A “rad day” is being planned at Masterton’s skatepark to celebrate national Youth Week.
Mākoura College student Zyniah Quinn-Mclean, alongside the Masterton District Youth Council, is organising the afternoon event next Saturday, with a line-up of skate competitions, spot prizes, virtual reality [VR] headset fun, art activities, live music and a sausage sizzle.
Zyniah is working with Masterton District Council [MDC] on a 10-week mentorship programme, learning event management. The timing is perfect for Youth Week, which runs from May 15-21.
“We are putting on a rad day at the Masterton Skatepark,” Zyniah said. “Masterton District Youth Council will be there to support on the day, as well as Masterton Library staff with VR headsets.
“OnBoard Skate [skateboard school] are running best skate and scooter trick comps with some giveaways.”
Zyniah and the Youth Council have put out a call on social media and to local schools, asking for youth interested in performing on the day.
“We’ve only had a few come back to us so far, so people should get in contact if they’re keen,” Zyniah said.
Youth Council member Grace McPartland said: “People heading to the event will be able to spend time in nature and the local environment – enjoying the skatepark, connecting with the community and friends, and meeting new people. The afternoon will be one to remember.”
Grace recently formed a submission on MDC’s annual plan on behalf of the Youth Council. The submission includes ideas to reduce the rates impact in Masterton, ideas on the new civic facility and the library, and some possible additions to Masterton – including a proposal to join the Five Towns Trail and become a member of the Dark Sky Reserve.
Grace, along with other Youth Council members, will attend a hearing with MDC in two weeks to discuss the annual plan submission.
Ella Hall, MDC community activator, community development, said the Youth Council would meet soon to plan what it wants to achieve for 2023, and would be consulted on other pieces of work throughout the year, such the Rangatahi Strategy Review.
Meanwhile, Carterton District Council has appointed a new Youth Development Co-ordinator. The council was looking forward to planning events for youth, a spokesperson said.
The Masterton Skatepark youth event is on Saturday, May 20, from 12pm-4pm. For more information, or to get involved, email [email protected]
