Invercargill City Youth Council

About the Youth Council

The Invercargill City Youth Council exists to empower rangatahi (young people) by ensuring that their voices are heard on local matters and during Council decision-making processes.

Youth Council members are made up of up to 25 young people interested in providing a youth perspective to Council and include representatives of Invercargill secondary schools. The group is open to all young people aged from 12 to 24 who put themselves forward for nomination.

The Youth Council, which has existed since 1998, meets on Wednesday afternoons, every 4 weeks with additional engagement opportunities available in between. The meetings are formal with minutes and agendas – but the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. Chairpersons are elected at the beginning of each year.

The Youth Council aims to:

• Provide civics education and experience how Council works.
• Engage young people in Invercargill City to have a voice in decision making.
• Promote the inclusion of young people in city life and activities.

Youth Council members are involved in youth-related activities across Invercargill and Aotearoa. They explore the workings of Council, share fresh ideas with Councillors and each other, get involved with local community organisations and actively connect with other young people of Invercargill. Above all, they foster new friendships and have a great time together! Funding for such activities and participation is provided by the Invercargill City Council.