Youth COP 2026
Description
Do you care about climate action? Want to connect with other young changemakers and help shape solutions for the future?
If you're aged 14–20, join us for Aotearoa's Youth COP 2026! The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the annual United Nations climate conference, bringing together countries that are part of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Each year, government representatives, experts, and advocates come together to review progress, negotiate climate policies, and agree on actions to address the climate crisis.
Our COP will give you a chance to step into the shoes of a COP delegate for the day. Throughout the event, you'll:
See what it is like to take part in climate negotiations
Learn about climate policy, diplomacy, and international decision-making
Collaborate with other young people to tackle real-world climate challenges
Develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
This year's theme: Clear the Way!
Clear the Way! is about making space for new growth, clearing pollution from our air, harmful thinking from our minds, and obstacles from the path ahead. Together, across generations, we’ll create space for rangatahi to lead, speak up and shape a healthier future for our planet.
Workshops
Youth COP 2026 is more than a day of listening, it’s a chance to get involved, ask questions, share ideas and explore what climate action can look like in our communities.
Our workshops will bring together different perspectives, experiences and approaches to help you connect climate issues with the things that matter to you.
Te Mauri o te Wai
Water | Explore our relationship with wai, the impacts of a changing climate, and how we can care for and protect te mauri o te wai for generations to come.
Presented by Erana Whaiapu and Annaleigh Foster.
What will our communities lose?
Loss and Damage | Hosted by 350 Aotearoa and Pacific Powered Peoples, this workshop will look at how we can understand loss and damage in our own communities to understand what we negotiate to protect.
Presented by Nele Kalolo.
Kai and Climate
Food Systems | Explore how our food choices and food systems can either contribute to climate breakdown or help restore and heal our planet.
Facilitated by Peter Bruce-Iri.
Get ready to make your voice heard!
At the end of the event, participants will work together to develop a set of recommendations and key messages reflecting the priorities of children and young people in Aotearoa. These insights will contribute to youth advocacy efforts and help amplify young people's perspectives with decision-makers and climate leaders at local, national, and international levels.
Whether you're passionate about climate action, curious about global politics, or simply want to meet like-minded young people, this is your opportunity to learn, connect, and create change.
The future is yours. Join the conversation and be part of the solution.
50% of all ticket sales will go towards our Venezuela Earthquakes Appeal.
Lineup
Erana Whaiapu
Te Rarawa, Te Aupōuri, Ngāti Paoa, Ngāti Raukawa Erana is a Senior Māori Advisor within Auckland Council’s Education and Community Climate Action Team, delivering Mātātahi Taiao, a Māori-led kaupapa in Te Tāruke ā Tāwhiri, Auckland’s Climate Plan. With a background in teaching and environmental education, Erana is committed to creating pathways for rangatahi leadership and strengthening the relationship between people and te taiao through Māori-led approaches to inform meaningful climate action.
Annaleigh Foster
Waikato-Tainui Annaleigh is an Environmental Services Graduate at Auckland Council. She graduated from the University of Waikato in 2025 with a Bachelor of Climate Change, focusing on Ecology and Biodiversity, as well as Māori and Indigenous Studies. Annaleigh aspires to create spaces that build collective understanding by weaving together western science and mātauranga Māori, to generate meaningful action to protect and restore our taiao for future generations.
Nele Kalolo
Nele (Samoan) is a local organiser for 350 Aotearoa and Communication Lead for MANAVA for Climate Resilience. After attending COP28 in Dubai, Emirates, Nele has focussed much of her work on building local climate actions that celebrate Pacific cultures to amplify Pacific voices in climate decision-making.
Peter Bruce-Iri
Peter Bruce-Iri is a researcher, author, and environmental advocate dedicated to practical, nature-based solutions to the climate crisis. As the Project Lead for Climate Action Tai Tokerau, he works alongside regional communities to build climate resilience, restore ecosystems, and empower local action. He is the author of How Plants Cool and Heal the Climate and Spiritual Solutions for Healing the Climate, which explore how natural living systems, eco-restoration, and shared human values can heal the climate. Through his research and writing, Peter is passionate about equipping young climate leaders with the tools, concepts, and hope needed to drive meaningful environmental change.
FAQs
- Do I need to know anything about climate change or politics before attending?
Not at all! The event is designed for everyone, from complete beginners to experienced climate advocates. We will provide the information, guidance, and support you need throughout the day.
- Who can attend?
This event is open to young people aged 12–20 years who are interested in climate action, leadership, sustainability, advocacy, or learning something new.
- What can I do if I can't afford the ticket price?
If, for any reason, you are unable to pay the ticket registration but would like to attend the event, please contact youth@scnz.org.nz
- What will I do on the day?
You'll participate in:
Climate negotiations and debates
Interactive workshops and discussions
Team activities and problem-solving exercises
A mock COP plenary session
Opportunities to share your ideas and perspectives
- What can I expect from the workshops?
Our workshops are designed to be interactive, accessible and thought-provoking. You’ll have opportunities to learn from our presenters, kōrero with others, ask questions and think about how climate action connects to your own life and community.
- Will I get to meet or talk with the presenters?
Yes! The workshops are designed to create space for kōrero and discussion, so you’ll have opportunities to engage with the presenters and other rangatahi throughout the sessions.
- What if I'm shy or don't like public speaking?
That's completely okay! There are many ways to participate, and you'll be supported throughout the day. The focus is on learning, collaboration, and sharing ideas in a welcoming environment.
- Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?
No preparation is required. Any resources and information needed for the simulation will be provided to participants before or during the event.
- What should I bring?
Please bring:
A refillable water bottle
A notebook or device for taking notes (optional)
Your curiosity and enthusiasm!
- How does this relate to the real COP?
The simulation is inspired by the real COP process and gives participants a hands-on understanding of how international climate negotiations work. While simplified, it reflects many of the challenges and opportunities faced by world leaders and negotiators.
- Will there be food?
Yes! Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are provided as part of the event.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
