Student members of the Wanganui District Council's youth arm are leaving the city for study and travel.
The Chronicle caught up with the Youth Committee members before they headed off and asked how long did they serve on the council, the school they attended, what are their plans, and what would they like to see happen in Wanganui?
Raphael Solomon, 18, WHS: Six years (started 2008 aged 12 when at Wanganui Intermediate), deputy chair then co-chair.
Victoria University, LLB.
"I'd like Wanganui youth to view the city in a more positive way and actively work to improve it. Eventually I'd like to return to raise my own family."
Sam Munneke, 18, WHS: Two years. Victoria University, conjoint Bachelor of Design/ BSc. "We have lost the art school, fashion and design. Wanganui needs to expand its tertiary courses."
Monty Blackwood, 18, Wanganui Collegiate: One year, Victoria University, conjoint B Comm/BA. "Maintain a family friendly city where the youth can feel safe."
Daniel Marks, 19, WHS: Two years. Travel around the world to work. First stop US and Canada to ski.
"I would like to see a pathway for youth to stay in Wanganui, more creative arts faculties and a more full tertiary sector. There is no youth tertiary club. It's a cool little Wellington."
Olivia Wood-Bodley, 18, WHS: Two years. Auckland University, Bachelor of Bio-Medical Science.
"Wanganui was an amazing place to grow up, with Kowhai Park. I would like to see it continue to grow."The Youth Committee is recruiting new councillors. For more information look under Youth Committee at wanganui.govt.nz