
Ngā Pakiaka members play an important role in delivering the festival. Responsibilities may include:
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Presenting films
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Ticketing and front of house
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Event catering
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Venues support
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Guest services for filmmakers and audiences
What You’ll Gain
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Paid work experience (rostered festival shifts)
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Training
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Leadership development
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Creative industry exposure
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National and international networking
- Mentoring
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A professional reference at the end of the programme
Availability Requirements
This opportunity is based in Ōtaki. Participants must be available for:
Ngā Pakiaka Wānanga: Friday 13 March, 8 am–8 pm
Training Days:
- Thursday 19 March, 8 am–6 pm
- Friday 20 March, 8 am–6 pm
Festival Week: Monday 23 March – Sunday 29 March, 8:30 am – 10 pm
Participants will be rostered onto shifts during festival week and are not expected to work full days.
Sport or other commitments should be communicated at the time of application.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online and close at 11:59pm on 3 March 2026.
An interview forms part of the selection process.
Māoriland is a Māori-led organisation mandated by Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki and guided by Manaakitanga, Koakoa, Ohooho and Kōtahitanga.
If you’re ready to step up, grow your skills and be part of something meaningful in your community, we invite you to apply.
Join Ngā Pakiaka!
Ngā Pakiaka 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Ngā Pakiaka is open to Māori aged 14–24.
How many participants will be selected?
Up to 20 rangatahi will be selected.
Do I need experience?
No experience is required. Training will be provided. We are looking for interest, enthusiasm and reliability.
Is this paid?
Yes. Participants are paid $24 per hour for rostered festival work shifts.
Are training days paid?
Training and wānanga days are part of the programme and attendance is required. Paid hours apply to rostered festival shifts.
What are the required dates?
Participants must attend:
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Ngā Pakiaka Wānanga – 13 March
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Training Days – 19 & 20 March
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Rostered shifts during 23–29 March
Will I work full days during festival week?
No. Participants will be rostered to shifts and are not expected to work full days.
What if I have sport or other commitments?
Please communicate any commitments at the time of application. Rosters will be created with this in mind where possible.
What about school during festival week?
Participants are responsible for organising school leave with their school. A letter will be provided to all participants to support this.
For participants under 16 years of age, written confirmation of authorised school leave must be provided prior to rostered weekday shifts.
Is transport provided?
No. Parents or caregivers are responsible for drop-off and pick-up.
What should I wear?
Participants will be provided with a Ngā Pakiaka t-shirt. Tidy pants or skirts and closed shoes should be worn.
Will there be supervision?
Yes. All participants will be supervised by Māoriland Charitable Trust staff. All staff are vetted.
Is there a contract?
Yes. Participants will sign a participation agreement. School permission is required where applicable.
Will I receive a reference?
Yes. Participants who complete the programme will receive a professional reference.
