Three Bay of Plenty communities are going to be included in the Youth in Emergency Services, with Youth Minister Nikki Kaye announcing an extra $100,000 in funding to expand the programme.

Katikati, Maketu and Murupara are among 10 new communities around the country to benefit, mean up to 16 young people in each place can be part of the programme in 2015.

Nikki says this is an exciting programme that opens the door for young people to volunteer or follow a career path in emergency services, such as fire, ambulance and search and rescue.

'From chatting to communities where the programme has already run, I know what a boost it can be for areas that struggle to find volunteers.

'At the same time, the programme engages young people, helps them learn valuable skills and enables them to serve their community in a meaningful way.”

Nikki says the programme is also opportunity for young people to grow their confidence and capabilities, 'and I'm thrilled that 160 more budding emergency professionals can seize this opportunity next year”.

For more information on the programme, see www.myd.govt.nz/young-people/youth-in-emergency-services.html