2026 Harkness Fellowship applications open
The New Zealand Harkness Fellowships support high potential senior leaders in the New Zealand public sector to spend 3-6 months in the United States, developing ideas, relationships, and insights that strengthen public leadership.
Applications are now open and close 5pm, 21 April 2026.
Up to 2 New Zealand Harkness Fellowships worth up to NZ$60,000 are being offered in 2026 (for travel in mid-late 2026). Recipients must be currently employed in the New Zealand public sector. The length and total value of the Fellowship will be determined by the LDC and the New Zealand Harkness Fellowships Trust, in conjunction with the successful applicant.
The New Zealand Harkness Fellowships aim to:
- reinforce and deepen New Zealand–United States relationships by enabling emerging and established public sector leaders to engage directly with US institutions, peers, and policy environments.
- strengthen the ability of Fellows to lead change and improvement in New Zealand, informed by international learning.
- support the cross-fertilisation of ideas and experience between New Zealand and the United States.
- build and sustain a trans-Pacific leadership network, creating enduring relationships that deliver reciprocal benefit to both countries.
The programme is delivered in partnership with the Leadership Development Centre, acting on behalf of the New Zealand Government.
Learn more and download the application form our on website.