Youth Council Expressions of Interest for 2026
Have your say. Make your mark. Shape the future of Rangitīkei.
Expressions of interest for 2026 now open
Are you passionate about where you live? Do you want to have a voice in decisions that affect young people across Rangitīkei? The Rangitīkei Youth Council is your chance to be part of real change - working alongside councillors and community leaders to make life better for rangatahi across the district.
What You’ll Do
Being part of RYC means getting involved, giving back, and growing as a leader. From March to December, members commit around 1 hour per week and 2–3 hours every fortnight for meetings and community involvement. (Kai is provided at meetings, we know snacks matter!)
- Your time might include:
- Volunteering in your community
- Reading council papers and preparing for meetings
- Supporting council staff at events or on committees
- Brainstorming initiatives with your peers
- Liaising with your youth networks about what matters most
- Recognising youth achievements and community service
- Providing advice and perspectives on key council decisions
- Being a leader - in your school, town, and community
What You’ll Get Out of It
Joining the Youth Council opens doors - for your future and your community.
You’ll:
- Develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills
- Be part of shaping Rangitīkei’s future
- Gain recognition through a Certificate of Participation/Community Service
(great for your CV) - Get support to start your own youth-led initiatives with council backing
- Learn from experienced Rangitīkei District Councillors and staff
- Explore career pathways within council and beyond
- Be part of a whānau that values rangatahi voice and mana
Eligibility
To apply, you must:
- Be aged 15–24
- Live in or have a strong connection (whakapapa, schooling, work, or community involvement) to the Rangitīkei District
We welcome rangatahi from all backgrounds, whether you’re studying, working, or volunteering - your voice matters.
Key Dates for 2026
Expressions of Interest open: 10 November 2025
Close: 6 February 2026
- Applications reviewed by the Rangitīkei Youth Council Team
- Shortlisted applicants invited to interviews mid-February
- 2026 Youth Council announced by 28 February 2026
- Induction weekend: Early March (exact date TBC)
You can also emailJustine.Rowe@rangitikei.govt.nz for more information.
Support & Guidance
Every youth councillor is supported by:
- A dedicated member of the Rangitīkei Youth Council Team (Rangitīkei District Council staff)
- Elected Councillors who act as mentors and guides
- Carpooling available if you need help getting to meetings or events on request.
You’ll never be doing this alone - we’ve got your back every step of the way.
For Parents and Whānau
Your rangatahi will be part of something special - a leadership and community programme that builds skills, confidence, and connection.
They’ll be supported by trained council staff and mentored by councillors. We value the trust and support of whānau in helping young people step into these opportunities.
FAQ for Parents/Whānau
No - there’s no cost to be involved. Meals are provided during meeting.
Carpooling available if you need help getting to meetings or events on request.
Yes. All activities are supervised by Rangitīkei District Council staff, and Youth Council meetings take place in safe community venues.
On average, 1 hour per week (flexible) and 2–3 hours every fortnight for meetings.
They’ll develop leadership skills, gain community service experience, and grow their confidence - all while contributing to the future of Rangitīkei.