Start by reading about the role on our website. Apply online, and we’ll be in touch. It might take a week or so due to high volumes.

It depends on the role. If you’re applying to be a Corrections Officer or Instructor, there’s a specific multi-stage process. For other roles, we’ll guide you through what’s involved but it usually includes an interview, referee checks etc.

If it’s been more than 7 days since the job closed and you haven’t heard back, get in touch with the recruitment team. For Corrections Officer roles, it might take a bit longer due to high volumes or operational demands.

If your CV or cover letter won’t upload, try submitting a placeholder file (even a photo works). Then email the correct documents to careers@corrections.govt.nz with your contact details and the job you applied for.

Try resetting your password using the “Forgot Password” link on the login page. If that doesn’t work, your account might be locked. Call 0800 437 668 and the team can help.

Each job advert has a closing date. Try to apply before 5 p.m. on that day to avoid last-minute issues.

We ask for two references - ideally your current or recent manager. We use an online tool called Checkmate to collect feedback. You’ll get an invite to enter your referees’ details.

It’s anything that could affect how you do your job - like working with someone you know, having gang ties, or being involved in a business that deals with Corrections. If you’re not sure, just declare it. We’ll figure it out together.

Yes. Especially if you’re applying for a frontline role. Even if your convictions are covered by the Clean Slate Act, you still need to disclose them.

We’re committed to fairness and inclusion. Everyone - regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, disability, or background – is considered. There’s support for study, career development, and wellbeing too.

Head to the NZ Transport Agency website. If the role needs a New Zealand licence, you’ll need to sort that before you start.

You’ll need a New Zealand Practising Certificate - or at least be in the process of getting one. The Nursing Council website has everything you need.

You’ll need to be registered in New Zealand or have started the registration process. The NZ Psychologists Board has an online tool to check if you’re eligible.

Check out the “Thinking of Moving to New Zealand” page on our careers site. Immigration NZ also has good info on visas, cost of living, and what to expect.

Everyone starts with Ara Tika - a week-long induction at the National Learning Centre in Upper Hutt. We cover travel, accommodation and meals. After that, training depends on your role.

Usually, yes. You’ll just need to let us know about it when you apply. We’ll look at it case by case to make sure it’s safe and won’t cause any issues.

It’s a job preview. You’ll shadow a team member to see what the role is really like and ask questions.

There’s a bunch: free counselling, eye care reimbursements, gym deals, health checks, childcare discounts, retail perks, and more.

If you’ve got a criminal history, gang association, or any potential conflict, you might be asked to fill this out. It helps us assess your application properly.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer questions. Bring notes if it helps. Ask questions. Be yourself. If you need support or accommodations, just let us know.

You’ll get details in your interview invite. Presentations can be verbal, printed, or PowerPoint. Exercises might include writing tasks or case scenarios.

If you’re applying for a frontline role, you might be invited to one. It’s a session with role plays, team exercises, and interviews.

If you move forward, we’ll ask for references. If not, you’ll get feedback. For frontline roles, next steps might include SCOPE, PRA, or medical checks.

We’ve got employee-led networks (like Māori, Pasifika, Rainbow, Disability, etc.) and staff welfare coordinators to support you. You won’t be doing this alone.

Training starts with a week at your site, then five weeks at the National Learning Centre in Upper Hutt. After that, you’ll continue learning on the job for 9–12 months. Travel, accommodation and food are covered during off-site training.

Yes. If you meet Immigration NZ’s requirements and get through the recruitment process, we may be able to support your visa. The role is on the Green List, which can help with residency.

Check out the “Applying for a role at Ara Poutama Aotearoa” guide on the careers site. It covers what we look for and how to write a strong CV and cover letter.

You’ll need to be in New Zealand for some parts of the recruitment process. Don’t book travel until we invite you to an in-person session. Travel costs are your responsibility. If you’re offered a role, we can support your visa application.

It depends. You’ll need to fill out a Supplementary Information Form. Some convictions - especially custodial sentences or serious offences - will usually prevent you from progressing.

Go to careers.corrections.govt.nz and click apply, find the job you’re interested in, and click “Apply for this Job.” You’ll need to create an account with your email address. Fill out the form and hit apply. You’ll get a confirmation screen and an email once it’s submitted.

Sites vary by security level, prisoner type (remand vs sentenced), gender, and specialist units.

• Low security: more freedom and rehab programmes
• High/maximum: tighter controls and monitoring
• Men’s prisons: 15 sites across NZ
• Women’s prisons: tailored programmes, including Mothers with Babies units
• Specialist units: youth, Māori, Pacific, drug treatment, etc.

1. Initial screening and phone call
2. Suitability assessment - online and assessment centre
3. Health, safety and team fit - medical, drug test, PRA, job preview
4. Background checks - references and police vetting
5. Offer - If you're successful, we'll be in touch with a start date and training timeline

You’ll do a Physical Readiness Assessment (PRA). It includes walking, searching, restraint tasks, and rescuing a dummy. You don’t need to be super fit, but you do need to handle the physical demands.

For Corrections Officer roles, it usually takes 6–8 weeks. Other roles vary.

Minimum age is 18. There’s no upper age limit.

Safety is a top priority. Training is thorough, and you’ll have a strong team and the right gear to keep you safe.

No, we can’t consider applicants who’ve served time in prison for custodial roles.