Youth Rōpū

Our Youth Rōpū is a body of people aged 14-24 who are enthusiastic about the environment, civics and empowering young people across Canterbury/Waitaha.

Made up of up to 20 members, the Youth Rōpū was formed to facilitate a two-way relationship between young people and decision-makers in Waitaha.

With the support of the Youth Engagement and Education team, the Youth Rōpū gives young people in the Waitaha region an opportunity to promote the issues they care about.

Our priorities

The Youth Rōpū has two priorities; to ensure that the voices of young people are heard by decision-makers and staff at Environment Canterbury and to engage youth across Waitaha with their regional council.

To do this the Rōpū takes part in multiple initiatives and projects including:

  • Providing advice to Council.
  • Running youth meetups in Christchurch for Highschool Enviro Groups.
  • Advocating for youth members to be added as community members to Canterbury Water Zone Committees and separate Council committees.
  • Developing relationships with other youth organisations in Waitaha.
  • Running various other events across Waitaha.

Latest achievements

Environment

Governance

  • Successful advocacy for the appointment of two youth representatives to the Regional Leadership, Climate, and Community Resilience Committee.
  • Development of a fair and robust appointment process for youth representatives.
  • Discussions on obtaining updates from youth representatives on different Environment Canterbury boards.

Mana whenua

  • Closer connection with Environment Canterbury Tuia Team and regional councillors.
  • Organisation of a Te Tiriti o Waitangi Workshop, providing insights and understanding of Aotearoa's history.
  • Implementation of a new mana whenua Co-Chair model and expansion of available positions for greater diversity.
  • Noho at Rehua Marae, welcoming new members and reflecting on the year.

Public transport and engagement

  • Submissions on topics like the Greater Christchurch Spatial Plan and lowering the voting age.
  • Enviro Leaders Network Hui as a replacement for Youth Meetups, focusing on collaboration between schools.
  • Our Future Canterbury: Youth Event co-organised to gather youth opinions on the Regional Policy Statement.
  • Creation of the radio show 'Fix it Up Waitaha' and discussions with Public Transport staff for a new Youth Reference Group.

Presenting opportunities

  • Enviroschools annual celebration, reconnecting with the programme.
  • Speaking 4 the Planet Competition, showcasing young people's passion for environmental issues.
  • Reconnection with Youth Voice Canterbury Network, facilitating connections between youth councils across Canterbury.
  • Hosting workshops with Kaikōura Youth Council, Christchurch Youth Council, Selwyn Youth Council, and Grey District Council.
  • The Youth Rōpū attended the Festival for the Future, connecting with diverse kaupapa and forging youth council bonds.

Meet the team

Colter C

Colter Carson, 24

Christchurch South/Ōwhanga

Graduate Environmental Consultant at Tonkin + Taylor (previously University of Canterbury and Christchurch Rudolf Steiner School)

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

Te Poho-o-Tamatea (Port Hills). The hills have essentially been my back garden since 2013 when I first moved to Ōtautahi and I regularly walk, cycle and climb there.

Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Rōpū?

I am very passionate about all major environmental issues (i.e., climate change, biodiversity loss, plastic pollution) and also have a strong interest in how these correlate to social issues (i.e. climate justice, equity issues with development).

I feel very motivated to use my energy, skills and knowledge to advocate that we do better for the environment as a society.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

Microscopic vision (to see down to the atomic level).

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Transparency, fairness and compassion.

Alice D

Alice Docking, 21

Christchurch South/Ōwhanga - EYR Co-Chair

Lincoln University (previously Cashmere High)

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

My favourite place in Canterbury is Hinewai Reserve, out on Banks Peninsula. Hinewai Reserve is privately owned land with several walking tracks for public access. Hinewai Reserve is a restoration project aiming to foster the natural regeneration of vegetation and wildlife.

Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Rōpū?

I’m interested in the relationship between social and environmental issues within the Canterbury community.

I’m particularly interested in working alongside the community to ensure legislative changes are appropriately interpreted.

I believe that to make an impact, understanding how the system works is influential to what you do. This can be achieved through the Youth Rōpū.

