January 24, 2006

Active advocate accepts physical challenge

Nigel Mercuur reckons he's got his dream job - he is the city's new active youth advocate.

A keen sportsman himself, the Birkenhead resident aims to get nine to 15-year-olds to share his passion and become more active in their own leisure time.

That's the goal of the council's Youth Destinations Plan, in which Sport and Recreation New Zealand (SPARC) has invested $615,000 over three years under its Active Communities initiative.

"I'll be working with groups to make sure there are plenty of places for young people to go and things for them to do in our city," he says.

The Youth Destinations Plan was put together after consultation with the North Shore Youth Council, community boards and community co-ordinators, and surveys at the places young people enjoy.

"It's very exciting to be involved in something that gives young people the opportunity to improve their lifestyle and their health, and that will provide so much enjoyment," he says.

Nigel Mercuur has an Bachelor of Administration in Public and Development Management with honours from the University of Stellenbosch, and worked in local government in his native South Africa.

He also worked for Development Action in South Africa, a student non-profit organisation involved in community development projects and development research.

ENDS

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