There are at least 100 young people in Nelson who challenge the popular stereotypes of their age group.

They range from rat trappers to kapa haka performers - and they've all been nominated for this year's Youth Volunteer Awards. The awards are the main Nelson event for National Youth Week (May 15 - 21), which has Redefining Stereotypes as its theme.

The awards will be presented at a celebration at the Hub youth centre on Wednesday May 17th from 6.30-9.30pm with bands, entertainment, food and spot prizes. Young people are organizing the event, with support from Volunteer Nelson and The Hub. The Nelson City and Tasman District Youth Councils are also donating money towards prizes for five special awards.

Hub youth worker Sally Wood says the awards recognize thousands of hours of voluntary time given to the Nelson/Tasman regions by young people.

ENDS