Tauranga MP Simon Bridges is seeking young people keen on politics to be part of this year's Youth Parliament.

Anyone aged between 16 to 18-years-old can apply to be included in the Youth MP selection process for the Tauranga electorate.

The successful applicant will join 121 other youth representatives from around the country to take over Parliament on 16 and 17 July.

'I want to hear from young people who are willing to get out and engage with the youth in their community to gather their views and represent them in Parliament” says Simon.

Simon invites those interested to submit an essay of 500 words answering the question 'what will be a key challenge facing New Zealand in 2020?”

The successful applicants will be shortlisted, and then interviewed by a panel. The Youth MP will then be selected to represent Tauranga in Wellington at the Youth Parliament on 16 and 17 July 2013.

Youth Parliament 2013 is a significant opportunity for young New Zealanders to share their views and the views of their peers with the country's decision-makers, says Simon.

Held once every parliamentary term, Youth Parliament gives young people the opportunity to understand and participate in Parliament and the decision-making process.

Nominated Youth MPs will hold the title from 1 May to 31 December 2013. They are expected to engage with their community during this time, so all New Zealand youth have the opportunity to have their voice heard.

Youth Parliament 2013 is organised by the Ministry of Youth Development in collaboration with the Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Office of the Clerk, the Parliamentary Service and New Zealand's 121 Members of Parliament.

Anyone interested in becoming a Youth MP should contact my office at 07 579 9016 or [email protected] or contact the Ministry of Youth Development at

[email protected]