I believe there is significant value to the untrained, youth perspective. I believe the dynamic environment of Ōtautahi has developed adaptability, creativity and flexibility of thinking.

I recognise that these changes are happening soon and would love to get involved with the youth's voice for policy implementation and enable community interpretation in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

I would love to have the superpower of time travel. Perhaps influenced by an upbringing of watching Doctor Who, time travel would allow me to have an in-depth understanding of past actions undertaken in Aotearoa, New Zealand. I would love the ability to visit Aotearoa in her peak ecological prime.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Manaakitanga, collaboration and Tuakana-teina.

Oli K

Oli Kirke, 16

South Canterbury/Ōtuhituhi

Roncalli College

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

One of my favourite places in Canterbury is the Mt Nimrod Scenic Reserve Walkway. I love hiking in general, but this local walk is like a home to me. I walk into the forest and I have hope.

Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Rōpū?

I often feel like my “voice” is a whisper. Being part of a larger group like this would mean that my “voice” could become louder and more could be done.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

To eliminate greed in favour of kindness and better treatment of the environment.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Honesty, rationality (seeing clearly what’s important and what isn’t) and determination.

Jolie S

Jolie Sarginson, 18

Mana whenua representative - EYR Deputy Chair

University of Canterbury (previously Papanui High School)
Ngāi Tahu - Hokonui, Rangitaane - Tuamātene, Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Kuia

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

New Brighton Beach. It is somewhere I go with my friends to swim and eat ice cream and hot chips on the beach. It also has my favorite thrift stores!

Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Rōpū?

I have a strong passion for New Zealand's natural and cultural environment. Being involved in the Youth Rōpū will give me the opportunity to explore what specific career path I want to take in the future.

It will also give me the opportunity to meet and interact with a group of like-minded individuals who will come together and share our ideas on how we can get involved in leadership and kaitiakitanga as young members of society.

My passion for the natural environment is largely from my cultural background. As a Māori, I feel a strong connection to the earth and its natural resources. It is important that they are cared for and protected for ourselves and generations to come.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

I would definitely want to be able to teleport anywhere, any time. Cat stuck in a tree? I’m there! Craving authentic Indian cuisine? I’d have it in a flash. Wanting to swim but feeling too lazy to bus there? Easy as!

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Attitude, initiative and respect.

Amanda K

Amanda Kennedy, 16

Christchurch West/Ōpuna - EYR Secretary

Papanui High School

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

My favourite place in Canterbury is the mouth of the Hurunui River. It’s a great spot to spend time in regardless of what you are up to. The scenery is gorgeous and my whānau and I love spending time there.

Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Rōpū?

I have always been super interested in engaging with major issues and helping others to engage with them as well. It’s super important as a young person to work to solve today’s issues. Waitaha is a broad region and I think it’s important that young people have their voices heard.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

If I had one superpower it would be the ability to speak any language. Communication is something I value deeply and the ability to converse with anyone from anywhere would be an amazing experience.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Resilience, kaitiakitanga and empathy.

Shelby A

Shelby Allan, 16

Christchurch North East/Ōrei

Papanui High School

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

Arthur’s Pass. I’ve spent a lot of time outdoors there tramping and camping with school, so I have lots of fond memories. The amazing scenery always reminds me of The Lord of the Rings, plus it’s incredibly peaceful.

Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Rōpū?

I’ve always been interested in advocating for the environment and civics education. This seemed like the perfect opportunity to merge the two. The Youth Rōpū seems like an amazing place to learn and grow while increasing the reach of youth participation and voice within Waitaha.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

To be fluent in every language (including dead languages!).

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Respect, passion, resilience.

Mirabel S

Mirabel Southern, 18

Mid-Canterbury/Ōpākihi

Previously Darfield High School

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

The Mount Somers Track. I really like tramping and I have had so many amazing experiences up there. Because of the track’s accessibility, I have been able to share this place with so many people, like my mum and dad. The area is very scenic and there is so much to do. It also has a swing bridge and water caves!

Why are you interested in being involved?

