Youth Week is bigger, brighter and better this year in Central as the creativity of the districts youth is being celebrated.

Puna Rangatahi (Alexandra and District Youth Trust) youth worker Courtney La’ulu is organising a youth art display at Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery and at the Alexandra Library, and collaborating with others in the community to coordinate more creative fun for youngsters.

Courtney said it was her second year in the youth worker job and she was bringing her strength in creative activities to the nationwide awareness week. 

“I want to show and celebrate the youth in our community and the part they play in it, and give them a forum for their artwork to be on display.

“These [pupils] might not have the opportunity to display their artwork outside of the high school, so this will help them to build confidence and celebrate their creativity.”

‘A Night at the Museum’ on May 22 (from 5-7pm) will be a special event showcasing the colossal squid exhibition, after dark.

There will be a neon art station for youngsters and a night sky photography tutorial for rangitahi in year nine and above. 

Courtney said the evening event grew out of a brain torm with Central Stories operations manager Paula Stephenson, and she hoped it would be a fun evening, with something for all ages. 

Youth Week (is a nationwide festival of events organised by young New Zealanders to celebrate the talents, passion and achievements of young people. This year’s theme is Take Our Place – Whai Wāhitanga

Youth Week recognises the amazing contributions that young people make to their communities throughout New Zealand. The week inspires us to value, support, and affirm the diversity of young people in our society.

The Youth Week Art Exhibition runs from May 17 - May 23.

A selection of pupils from Dunstan High School in years nine and up will have portfolio and photography works on display. 

The night sky photography tutorial will have limited places, register by emailing [email protected]. Entry to the night at the museum is by koha (donation).

Read more: Giant squid exhibition in Alexandra

What’s On: Night at the Museum and Youth Week Art Exhibition.

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