Youth Week is a nationwide festival of events organised by young New Zealanders to celebrate the talents, passion and success of local young people.
Youth Week aims to amplify young people’s valuable contributions to their communities by supporting them to design, deliver and evaluate all aspects of the week. We want Aotearoa to be a country where young people are vibrant and optimistic and are supported and encouraged to take up challenges.
Youth Week Events are designed to encourage young people to take on challenges, share ideas and focus on the positive aspects of being young and to recognise the youth workers, youth service providers and others working with and for young people.
For Youth Week 2026 the focus is all about making sure young people’s voices are heard. ‘Our Voices Matter, We Deserve to Be Heard’ is a chance for rangatahi to share themselves in the ways that feel right to them - through kōrero, creativity, culture, leadership, and everyday actions.
Ara Taiohi is the kaitiaki of this week. It can also be a chance to recognise and celebrate young volunteers.
See our Top Tips for Engaging with Youth