This year's Youth Week event was one we'll never forget.
Thank you to our youth debaters who have raised their concerns surrounding the importance of youth voices. You have proven that adults must practice what they preach and that many fail to recognise the power of a younger voice.
And thank you to all 107 of YOU that showed up to hear what these amazing people had to say.
Below are some thoughtful words from some of our speakers:
"When I first arrived, it was incredible to see how many people had turned up — not just the youth, but members of the older generation as well. As the debate began, I have to admit that our leadership team was nervous. After speaking with Lee and Max the week before, it was clear that the Marlborough Debate Team had built a strong reputation. Even our police representative joked, “I’d rather face five gang members than debate these students — I’m worried!”
We had all prepared thoroughly on the topic, but once the debate team truly found their voice, it was something special to witness. The entire leadership team was in awe of the students’ confidence, intelligence, and ability to communicate their ideas so effectively. It is reassuring to know that our future is in the hands of such capable young people — and, most importantly, that they know their voices are being heard."
— Matt Flight, Labour Candidate for Kaikoura Electorate
"Kia ora team, Thank you so much for having me, and for trusting me to take part in the debate.
Ironically, I refused to do my 5th form English speech because I was terrified of public speaking, so this was a personal growth moment for me! But more than that, I left genuinely blown away by the rangatahi involved. Even debating from opposite sides, it was impossible not to see how thoughtful, articulate, and passionate everyone was. I’d love to see this conversation continue beyond the debate itself, something youth-led, like a survey asking the questions young people actually want answered. As Lizzie said, ‘young people should be allowed to enjoy being young, instead of worrying about adult responsibilities’
So thank you all, from my 15yo self especially, for creating a safe space where rangatahi are encouraged to speak, challenge ideas, and be heard. I’m really looking forward to continuing these conversations and seeing where they lead 
ENROL TO VOTE!"
— Aimee Payne, 2025 Council Candidate & Green Party Member
"The Youth Week Debate Event run by the Marlborough Youth Debate Club was a really interesting experience for me. While I was a bit sceptical about having to argue a side that I did not fully agree with, I was surprised by the amount of evidence that I found to support my argument, making it easier to get my point across. Although I was nervous going into the debate, once the floor was opened, I felt a lot more comfortable and found the event really rewarding."
— Oscar Mason, 2026 Marlborough Boys' College Deputy Head Boy
"An amazing opportunity with passionate people. I was a bit nervous going into it, but after a while it started to feel more natural. The opposition raised some strong points, so we had to think on our feet quickly. With every point brought up, it reinforced the idea that youth voice truly matters. Overall, it was a great night that helped people better understand young people’s perspectives on many issues and spread awareness about the importance of youth voice."
— Jack Powell, 2026 Marlborough Boys’ College Environmental Prefect
We can't wait to see you next time!