Tauranga youth are diving into the Clean It Up! event, offering students a chance to make a tangible impact on their environment while earning volunteer hours on Saturday.

The event, organised by Youth Voices Action, will feature heaps of spot prizes and giveaways.

People are asked to meet at Maxwells Rd, Ōtūmoetai to help with the clean up which  will run from 9.45am - 12pm, on Saturday, March 22 in the Waikareao Estuary .

Youth Voices Action general manager Erika Harvey said "this isn't just another clean-up".

"This is about showing up for our environment, connecting with new people, and proving that the next generation is ready to do more than just talk."

She's encouraging all students, schools, and community members to get involved.

The Clean It Up! event, which goes beyond just picking up litter, is about uniting individuals with a shared commitment to protecting the environment. It also offers a fun opportunity to meet like-minded people, enjoy good vibes, and win free prizes. 

Adam McLean, a member of the Youth Panel, is calling his peers to action.

“We all post about climate change, but how many of us actually get out there and do something? This is our chance. A couple of hours of effort can make a huge difference, and it’s a cool way to meet people who care about the same stuff.”

The Powerco Community Fund, which is currently open for a new round of funding, is backing the event. This fund supports community-driven projects, such as Clean It Up!, helping transform ideas into meaningful action.

Lisa Zawitkoski from Trueman & Co, who ran a pilot and pitched this initiative to the Youth Panel, sees the event as a game-changer. 

“The youth panel didn’t just sign off on this—they owned it. They saw the impact we could have, and now it’s growing into something bigger. We’re excited to see where it goes next," Zawitkoski said.

“This is about more than just picking up rubbish," Harvey said.

"It’s about connection, stepping up, and seeing what happens when we work together. Bring your mates, grab some gloves, and let’s make an impact, plus, who doesn’t love winning free stuff while doing something good?”

The event is supported by partners including Powerco, Tauranga City Council, and Envirohub, who have made the event possible.

We’re always looking for new ways to make a difference, and we can’t wait to see young people, schools, and community groups come together in fresh and meaningful ways," Harvey said.

For more information, or to register your school or group, visit Youth Voices Action Clean It Up or email hello@youthvoicesaction.org.nz.