National Youth Volunteer Awards
Thank you to all those who have nominated a young person or group. Nominations are now closed.
About the awards
The National Youth Volunteer Awards recognise young people aged 12 to 24 who are giving their time, energy and care to strengthen communities, support others and look after the natural world.
Delivered by Volunteering New Zealand, with support from the Department of Internal Affairs, the awards celebrate the depth, diversity and collective impact of youth volunteering across Aotearoa New Zealand.
We are grateful for the support for promotion and judging from Student Volunteer Army.
Why youth volunteering matters
Young volunteers are already making a significant contribution in communities throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. These awards recognise that contribution and help inspire more young people to take part, lead, support others and care for people, places and the planet.
The awards are grounded in mahi aroha — work done with love, generosity and care. They celebrate both visible leadership and the quieter contributions that help whānau, groups, organisations and communities to flourish.
In this International Volunteer Year, let's recognise young volunteers who are the future of volunteering.
Award categories
There are four National Youth Volunteer Award categories.
Youth Group of the Year — celebrates a school committee, youth council, youth-led collective, team or club working together for a shared cause and making a positive difference for people, places or the planet.
Kaitiakitanga Award — recognises young people or youth-led groups taking practical action for the environment, including climate action, conservation, restoration, biodiversity protection, clean-ups and waste reduction.
Future Leader / Tuakana Award — recognises young people who support, guide and encourage others as role models, coaches, tuakana, peer mentors or supporters.
Unsung Hero Award — recognises young volunteers whose quiet, consistent and generous behind-the-scenes service helps others, groups, organisations, whānau or communities flourish.
Key dates
Nominations opened on 6 July 2026 and closed on 30 August 2026. Winners will be recognised in December 2026.