Electrical Apprentice

The Whakapapa whānau are a small but ambitious team, running year-round operations on the northern slopes of Mt Ruapehu. In winter, from June until October, this includes a world-class ski area. In summer, from December until April, this includes our summer sightseeing operation, heroing our iconic Sky Waka gondola. Each year we welcome hundreds of thousands of manuhiri (guests) to Whakapapa, many with life-long connections to the maunga (mountain) and surrounding region, some even third or fourth generation.

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Kickstart your electrical career in one of the most unique alpine environments in Aotearoa.

We have an exciting opportunity to join our Maintenance team as an Electrical Apprentice. This junior role is perfect for someone who's keen to learn and develop their electrical skills to become a qualified Electrician, whilst supporting gaining practical experience supporting our qualified Electricians in keeping our lifts, plant, and facilities operating safely and efficiently.

As part of the team, you'll gain practical experience across a wide range of electrical systems, working in an environment where no two days look the same. You'll help make sure our equipment runs smoothly so our guests can enjoy a great day on the maunga.

What you'll be doing...

• Support qualified Electricians with electrical maintenance, installations, testing, and troubleshooting across Whakapapa's lifts, facilities, and plant.
• Assist with repairs, modifications, and upgrades to equipment, ensuring work is completed safely and efficiently.
• Carry out allocated electrical tasks to a high standard, under supervision, and within required timeframes.
• Help with routine checks on electrical systems to ensure safe and reliable operations.
• Work alongside Lift Mechanics and the wider Maintenance team when needed, including:
• Weather or storm-related repairs
• Lift de-icing operations
• Working at heights on lifts and towers
• Participate actively in team meetings, training, and development opportunities.
• Help identify hazards and contribute to a safe and positive work environment.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako ōu | Your skills and experience

No prior electrical experience? No problem We're looking for enthusiastic, dedicated, and positive people ready to earn their Electrical Certification while tackling a challenging, but incredibly rewarding, alpine environment.

Qualifications & Experience

• Enrolled in (or willing to enrol in) a New Zealand electrical apprenticeship.
• NCEA Level 2 (or equivalent), ideally with strong maths and English.
• Practical or trade-related experience is a bonus.
• Experience in ski operations, alpine environments, or similar industries is a plus, but not essential.
• Restricted or Full NZ driver licence.
• Able to pass a colour vision (colour blindness) test.
• Comfortable working at heights (or willing to obtain certification).
• Physically and mentally resilient, able to work in all weather conditions.

Who we're looking for

• Keen to learn, solve problems, and develop technical skills.
• Takes ownership of work, acts with integrity, and asks for help when needed.
• A collaborative team player who adds to a positive team culture and is willing to jump in to support the wider team.
• Committed to safe work practices and hazard awareness.

For more information, please check out the position description

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What we offer

Gear up for the ultimate work adventure at Whakapapa. Joining Whakapapa unlocks a number of perks:

• Dedicated training and development support with your Electrical Apprenticeship and contribution towards costs
• A complimentary season pass for skiing and / or snowboarding, and access to day pass discounts for friends and family
• Free beginner and intermediate group lessons. Don't have equipment? You'll receive discounts on that too
• Exclusive food and beverage, and retail discounts, for use in Whakapapa's cafes and store
• Guaranteed base hours for all full-time and part-time staff
• Priority access and discounts to our on-mountain medical centre services

Your Whakapapa whānau experience is not just a job: you will build lifelong memories and experiences in one of the most beautiful and culturally significant places on earth

Remuneration range is $23.50 to $27.50 p/h base rate

If you're ready to grow your electrical career in a role where you'll learn heaps, work with an awesome team, and experience the mountain in all its moods, we'd love to hear from you.

Tono mai - Apply now and start your apprenticeship journey at Whakapapa.