I am passionate about the world’s natural environment and doing what I can to improve its health. I think the Youth Rōpū would be a great way for me to learn about legislation revolving around environmental sustainability, and to be able to work with people who have different perspectives on the environment, whether they align with my own or are different.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

Being able to communicate in any language spoken by humans and also being able to talk to animals.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Sustainability, transparency, and passion.

 

Kyle G

Kyle Galloway, 20

Mid-Canterbury/Ōpākihi

Lincoln University (previously Trident High School, Whakatane)

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

My favourite place is the Port Hills or Sumner. I like the Port Hills because they have some really nice walking tracks and it’s a great place to relax. I also like Sumner - I love the beach during summer so I always like going there with my friends.

Why are you interested in being involved?

I want to be surrounded by like-minded people who are passionate about the environment. I also think it will help develop my leadership skills alongside other great leaders. I am passionate about change and want to be a voice for people.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

Reading minds - I think it would be fun to know what people are thinking.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Kind, positive, and honest.

River

River Lockwood, 15

General member

Cashmere High School

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

Arthur’s Pass because I have camped there a couple of times and have done many hikes. I love exploring the waterfalls, mountains, and forests, and this, combined with the absence of technology, is incredibly peaceful.

Why are you interested in being involved?

I'm really keen to be part of the conversation around what we can all do together to improve the environment of Canterbury and its surrounds.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

Being able to control water and breathe underwater without oxygen tanks.  

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Confidence, honesty and creativity.  

Stacey TPR

Stacey Te Pōhue Rose, 23

Mana whenua representative - EYR Co-Chair

Community Advisor - Youth at The Electoral Commission and Founder of Rōhi Advisory (previously Palmerston North Boys’ High School and Cashmere High School).

Te Rūnaka o Koukourārata, Wairewa Rūnaka, Te Hapū o Kāti Wheke.

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

My favourite place in Waitaha is Te Pātaka o Rakaihautu/Banks Peninsula, but particularly Ōkeina/Okains Bay. These areas have significant meaning to me and my whānau as our tīpuna once breathed the air, sowed the whenua, caught ika from the awa and the moana, and lived in harmony in these areas. I also love the beautiful views, the crisp, cool wai and the wairua that surrounds Te Pātaka o Rakaihautu.

Why are you interested in being involved?

Protecting te taiao is something that has always and will always be apart of my life. The environment is what sustains us as takata and ensures that we can thrive as takata whenua. I also love our taoka, those things we put at the forefront of our being, whether it be our kai, our awa, our moana, our tīpuna, or our mokopuna, these things will always be front of mind and I want to protect te taiao for all of our taoka.

If you could have a super power what would it be?

I would love to have the power of reading minds. I think it would be good to figure out what our rakatira truly think on the matter at hand and that have significance to takata whenua.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Manaakitaka, aroha and tinorakatirataka

Tara D

Tara Docking, 19

Christchurch Central/Ōhoko

University of Canterbury (previously Cashmere High School)

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

My favourite place in Canterbury would have to be the Port Hills. Having grown up with them in my back garden, they always enable the opportunity to connect with friends, whānau and the environment. I regularly walk my dog through the countless tracks found there and enjoy the break from everyday life. As an avid climber the Port Hills offer some of the best sport climbing in Canterbury, and, as a result, I have spent countless hours pushing myself to my limits at the crags found there. Mountain biking is an activity I grew up doing with my Dad and can still connect with him going for a ride through Greenwood Park. Both mountain biking and rock climbing are sports that I can do to help connect me with the environment as I feel an intense sense of respect for the nature that can, at times, hold my life in its hands. To me, the Port Hills represents a place of perseverance, endurance and freedom, where I can push myself to my personal limits, try new things, have a break and connect with both family and friends.

Why do you want to be a part of the Youth Rōpū?

From a young age, I have had a strong interest in the environment and the outdoors which is largely driven by my parents’ similar passion. Spending so much of my childhood exploring New Zealand mountains and landscapes has inspired me to want to aid in the protection and conservation of our natural environment.

My passion for making a change has driven me to pursue a degree in Environmental Science with honours at Canterbury University. I am in my second year of a degree that I hope will give me the skills to one day be a part of improving the way we manage our environment, however, I currently feel that my passions towards making a difference are just empty thoughts.

