Applications are now open for the Whakatāne District Youth Council / Kaunihera Taiohi. This is a unique opportunity for young people in the district to become active participants in shaping their community's future.

Councillor Toni Boynton, who is the Council representative on the Youth Council and acts as a mentor, says there are many benefits to being part of the team.

“It’s an excellent opportunity to make connections with rangatahi from across the district. You’ll use your voice to advocate for your peers and advise Council on youth matters, while developing your leadership skills. There will be opportunities to be mentored by leaders in our community, get involved in community events and contribute to projects,” Councillor Boynton explains.

The new year’s Youth Council begins in February and successful applicants hold the position for the remainder of the calendar year. Commitments include attending meetings every fortnight, which vary between online and in-person sessions, and organising and taking part in several youth events throughout the year. 

Current Youth Council members speak highly of their experience, pointing out the valuable skills they've gained, the meaningful connections they've made and the positive impact they've had on their community through their involvement.

"It's been a great opportunity to learn more about some of our district’s challenges and what we are doing to solve them,” says current member, Annabel. "I've really enjoyed gaining insights into how the Council operates and how our community functions as a whole.”

Councillor Boynton says she can’t emphasise enough how important the youth voice is, and being a Youth Council representative is an effective way to ensure the uniqueness of the youth perspective is brought to the table.

“It’s about making sure that young people’s views are represented in Council decision-making. The world is changing rapidly, and if we don’t pay attention to what young people are seeing and saying, we will miss the boat. The Youth Council is in a distinctive and important position to make sure that happens.”

Anyone aged between 14 and 24 years old, who lives in the Whakatāne District and is interested in becoming a member of the Whakatāne District Youth Council can submit their application online until early February 2025. 

Find out more information, including the application form >>