Fancy your martini shaken? Apply now

Calling all James Bond wannabes.

The Security Intelligence Service is on the hunt for the next generation of spooks.

Prospective spies have until April 21 to apply for a job as an intelligence officer at the ultra-secretive Government agency. A glamorous life of secret gadgets and Bond girls? Not likely.
"Intelligence officers collect information, analyse and assess it, and prepare intelligence reports and advice," says the SIS website.

Naturally, those who make the cut will have to be good at keeping secrets - they'll even be forbidden from telling anyone who their new employer is.

In the agency's annual report, released last week, director of security Richard Woods said the SIS's main focus was countering global terrorism.

The job isn't all espionage and subterfuge: there's a lighter side to spy life.

"Those in the Wellington head office have access to a gym - and there is a cafeteria where you can catch up with colleagues over a coffee," says the website, www.nzsis.govt.nz

The salary and benefits are in line with other state sector jobs. After a 12-month training programme, junior spies can expect to earn around $55,000 a year.

Applicants must be New Zealand citizens, tertiary-educated and have no criminal record.

-HERALD ON SUNDAY