Body politic injected with youth

New Wanganui District Council youth councillors are standing, from left, Renee Harrison (co-chair), Nita McKenzie, Noah Aiono, Mayor Annette Main, Jesse Lewis and Amaan Merchant (co-chair). Kneeling, Porchers Marsters (left), Jackie Hazelhurst and Kiri Wilson. Photo/Supplied

Six new youth councillors were officially sworn in at the first meeting of the Wanganui District Council Youth Committee 2014 last Monday.

The new youth councillors are Noah Aiono, 16, Jackie Hazelhurst, 14, Jesse Lewis 17, Nita McKenzie 17, Porchers Marsters 18, and Kiri Wilson 19.

The six councillors were selected by co-chairs Renee Harrison and Amaan Merchant from 20 applications. Applicants not selected during the recent recruitment period are held for consideration if seats become available mid-term. Applications can still be made online at www.wanganui.govt.nz.

Mayor Annette Main welcomed the youth councillors, thanking them for taking on the important role of representing the youth of the district.

"I look forward to you all doing great work for our community. I wish you well in your appointments."

The councillors are:

Noah Aiono was part of a student delegation that visited China. He has received many awards for regional chamber music and he is a strong rower. He looks forward to using his skills and working with other youth councillors to address issues.

Jackie Hazelhurst was dux at Wanganui Intermediate and in her first year at secondary school she received the science award and the all-round Year 9 girl award. She enjoys public speaking and wants to see the community address environmental issues so that our environment remains green, healthy and sustainable.

Jesse Lewis' interests include gym fitness, longboarding, cooking and playing music. Jesse is also part of a local youth group. He is interested in promoting alternative options for youth instead of the "drinking and partying" culture.

Nita McKenzie is an academic prefect, a school librarian, on the Wanganui High School student council and in the anti-bullying campaign group. She enjoys textiles, fashion, event management and was involved in the Underground Fashion Show. She is keen to see more positive youth events in Wanganui.

Porchers Marsters' interests include dancing, acting, singing and gym training. She wants to help young people, especially girls, discover their self-worth by ensuring there are more positive activities available for young people to take part in.

Kiri Wilson has a passion for Wanganui and wants to help make it a greater place for youth to be. In 2012, Kiri was the head girl at Wanganui High School.