Young people throughout Tauranga and the Western Bay are being challenged to put their Easter holiday to good use by getting serious about the environment.

Easter is the perfect time for young people, aged 12 to 24, to unleash their creative talents and get their entry ready for the 2016 Enspire Challenge.

Inaugural Enspire Challenge winner Rebekah Richards receiving her prize from Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor David Love last year. Photo: File.

The challenge gives young locals a chance to share their passion and concerns for the environment and to inspire the community to take good care of their future.

Entrants can choose from three themes: profiling an environmental community group; protecting Tauranga harbour and waterways; and climate change and sustainability.

Tauranga City Council Sustainability Advisor Michelle Elborn says it doesn't take much to create an entry – just a mobile phone and a passion for the environment.

'There is still time to test your skills even if you have never made a video before, why not give it a go?” Michelle asks.

'You never know your efforts could secure you some local fame and up to $500 in prizes. Pick up your camera or smartphone and have some fun.”

The winner of last year's inaugural challenge was Bay of Plenty Polytech marine studies student Rebekah Richards whose video ‘There's a Problem in our Backyard' exposed the harm littering has on local wildlife at Mount Maunganui.

The then 20-year-old used puppets in her entry to capture the public's attention and delivers a strong environmental action message.

Michelle says the organisers were so impressed with the entries last year's that they can't wait to see what they receive this year.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Community Engagement Advisor Stephanie Macdonald is also looking forward to seeing entries promoting a healthy Tauranga harbour.

'Clean water, a healthy harbour and thriving wildlife are essential ingredients for life, work and play in the Western Bay.”

While Western Bay of Plenty District Council Community Development Advisor Glenn Ayo says he's excited to see local community groups being profiled.

'We have some fantastic groups doing great work for our communities, and it would be awesome to see these groups working with young people to profile what they do.”

Entries for the 2016 Enspire Challenge are now open and close on April 1.

The winning video will be shown at TEDx Tauranga 2016, while the the top three entrants will all receive Prezzy cards.

For more information visit: www.taurangacity.govt.nz/enspire