With nearly 40 percent of Porirua city's population under the age of 25, mayoral hopefuls are making their pitch to the youth.
But an annual council stock-take shows children and young people are struggling, and losing faith in the local authority. Last year a spate of youth suicides raised alarm bells.
Young people say they're worried about being shut out of housing, mental health treatment, and decisions on combating climate change.
Laura Dooney asked some of the mayoral contenders what they'll do if elected.
