Media release
11 September 2002

Youth Week ‘Packs a Punch’

One of the many Youth Week events that took place in Manukau last week was Manukau City Council’s “Youth Information Stand” at the Westfield Manukau Shopping Centre.

Throughout the day on Thursday 5 September the stand informed young people and their families of the many opportunities for young people in the Manukau area. Information included recreational pursuits, how to join a local youth working party, career counselling, training opportunities and how to become a member of the Manukau Youth Congress.

Council’s community advisor, Paul Peteru, says that support at the stand was tremendous. “We had youth from Papatoetoe, and students from AUT and the Auckland College of Education on hand to play host and get information out to people young and old.

Paul says “There was a strong focus on assisting young people make informed choices in their lives based on receiving critical information that may make a difference to them…the day’s efforts were boosted by the participation on the stand by local and international boxing icon David Tua, along with New Zealand Warriors Ali Lauiti’iti, Henry Fa’afili, Monty Betham and Jeremaiah Pai.

Manukau City Council, Community Employment Group, Skills NZ, Careers NZ, Youth Law, Youth Courts, and the Auckland District Health Board all contributed information for display.

The initiative was one of Council’s strategies to building stronger and healthier communities. “We hope that young and old alike will have reflected during Youth Week about the future of Manukau, its people and its future leaders. Young people perhaps more now than ever require the love, support and assistance of family and friends to feel they are valued citizens in their own right,” said Paul.

ENDS

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