I want to make real change while I am still young and don’t want to wait however many years it may take until I get into a position where I could be influential. I hope that in joining the Youth Rōpū team, I will get the opportunity to let my voice be heard and take steps towards making real change in the future of environment, especially in Canterbury.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

If I were to have a superpower, it would be shapeshifting for the ability to adapt and change to any environment. I would love to see and experience the world from different perspectives to see different viewpoints. Shapeshifting comes with multiple superpowers in one as it can allow you to shift into a range of creatures with different abilities. For example, I could change into a bird for the ability to fly, a cheetah to be able to run fast or a tiny little bug to become a literal fly on the wall in any situation.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Kaitiakitanga, connection, and determination.

Poppy J C

Poppy Honey Johnston-Coates, 16

General member

Hagley College

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

My love for the Hagley Gardens stems from my experiences as a student of Hagley College. In 2022, it became a place to clear my mind, to study, and helped to ease the transition from a rural town to urban city life.

Parks such as this one provides an oasis for bird life and people alike amidst the concrete jungle of cities. With our proximity to the gardens, Hagley College is joined by the odd kererū and ruru to our campus. I would love to see dedicated trapping initiatives set up in parks such as Hagley so that they may flourish as a place for native bird life in the city.

Why are you interested in being involved?

I come from a family of wilderness-oriented people, where preserving and regenerating our environment has always been a priority. After gaining experience in environmental leadership over my life, I have developed an interest in the governmental aspects of climate policy and activism. I’m in my final year of high school now, and I have plans to study environmental law so that I may continue to work from the heart.

There are so few instances in which Christchurch youth have a space to collaborate. Yet, this Youth Rōpū proves that powerful change can be built when we are united. I have a keen interest in furthering the collaboration of Christchurch schools, doing away with the isolated institution style that our city has become known for, and instead working on social and environmental issues together. This is the passion I bring to the Environment Canterbury Youth Rōpū in 2023.

If you could have a superpower what would it be?

Empath - being able to understand the feelings and emotions of others. Throughout my experience working in climate activism and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have witnessed pointless conflict and miscommunication. I regularly wish that we could have a better understanding of others, particularly those with different world views, so that we may have more productive and empathetic conversations.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Commitment, equality, and learning.

Hadassah T

Hadassah Timo, 14

Christchurch Central/Ōhoko

Hornby High School

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

Cashmere Hill Lookout because you can see everywhere in the city. At night you can get your bearings by the lights or the absence of it. It's nice to see the city and it’s a good place to think.

Why are you interested in being involved?

As a Tagata Moana, I am very aware that I am the Moana (ocean) and the Fanua (Land) and the Moana and Fanua is me. This interconnectedness of self and the elements is a way of living and being. I am passionate about all of the things Environment Canterbury’s Youth Rōpū stands for: the environment, empowerment, and the right for young people to feel confident in having a voice and being heard.

If you could have a super power what would it be?

The power to be invisible.

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Tautua/service, fa'aaloalo/respect, and alofa/love.

James M

James McLennan, 20

Mana whenua member

Arowhenua/University of Canterbury (previously St Thomas of Canterbury College)

What is your favourite place in Canterbury and why?

Christchurch central. Seeing all the new buildings always reminds me of the resilience of our post-earthquake city. Plus, it’s just a generally great, lively place to hang out, with Riverside Market being a favourite place of mine to stop by.

Why are you interested in being involved?

I think that youth engagement, particularly where the environment is concerned (as negative long-term impacts on the environment will be left for us to deal with down the line), is an absolute must. I have loved seeing the communication that has been delivered by the Environment Canterbury Youth Rōpū (EYR), particularly around consultation on the 2022/23 Annual Plan and the general community engagement put together by the group. I would love to contribute to EYR’s past work as well as providing new ideas to help propel the Youth Rōpū forward to do even more good in the future.

If you could have a super power what would it be?

Telekinesis, because I’m a big Star Wars fan. Or possibly teleportation, to save on time and CO2 emissions for overseas travel!

If you only had 3 words to describe your values what would they be?

Resilience, integrity, and kaitiakitanga.

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