Council is promoting an online space for youth, with discussion topics that could help inform future council decisions.

Answers will be compiled into a six-monthly report to Council, so councillors can be kept up to date with the latest thinking from young people.

Earlier this year Council gave $15,000 to Base Youth Centre to run a youth advisory group.

Council also funds Digital Waitaha who provide digital safety support for youth and Safer Mid Canterbury who provide youth, family and wellbeing services.

Young people are encouraged to join the online conversation at https://itsourplace.nz/youth-hub.

Climate change, artificial intelligence and driver licensing were three of many topics raised by local students at a youth forum held last month in the Council Chamber.

Mayor Neil Brown said the Council heard from nine schools in the district with their ideas for what Ashburton District might look like in the year 2045.

“We heard from a wide range of students from primary right through to college age and a good mix of rural and urban voices,” he said.

“The youth forum is something Council used to do five or so years ago and we’ve brought it back because hearing directly from young people is important for our decision-making.”

“They are Ashburton District’s leaders of the future.”

Suggestions from students included a commuter train to Christchurch, multi-sport development at EA Networks Centre and even a giant rooster statue.

The meeting was livestreamed on Council’s Facebook and YouTube channels.