It's time for New Zealand's youth to debate the issues they are passionate about on the national stage.

Applications are now open for the 2022 Electorate Youth MP, and Tauranga MP Simon Bridges is inviting young people aged 16-18 years to apply.

Youth MPs participate in the country's Youth Parliament as representatives of themselves and their community, and are encouraged to use the experience to speak about matters that are important to them.

'This is a fantastic opportunity for young people in our community to engage in the political process, seek out and share the views and opinions of their peers, and even have a little fun,” says Simon.

'I'm looking for applicants who are active in our community, enthusiastic about youth issues, politics or social change, and willing to put their best foot forward for Tauranga.”

If successful, the Tauranga Youth MP will need to manage the time commitment from March 1 to August 31, 2022. They will travel to Wellington to attend Youth Parliament on July 19-20, with all expenses paid by the Ministry of Youth Development.

While in the capital, Youth MPs will experience all aspects of parliament, including question time, select committees, general debate and the legislative process, as well as being part of a political party and discussing how conscience votes are made.

In addition to the 120 Youth MPs, there are also 20 positions for Youth Press Gallery members and one Youth Clerk role.

Simon says applying to be his Youth MP is straight forward for any youth living in the Tauranga Electorate who has an interest in youth issues, politics and/or social change.

'All they have to do is shoot a three-minute video introducing themselves, telling me what they're passionate about, what they would advocate for in Youth Parliament and why I should select them. It's that simple.”

Applications are open now, and close on Friday, November 12. For more information, visit: www.simonbridges.national.org.nz/youth_mp_2022