Young people from across Aotearoa are calling on the Government to make rangatahi wellbeing a priority in Budget 2026, with urgent demands for stronger investment in youth spaces, mental health support, affordable public transport, and childcare.
The calls come through Save the Children New Zealand’s Generation Hope initiative, where youth ambassadors from around the country have joined forces to share what they believe needs immediate attention if young people are to thrive in an increasingly uncertain future.
The campaign brings together the voices of rangatahi concerned about rising living costs, climate pressures, limited opportunities, and growing mental health struggles affecting young people and whānau across the motu.
Seventeen-year-old youth ambassador Betty from Ōtepoti Dunedin says safe and supportive youth spaces can have life-changing impacts for young people, particularly those seeking belonging, creativity, leadership opportunities and community connection.
Rangatahi involved in the initiative are calling for more Government investment into youth councils, local wellbeing initiatives, creative programmes and community-led spaces designed specifically for young people.
Affordable transport has also emerged as a major concern, with youth ambassadors saying many rangatahi are struggling to afford petrol and transport costs while also wanting more sustainable options that respond to the climate crisis.
Fifteen-year-old ambassador Brayden says trains and buses should become more accessible and affordable for young people who rely on public transport to access school, work, social activities and opportunities.
Mental health support remains another major issue raised by rangatahi, particularly around the need for schools and educators to respond more effectively to students experiencing distress.
Young people involved in the campaign say too many rangatahi still feel dismissed or unsupported when dealing with mental health challenges, despite growing awareness of anxiety, depression and emotional stress among youth populations.
Save the Children New Zealand’s Child Rights Advocacy and Research Director Jacqui Southey says the concerns raised reflect the everyday realities many young people are currently navigating.
The organisation says many rangatahi are increasingly anxious about their futures, including concerns about employment opportunities, housing affordability, financial pressure and whether they will be able to build stable lives in Aotearoa.
Save the Children argues Budget 2026 presents a critical opportunity for the Government to demonstrate it is listening to young people by investing directly in initiatives that improve wellbeing, inclusion and long-term opportunities.
The organisation also says children and young people should have a greater role in shaping Government decisions that affect their lives, particularly during a time when economic pressures are intensifying for many households.
Advocates point out that while many young people are not old enough to vote, they still contribute to the economy through part-time work, study, volunteering and community involvement, making their perspectives important in national decision-making.
The final Generation Hope video bringing together the voices of rangatahi from across Aotearoa will be presented at a post-Budget event in Auckland on Friday.
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