Youth Council
Applications for Youth Council are open from 14 November 2024 – 6 January 2025.
We're on the lookout for 11 energetic, diverse individuals to be the driving force behind the Rotorua Youth Council.
Applications for the 2025 Rotorua Youth Council are open now for local taiohi between the ages of 15 and 20 who are interested in personal development, leadership and community, while also wanting to have their voices heard in Council decision-making.
This is your opportunity to step up, speak out, and be a voice that shapes decisions impacting your community.
Check out some of the projects that you will be working on
Our Youth Councillors will be involved with various projects, alongside leadership, learning and development opportunities.
Rotorua Lakes Council Annual Plan
Youth Councillors will have the opportunity to directly influence the Council’s Annual Plan. By sharing their ideas and insights, they’ll help shape decisions on issues that matter to young people in our community.
Digital Youth Engagement Plan launch
The Youth Council will implement the Youth Engagement Strategy by connecting with taiohi where they are. Youth Councillors will play a key role in launching a fresh, digital engagement plan designed to connect with young people on the platforms they know best, giving them a stronger voice in local matters.
Civic engagement materials for taiohi
To empower youth involvement in the community, Youth Councillors will create user-friendly materials to demystify local government, helping young people understand their rights, roles, and pathways to civic action in Rotorua- especially important in a local government election year!
Why apply?
Your voice matters
Join the Youth Council to make sure your thoughts and ideas heard in Council decisions. We want to hear what you have to say, so we're hosting regular meetings where you can share your views and bring fresh perspectives. There will be opportunities to directly connect with elected members and share what you have to say. Youth Council is your space to be heard!
Leadership and learning
The Youth Council isn't just about talking; it's about developing skills, unlocking your leadership and learning more. Get ready for a unique opportunity that will support your growth and development, while also looking great on your CV!
Civic participation
Better understand the world of governance and local government. As part of the Youth Council, you'll learn how decisions are made, get the inside view on processes, and pick up skills that will be useful now, and into the future. We also want to demystify local government and create a space where our community can get to know us better and be involved.
Application criteria
- Rotorua-based: We're looking for passionate individuals who call Rotorua district home.
- Aged 15-20: If you're between 15 and 20, this is your opportunity to get involved.
- Encouraging diversity: We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. Your unique experiences, community connections and perspectives are what will make our council thrive.
Commitment required
Monthly meetings
We will host monthly meetings, usually on the second Monday of the month (excluding public or school holidays) from 4pm until 6pm at Rotorua Lakes Council. There will also be monthly working group meetings, usually on the last Monday of the month.
The Rotorua Youth Council will meet between February and September to avoid the final school term and exam period.
Timeline
- Applications open: 14 November 2024
- Youth Council information sessions at Rotorua Library:
- 3 Dec 2024: 3.30pm – 4.30pm
- 12 Dec 2024: 3.30pm – 4.30pm
- 6 Jan 2025: 11am - 12.30pm
- Applications close: 6 January 2025
- Selection interviews: 13 – 17 January 2025
- Notification of selection: 17 January 2025
- Youth Council Whakatau: 31 January 2025
- Overnight wānanga: 31 Jan – 1 Feb 2025
- First Youth Council meeting: Monday 10 February 2025
- Last Youth Council meeting: Monday 29 September 2025.
Ready to make a difference? Apply now!
Get in touch
Got questions or just want to chat? Feel free to reach out to Felicity Jansonius-Bidois at RLCYouthCouncil@rotorualc.nzor call/text 027 228 2729.
