Summer clerkship programme

A summer of professional development, meaningful work, and intellectual challenge.

Spend your summer gaining real, hands-on legal experience alongside some of the best lawyers and mentors in the profession.

The McVeagh Fleming Summer Clerkship Programme is designed for penultimate-year law students seeking an authentic insight into life at a client-focused, full-service firm. Over three months, you’ll work on meaningful client matters, build practical skills, and experience what it’s truly like to practise law.

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Your experience

What to expect

Our Summer Clerkship is designed to give you meaningful exposure to real legal practice on client files, not just observation from the sidelines.

Working closely with partners and senior lawyers, attending meetings, and developing practical skills that build confidence quickly.

Alongside your legal work, you’ll take part in focused training sessions, firm events, and have opportunities to connect across our three Auckland offices.

As a mid-sized, full-service firm, you’ll experience both the breadth of our expertise and the personal support that defines our culture. For many, the Summer Clerkship is the first step towards joining us as a Law Graduate.

Development

How you are supported

From the moment you begin, you’re set up to succeed.

Each Summer Clerk is paired with a dedicated buddy who will guide you through onboarding and help you integrate smoothly into the team. You’ll also benefit from structured mentorship from our partners, with regular access to experienced lawyers who are invested in your development.

Throughout the summer, you’ll be invited to our Lunch & Learns, designed to broaden your understanding of different practice areas and strengthen your practical skills.

As a firm, our aim is to empower our people through smart technology, efficient processes, and a collaborative culture, so we can deliver exceptional outcomes for clients, and give you the confidence to grow as a future lawyer.

Don’t just take our word for it

Hear from some of our amazing past summer clerks.

I am so grateful for my two summers clerking at McVeagh Fleming, which led into part‑time work, then full‑time work, and eventually a position as a solicitor! I have enjoyed working across all three offices and in two teams. I am grateful for all the excellent guidance I’ve received.

Georgia Sexton - Solicitor

I enjoyed sitting in on client meetings and going to court/mediations. I found it helpful to see how the lawyers interacted with their clients, and the sort of advice that would be provided.

Anoushka McClymont - Summer Clerk

The team culture is supportive, open, and professional. There is a strong sense of collegiality, and everyone is approachable.

Kaythi Finn - Summer Clerk

My overall experience in the Summer Clerkship Programme has been incredibly positive. I have genuinely loved my time here and found the opportunity to gain real legal office experience invaluable.

Ezra Magele - Summer Clerk

Frequently asked questions

Who is the Summer Clerkship Programme for?

Our Summer Clerkship Programme is designed for law students in their penultimate year of study who are interested in gaining practical, hands-on experience within a full-service law firm.

When do applications open for the McVeagh Fleming Summer Clerkship Programme?

Applications typically open in March, and students are encouraged to apply early once the application period begins. Applications are typically open for a couple of weeks.

What do I need to include in my application?

Your application should include: A personalised cover letter, Your CV, and an academic transcript.

When does the Summer Clerkship Programme run?

Placements commence in late November and run through to a few weeks into February.

Where are McVeagh Fleming’s offices located?

We have three Auckland offices:
‍City: HSBC Tower, 188 Quay Street
‍Albany: 5/7 Corinthian Drive
‍Manukau: van den Brink House, 652 Great South Road

Full contact details here.

Will I work in a specific area of law during the clerkship?

Yes. We ask applicants to specify the area of law they are most interested in, as well as their preferred office location, as part of their application. Summer clerks will be placed within a particular practice area so they can gain hands-on experience and insight into that field.

Can a summer clerkship at McVeagh Fleming lead to a graduate position?

For some students, a summer clerkship can lead to future opportunities with the firm, including graduate roles after completing their law degree.

What is the workplace culture like at McVeagh Fleming?

The culture at McVeagh Fleming is collaborative and supportive, with a strong focus on teamwork and the development of professional skills

What areas of law can clerks work in?

McVeagh Fleming is a full-service law firm with a wide range of practice areas. Clerkship opportunities may include exposure to areas such as: Corporate and commercial, Property, Litigation and dispute resolution, and Private client work. Full details are provided when applications are open - when completing the application process.

*as at March 2026.