South Wairarapa Youth Council
South Wairarapa District Council is calling for rangatahi (young people) to have a voice and a seat at the table to help shape the future of their communities on a new Youth Council.
The Youth Council was endorsed by the Council’s Strategic Leadership Team in September 2025 to directly support the goals of Wairarapa Youth Strategy (Te Rautaki Rangatahi o Wairarapa) by creating a platform for rangatahi to lead, connect and contribute to decisions that affect their communities.
The Youth Council’s aims are to:
- Reflect Wairarapa Youth Strategy’s commitment to empowering the youth voice
- Foster young leadership
- Ensure rangatahi are actively involved in shaping a vibrant and inclusive Wairarapa
The Youth Council will create opportunities for 10 rangatahi to grow leadership, confidence and professional skills, to connect with community champions, decision makers and collaborate with other youth groups across Wairarapa, says Alex Taia-Lehmstedt, Council Youth Development Advisor.
“I look forward to amplifying the voices of the district’s rangatahi. The Youth Council provides a platform to empower and build future leaders, giving them exposure to democracy and governance.”
What will Youth Council members do?
- Connect, celebrate and support one another
- Advise Council and Community Boards on how to build communities where young people thrive
- Share youth perspectives on local issues and global challenges
- Grow leadership, confidence, and professional skills
- Connect with community champions and decision-makers
- Collaborate with other youth groups across the Wairarapa
What does the Youth Council offer?
- Personal and professional development
- Opportunities to lead and support community initiatives
- Regular catch ups, hangouts and event planning
- Snacks – always snacks
Criteria for entry to South Wairarapa Youth Council
- Applicants must be aged 12 to 24 years
- Applicants must live in South Wairarapa.
Keen to apply?
If you or someone you know is keen to be on South Wairarapa Youth Council, please respond by midday on Friday 22 November, providing the following information:
- Name, age and location
- A short paragraph or two about your passion, ideas and what you can bring to the table
- Email your information to: alex.lehmstedt@swdc.govt.nz
If over 10 strong applications are received, brief interviews may be held to support a final selection. The Youth Council’s first meeting is planned to be at Featherston Community Centre this year.