The Bay of Plenty Regional Council building on Elizabeth Street recently hosted the first Instep Young Leaders Business Breakfast involving all three local councils. The event offered students a unique opportunity to connect with local government representatives, gain insight into how decisions are made, and explore the kinds of careers that exist within the public sector.

Students were welcomed with a breakfast spread and greeted at the door by representatives from each council, creating a genuine moment of connection and setting a welcoming tone for the morning ahead.

Council representatives included:

• Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC): Councillor Kat Macmillan, Councillor Jane Nees, Stephanie Macdonald, Danielle Guy, and Freya Cambrun.
• Tauranga City Council (TCC): Councillor Kevin “Herb” Schuler, Buddy Meyer, Alana Rapson, and Kate Akers.
• Western Bay of Plenty District Council (WBOPDC): Jodie Rickard.

The morning began with a light icebreaker, encouraging students to identify the responsibilities of each council. It was a simple activity, but one that helped to clarify the wide range of roles and responsibilities that shape how our communities function.

Students then took their seats inside the BOPRC chambers for three structured mock council sessions focused on topical issues: Biosecurity, Geothermal Management, and Climate Change. Each session was run like a real council meeting, complete with roles, agendas, discussion, and voting. Students rotated through different positions, building their understanding of how decisions are made and how diverse perspectives contribute to outcomes.

Many students stepped out of their comfort zones — asking questions, challenging ideas, and expressing their views. One student noted that they entered the room with a clear opinion based on the agenda, but after hearing different perspectives, they changed their mind. It was a clear example of how open discussion helps build stronger, more informed decisions.

These types of events play an important role in preparing young people for the future of work. They help develop essential skills such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, while also giving students exposure to industries and roles they might not otherwise consider.

The councils involved represent a broad range of career paths — from environmental science and planning to community engagement, policy, and infrastructure. For many students, this was a first glimpse into the scope of work happening in our region and the different ways they can contribute to its future.

It also gives employers and local leaders a chance to see the potential within our youth. The creativity, curiosity, and leadership emerging from our youth is something to be nurtured. The combined councils breakfast is a reminder that if we want to retain and grow our region’s talent, we need to keep creating spaces where young people can explore, engage, and envision a future for themselves here.

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How you can get involved

We invite businesses, organisations, and community leaders to support these efforts. Whether through student site visits, mentoring, internships, or simply sharing your own career story, your involvement can help young people better understand the opportunities available to them.

If you’re interested in contributing to future events or would like to learn more, contact Instep Manager Michelle Clarke at michelle@priorityone.co.nz.

Let’s work together to build pathways for our young people — and a stronger future for our region.