From environmental action and volunteering through to leadership, community service and everyday acts of kindness, young people across the Howick area are continuing to make a real difference in their communities.
Now, those efforts are being recognised through Youth Project NZ’s Youth Volunteer Awards Night, with nominations officially open for outstanding young people aged 12–24 across East and South Auckland.
With more than 30 per cent of Howick's population under the age of 25, empowering young people to participate, lead and contribute remains a key priority for the Howick Local Board.
Deputy Chair and a youth himself, Kai Zeng says, “There are so many young people across our community quietly doing amazing things — volunteering, supporting others, leading projects and stepping up when help is needed. These awards are a great way to recognise those efforts and celebrate the positive impact young people are having every day. If you know someone who deserves a shout-out, make sure you nominate them.”
The awards celebrate rangatahi who consistently give their time, energy and care to uplift those around them — whether that’s through local events, helping community groups, supporting environmental initiatives or simply showing up for others when needed.
Award categories include:
- Community
- Environmental
- Intergenerational
- Star
- Group
and Kindness — recognising the many different ways young people contribute to stronger, more connected communities.
Youth Project NZ, a charitable trust based in East Auckland, has been helping build those connections through free programmes available to schools and individuals from Years 0–13. The organisation works to connect young people with their communities early, helping foster confidence, belonging and active citizenship through volunteering and community participation.
Research continues to show that volunteering and acts of kindness can positively impact wellbeing, self-esteem and social connection — especially for young people.
If you know a young person or group making a positive impact in the community, now is the time to nominate them.
Nominations close 17 July. Visit Youth Project NZ for more information and to submit a nomination.
Stay connected
Sign up to receive the Howick Local Board monthly e-newsletters.