Rotorua rangatahi are being encouraged to get involved in a packed programme of events celebrating Youth Week 2026, with activities focused on creativity, leadership, sport and community connection.
The Rotorua Youth Council has organised a week-long lineup running from 18 to 24 May, with events designed by young people for young people.
The celebrations begin with the Youth Talent Quest at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre on Monday night, where performers aged between 12 and 20 will take the stage in dance, singing and musical acts.
Twenty performances are scheduled across solo, small group and large group categories, highlighting the depth of talent among Rotorua rangatahi.
Rotorua Lakes Mayor Tania Tapsell will join the judging panel alongside Youth Council representatives Jack Te Kiri and Kalolaine Ta’ufo’ou, who will MC the evening.
Youth Week activities continue with a 3×3 basketball competition at Kuirau Park on Tuesday, delivered in partnership with the Rotorua Basketball Association and supported through Basketball New Zealand funding.
On Thursday evening, young people attending the Rotorua Night Market will be able to access discounted food through a new Youth Week initiative, with vouchers distributed by the Rotorua Youth Council.
The week will conclude with a community planting day at Linton Park on Saturday, giving rangatahi an opportunity to contribute to local environmental efforts before sharing a community barbecue.
Throughout the week, Youth Councillors will also host Youth Unmuted on The Heat FM Turn It Up, providing a platform for young people to discuss issues important to them and reflect the 2026 Youth Week theme focused on ensuring youth voices are heard.
Organisers say the programme is designed to help young people build confidence, develop skills and strengthen community connections while celebrating the contribution rangatahi make across Rotorua and Aotearoa.
