Youth Week 2026 Theme Announced: “Our voices matter! We deserve to be heard | Taringa whakarongo! Ki te reo o ngā taiohi!”

Ara Taiohi, the peak body for youth development in Aotearoa, has announced the theme for Youth Week 2026 (18–24 May 2026). The theme, “Our voices matter! We deserve to be heard/ Taringa whakarongo! Ki te reo o ngā taiohi!”, was chosen by young people and people in the youth sector across Aotearoa.

Youth Week is a national celebration of young people. Importantly, Youth Week is for everyone. It’s a chance to celebrate being a young person, or to celebrate a young person in your life - your tamaiti, mokopuna, student, youth group, or someone who inspires you. We're excited to see how everyone interprets "voice", from kōrero and creativity to culture, leadership, and everyday actions.

Across the motu, organisations, schools, councils, youth groups, whānau and workplaces will host events and activities that honour the mana, diversity, and potential of young people.

More information and resources will be available in early 2026.