Published on 21 May 2026
Whanganui rangatahi gathered at Cooks Gardens this week as part of Youth Week 2026, with Mayor Andrew Tripe hosting a welcome event for school leaders and international students from across the district.
Held on Monday, 18 May, the gathering brought together students and elected members to share experiences of living in Whanganui and discuss ideas for how the district can continue to improve for young people.
Mayor Andrew spoke with students about his vision for Whanganui and the importance of creating opportunities that connect the district to the wider world.
“We want Whanganui to be a place where young people feel connected, inspired and excited about their future,” says Mayor Andrew.
“Our young people have a lot to say about life in Whanganui and it’s important that we hear them.
“These school leaders are our future, and not in the clichéd way. They won’t simply inherit the future of our city; they play a crucial part in shaping it.
“It is also wonderful to have input from our international students – they contribute an extremely valuable perspective on youth facilities from their own countries and experiences.”
The event was part of Youth Week 2026, which continues across Whanganui this week with a programme of events designed to connect rangatahi with sport, technology, leadership and future career pathways.
“This experience made me realise that our voices can make an impact on this community,” says Eddie Mak (Hoi Chun), a Whanganui Collegiate School student from Hong Kong. “We have brought up ideas like a concert, a triathlon event, and ways to convince international students to go back home using Air Chathams. Overall, this event was very insightful.”
Young people can explore study and employment opportunities at the Careers Expo at the Whanganui War Memorial Centre on Friday, 22 May, from 9am–3pm.
The Rangatahi Tech Expo will also take place on Friday, 22 May at Hive HQ inside the Whanganui Regional Museum, from 10am–2.30pm, offering hands-on experiences with technology and innovation.
Sport Whanganui is welcoming youth aged 12+ for Midnight Basketball at Springvale Stadium on Friday evening from 8pm–midnight.