Summer Clerk Programme

Overview

Take your first step into a career that matters. At Parry Field Lawyers, we are committed to fostering the next generation of legal professionals. Each year, we welcome law students into our Summer Clerk Programme, designed to provide hands-on experience and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution within our team.

As a summer clerk with us, you won’t just be observing. From day one, you’ll gain real-world experience, working alongside our solicitors, associates, and partners on client matters. You’ll be involved in legal research, drafting documents, attending client meetings, and will support active matters.

We have opportunities available in the following teams:

• Litigation (including Civil, Family, and Employment)
• Property and Commercial
• Migrant and Immigration (candidates fluent in Mandarin/Cantonese and English welcomed)
• Impact

Programme Details and Key Dates

Applications for our 2026/2027 Summer Clerk Programme have now closed.

The Programme starts mid-November 2026 and runs through until mid-February 2027.

Based in our Christchurch CBD, Riccarton, or Hokitika offices.

What to expect

• Meaningful work: You’ll be actively involved in client matters, gaining first-hand insight into different areas of law.
• Support & mentorship: Our senior lawyers, associates and partners will guide you, ensuring you receive valuable learning opportunities.
• A commitment to: Work-life balance, a competitive salary with paid holiday over the Christmas period. Inclusion into our firm’s social and Christmas events.
• A collaborative team environment: Work in specialised teams that share their expertise, in order to deliver the best outcomes for our clients.
• Networking opportunities: Build relationships with experienced legal professionals and expand your professional network.
• Training and development opportunities: Join the team for training sessions, webinars and workshops. Have exposure to different areas of law that may interest you.
• A pathway into your legal career: Many of our summer clerks go on to secure full-time roles with us after graduation.

Who should apply

We’re seeking driven and high-achieving law students who:

• Excel in research, communication, and teamwork
• Show a strong desire to learn, grow, and contribute within a collaborative and fast-paced legal environment
• Currently in your penultimate or final year of study

How to apply

Step 1: Prepare Your Application:

To apply, you will need to submit the following documents:

• Cover Letter – Tell us why you are interested in our firm, what you can bring, and which team you are interested in joining – Litigation, Property and Commercial, Migrant and Immigration, or Impact.
• CV – Outline your education, work experience, extracurricular activities, and achievements.
• Academic Transcript – Provide an up-to-date Academic Transcript of your university results, including GPA.
• Applications for our 2026/2027 Summer Clerk Programme have now closed.

Step 3: Interview Process:

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, where we will discuss your experience, career aspirations, and how you can contribute to our team.

Step 4: Offer & Onboarding:

• Successful applicants will receive an offer to join our Summer Clerk Programme.

Should you feel you are a good fit for our firm and would like to enquire about Law Clerk opportunities, please email your expressions of interest, attaching your CV and cover letter, to careers@parryfield.com

Hear from Solicitor and Law Clerk

Parry Field Lawyers – New Zealand Lawyers Channel 250 subscribers

My clerkship within the civil litigation team at Parry Field Lawyers consisted of invaluable experiences and opportunities for professional development. Under the guidance of experienced partners, I delved into various aspects of civil litigation, and gained practical skills and insights that I have been able to apply in my legal studies.

I had the chance to actively participate in litigation discovery, conduct research, and work on writing legal opinions and memos, where I had the opportunity to apply legal principles to real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience not only enhanced my understanding of civil litigation but also honed my attention to detail and critical thinking skills.

A unique aspect of my clerkship at Parry Field was the close collaboration with supervising partners. This close collaboration has taught me the importance of being able to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear and concise manner, which I have been able to translate into my legal studies. Beyond the professional growth opportunities, the environment at Parry Field Lawyers was both supportive and enjoyable. Regular social activities, including morning teas and after-work drinks, created a vibrant and inclusive culture where collaboration thrived.

In summary, my clerkship experience at Parry Field Lawyers was nothing short of transformative. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a dynamic and enriching team.

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