Youth Week

Held every year, Youth Week is a nationwide festival of events organised by young New Zealanders to celebrate the talents, passion and achievements of young people. Youth Week recognises the amazing contributions that young people make to their communities throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. The week inspires us to value, support, and affirm the diversity of young people in our society.

About Youth Week

Youth week logo

Youth Week is coordinated by Ara Taiohi, with the support of the Ministry of Youth Development (MYD) - Te Manatū Whakahiato Taiohi and Sport New Zealand - Ihi Aotearoa. Events are designed to encourage young people (aged 12 to 24 years) to take on challenges, share ideas and focus on the positive aspects of being young. The week also recognises the youth workers, youth service providers, and others working with and for young people.

Youth Week 2025 Grant Programme

The Youth Week 2025 Grant Programme (the Programme) is seeking applications for youth-led/youth-focused initiatives/events under the Youth Week 2025 theme: 'Take Our Place – Whai Wāhitanga’.

Applications to the Programme are being invited from community-based youth groups, including Iwi, Pasifika and migrant and refugee groups, youth development providers, organisations delivering physical activity opportunities for young people, and schools and education providers, to receive funding to support youth-led initiatives during Youth Week 2025.

The Programme is now open for applications and closes at 5:00pm on Sunday 16 March 2025, with successful applicants notified by Friday 28 March 2025. 

Visit Ara Taiohi’s website for more information on how to apply.

Youth Week 2025

Youth Week 2025 will be held Monday 19 to Sunday 25 May 2025! As chosen by young people and the youth sector, Youth Week 2025 is celebrating the theme: 'Take Our Place – Whai Wāhitanga’. 

Visit Ara Taiohi’s website for resources and keep up to date with events happening throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.