Hurunui youth ready to play their part

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

By David Hill, local democracy reporter

The Hurunui Youth Council is gearing up for a busy year.

Fresh from a weekend retreat at Te Puna Wānaka, Ara Institute of Canterbury, last month, youth council member Millie Jane McIlraith says the youth are rearing to go.

‘‘It truly is an amazing youth council this year and I look forward to seeing us work towards creating exciting opportunities for the youth throughout the Hurunui district this year.’’

The 10-strong youth council was joined during the weekend by Hurunui mayor Marie Black, councillors Robbie Bruerton and Dave Hislop, and council staff.

Hurunui District Council youth development officer Jo Carter said the weekend was an opportunity for the youth to learn how the council operates and to plan for the year ahead.

‘‘I am really excited by the energy and commitment of our youth council and look forward to supporting them to achieve their desired outcomes.’’

She said the youth council set some priorities for the year, including driver safety, mental health, youth in Emergency Services, youth grants, issues around vaping, environmental responsibility and sustainability, including reusable period products.

The youth were also keen to upskill in areas like first aid and to be represented on groups such as like North Canterbury Youth Futures, which aimed to support local youth into employment and training.

As well as the serious youth council business, Millie Jane said the youth took the opportunity to have some fun, including visiting an Escape Room and having a silent disco.

The youth council is looking forward to connecting with other youth councils via Youth Voice Canterbury and is planning events for Youth Week, from May 15 to 21.

*Public interest journalism funded through New Zealand on Air.