Kids party on without drink

Ellenor Pryor and Vaanipriya Diwan test out the party's photo booth.

Kids party on without drink

There was no alcohol but plenty of party spirit fuelling the atmosphere at the Whangarei Youth Space's Christmas Do.

The event, dubbed Blackout, was organised over the course of a week by five young members who wanted to show that boozing wasn't the key to having a good time.

Organiser Ocean George, 16, explained the event was inspired by her keenness to help a friend who had developed a drinking problem aged just 15.

The party featured a darkened dance area with a blacklight, a photo booth, mocktails and competitions.

Ocean said she was thrilled with the 60 or so people who had already turned up by about 3.30pm on Wednesday.

"There's already way more than I thought there would be," she said.

Whangarei Youth Space in Cafler Park was set up to give young people from 12 to 24 a place to hang out and access to health and social support services. Youth can socialise in a safe way, take part in activities and and learn new skills.

Northern Advocate photographer John Stone headed along to check out the end-of-year highjinks at the youth space.

GLOWING GIRLS: Organisers Justine Sampson, Ocean George and Clare Flavell were thrilled with the turnout.

AMPED UP: Damon Samuels, Bileigh Rei McPhee and Kosena York are ready to party.

GOOD LUNGS: Abrigael Flavell goes all out to fill the room with bubbles.

FRAMED: Laura Larkin and Cheyenne Ellmers.

MOCKTAILS: Maia Kawiti makes countless fruity drinks.

FACE TIME: Ellenor Pryor and Vaanipriya Diwan test out the party's photo booth.