Oamaru Youth Take the Lead for Local Youth Week Celebrations

The Y Central South Island are delighted to get the streets of Oamaru buzzing this May, as they host a series of events for Youth Week 2026.  Supported by Ara Taiohi (Peak body of youth development in Aotearoa) and designed to champion the theme “Taringa whakarongo! Ki te reo o ngā taiohi — Our voices matter! We deserve to be heard,” the week features a Youth-Led Forum and a “Vibe and Voice” Night Market.
Breaking away from traditional adult-led programming, these events are designed, managed, and executed entirely by local taiohi (youth). From selecting guest speakers and designing workshop flows to overseeing stage logistics and sound, the young people of Oamaru are exercising true Whai Wāhitanga (youth agency) with guidance from the local Oamaru Y team.
Kicking off the events will be the youth-led forum being held on Monday 18 May between 6 and 8pma the Y, 44 Humber Street. This dedicated space is designed for rangitahi to share experiences with mental health journeys, their aspirations for their local town and the community challenges for youth.  Youth perspectives will guide the kōrero (talk) with guest speakers on hand to guide and support their voice.
Following on from the forum, on Wednesday 20 May between 5 and 7pm the “Vibe and Voice” night market will be a high energy celebration with food stalls, youth service pop-ups and community engagement opportunities all curated by our local youth.
“Every part of this programme is intentionally designed to amplify the voices of taiohi,” says Anthony Toa, Y Oamaru Manager. “This isn’t token participation; our young people have real authority. They are building confidence and experiencing what it means to drive community events that celebrate their own identity and wellbeing.”
Rooted in Manaakitanga (to uplift another’s mana through respect and care, fostering strong, reciprocal relationships and a deep sense of community) the events prioritize cultural safety and accessibility. Whether performing on stage or supporting behind the scenes, every young person is encouraged to show up as their authentic self in a non-judgemental atmosphere.
This initiative is bolstered by a network of local organisations, including mental health providers, arts networks, and local schools. These partnerships ensure that rangatahi are not only heard during Youth Week but are connected to ongoing pathways of support and opportunity within the Oamaru community.
Te Whakangao I te Reana ā Mua | Investing in the Next Generation