Want to get involved?
Alongside our events, projects, and informal learning opportunities, we offer pathways for young people to step up as leaders in their community. From the Hurunui Youth Council to our Hurunui Youth Programme Leaders, there are plenty of ways to get involved, grow your skills, and shape what happens in our district.
See below for our current opportunities for both Hurunui Youth Council members and HYP in-school Leaders.
Interested in employment pathways or life after school? Take a look at our MTFJ and SEED programmes to explore your next step.
Hurunui Youth Council (HYC) (14½ - 24 years)
The Hurunui Youth Council is an official committee of the Hurunui District Council.
Applications for the 2027 Hurunui Youth Council members are open NOW, until Sunday 4 October.
You can find the application at: www.hurunui.govt.nz/hycapply
Learn about HYC!
Serving on the Hurunui Youth Council (HYC) is a unique opportunity to make a real impact for young people in our district. Each year, members are given specific portfolios to lead and champion, ensuring youth voices are heard where it matters most. HYC is an official committee of Council.
What’s expected of you
- Be available one Monday evening each month (see dates below) at the Hurunui District Council in Amberley.
- Dedicate extra time for events, workshops, or other Youth Council responsibilities.
- Turn 15 years old before 1 July 2027.
As a Youth Councillor, you will…
- Raise your voice on issues that matter to young people.
- Learn about governance and local politics.
- Collaborate with other local Youth Councils.
- Grow your leadership skills.
- Work alongside the HYP Leadership Team.
- Attend training camps, workshops, and personal development opportunities.
- Meet new people, have new experiences, and open new doors.
2027 Meeting Dates (5:30–8:00 pm)
📍 Hurunui District Council, Amberley
- Monday 8 February – Formal Meeting
- Monday 8 March – Workshop
- Monday 19 April – Formal Meeting
- Monday 10 May – Workshop
- Monday 14 June – Formal Meeting
- Monday 12 July – Workshop
- Monday 9 August – Formal Meeting
- Monday 13 September – Workshop
- Monday 11 October – Formal Meeting
- Monday 8 November – End of Year Celebration 🎉
Please note: Dates may occasionally change, and additional opportunities and commitments may arise throughout the year.
Is there any training?
HYC Members kick off their year with a 4 day leadership camp focused on whanaungatanga — building connections, getting to know each other, and strengthening leadership skills. You’ll also take part in a dedicated governance training day, learning how the Youth Council functions and how you can create impact.
Across the year, you’ll have opportunities to grow through personal development workshops - past examples include cultural competency, public speaking, event planning and more.
Do you need to be at school?
No, you just need to live in the Hurunui and be aged 14 1/2 -24 years.
How do I apply?
You can find the application at: www.hurunui.govt.nz/hycapply
I have questions!
Please send an email to kimberley.spencer@hurunui.govt.nz or text/call Kim on 027 1800 2929.
HYP in-school Leaders (12 - 24 years)
Recruitment for HYP Leaders takes place each year during August/September, so keep an eye out for your chance to get involved!
We have HYP in-school Leaders at Amuri Area School, Cheviot Area School, and Hurunui College. Our leaders play an important role in supporting school-based activities, promoting youth opportunities, and helping create positive experiences for other young people.
We're committed to supporting young people who are passionate about making a difference and want to grow their leadership skills, confidence, and experience - wherever they're at on their leadership journey.
Complete an application at: www.hurunui.govt.nz/hypapply
Learn about HYP Leaders!
HYP in-school Leaders work in small teams within their schools to plan and run fun, engaging activities and events for young people. This can include lunchtime activities such as games, sports, and creative events, as well as helping to organise larger Hurunui Youth events.
The role requires a minimum commitment of one hour each week, with some additional time when larger events are being planned or delivered
What type of events?
HYP in-school Leaders are the ones who make HYP happen at school! Working together, they come up with ideas. They get to decide what they want to organise, whether that’s sports and board game tournaments, colouring competitions, LEGO build-offs, or something completely different. The possibilities are endless!
Is there any training?
HYP in-school Leaders kick off their journey with a 4-day leadership camp, focused on whanaungatanga - building strong connections, getting to know each other, and learning how to plan and lead events.
Throughout the year, leaders will also have the chance to take part in a range of personal learning and development opportunities as they come up.
Do you need to be at school?
Yes - at either Cheviot Area School, Amuri Area School or Hurunui College.
How do I apply?
Complete an application at: www.hurunui.govt.nz/hypapply
I have questions!
Please send an email to kimberley.spencer@hurunui.govt.nz or text/call Kim on 027 1800 2929.
Met Mel our youth worker :)
Additionally, we have a part-time youth worker based out of the three Hurunui Area schools.
The youth worker develops youth informed activities and events in and out of school. We look to create positive opportunities for our rangatahi that will offer ways to connect with others, build relationships, explore self-development and seek out what’s needed to achieve their best self.
Get in touch with our youth worker at school or email hyp@hurunui.govt.nz to get involved or if you have ideas to share.
