Youth Council
Applications for Youth Council are open from 1 September 2026 – 1 November 2026
Applications are open!
Applications for the 2027 Rotorua Youth Council are open now for local taiohi between the ages of 15 and 20 who are interested in governance, community, personal development and leadership, while also wanting to have their voices heard in Council decision-making.
We're on the lookout for 11 passionate, energetic, diverse individuals to be the driving force behind the Rotorua Youth Council. This is your opportunity to step up, speak out and be a voice that shapes decisions impacting your community.
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.
2027 Youth Council projects
Our Youth Councillors will be involved with various projects, alongside leadership, learning and development opportunities;
- RLC Long Term Plan: Youth Councillors will have the opportunity to submit their opinion to the Rotorua Lakes Council’s Long Term Plan. By sharing ideas and insights, they will help shape decisions on issues that matter to young people in our community, ensuring rangatahi voices are included in the plans and priorities that guide the future of Rotorua.
- Ngā Wai o Rotorua | Youth Engagement Strategy Implementation: The Youth Council will continue to bring the youth engagement strategy to life by connecting with other young people across Rotorua. From running workshops, hosting a hackathon to spark solutions to community challenges and feeding in to a youth-led engagement platform, this mahi is all about amplifying the voices of taiohi.
- Youth Week: Youth Councillors will brainstorm, plan, and deliver Youth Week activities that bring rangatahi together and celebrate youth voice in Rotorua. This includes developing event ideas, coordinating promotions, and supporting the delivery of activities throughout the week. 2026 Youth Week featured a Talent Quest, a lunchtime radio show, a 3x3 basketball tournament, and a community tree-planting event.
Application Criteria
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:
Fortnightly Meetings: We will host fortnightly meetings, usually on the second and last Monday of the month (excluding public or school holidays) from 3.45pm until 6pm at Rotorua Lakes Council.
The Rotorua Youth Council will meet between February and October to avoid the final school term and exam period.
Timeline
- Applications Open: 1 September 2026
- Applications Close: 1 November 2026
- Selection Interviews: 7 – 11 December 2026
- Notification of Selection: From 1pm, 14 December 2026
- Overnight Wānanga: 29 – 31 January 2027
- Youth Council Pōhiri: 15 February 2027
- First Youth Council meeting: Monday 22 February 2026
- Last Youth Council meeting: Monday 11 October 2026
Get in touch
Got questions or just want to chat? Feel free to reach out to rlcyouthcouncil@rotorualc.nz
Want to stay up to date? If you want to get regular updates, email rlcyouthcouncil@rotorualc.nz to be added to the mailing list and follow @rotoruayouthcouncil on Instagram
