Chance to become Youth Parliamentarian

Young Wakatipu people are invited to apply now to be a part of Youth Parliament 2013 and become a voice of their generation.

The successful candidate will join 121 other Youth MPs when they take over New Zealand's Parliament on July 16 and 17.

Clutha-Southland MP Bill English called for applications from young people aged between 16 and 18 to be included in his Youth MP selection process for the Clutha Southland Electorate.

''I want to hear from young people who are willing to get out and engage with the youth in their community to gather their views and represent them in Parliament,'' Mr English said.

Youth Parliament 2013 was described as a significant opportunity for young New Zealanders to share their views and the views of their peers with the country's decision-makers.

Held once every parliamentary term, Youth Parliament gives young people the opportunity to understand and participate in Parliament and the decision-making process.

Nominated Youth MPs will hold the title from May 1 to December 31 this year. They are expected to live and engage with their community during their tenure, so all New Zealand youth has the chance to have their voice heard.

Youth Parliament 2013 was organised by the Ministry of Youth Development in collaboration with the Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Office of the Clerk, the Parliamentary Service and New Zealand's 121 members of Parliament.

Anyone interested in becoming a Youth MP should contact Mr English via his offices in Queenstown, Gore and Balclutha. Application forms are also available in Wakatipu High School.

The deadline for applications is in mid-