They started last month working with Ngai Tuahuriri and Taumutu hapu to restore sights of significance to Ngai Tahu iwi.

“The project is providing local youth with essential work and training that is both self empowering and industry transferrable,” Mr Gilmore says.

“This will create a Ngai Tahu workforce who are knowledgeable in local tradition and tikanga, working alongside six papatipu runanga in the areas of eco-restoration, redevelopment and protection.”

Community Max targets unskilled 16- to 24-year-olds with low or no qualifications whose chances of getting work is limited. It consists of $40.3 million of funding to support up to 3000 places on community projects for young people.

“This is a good opportunity for communities to play a part in addressing the serious issue of youth unemployment,” Mr Gilmore says.

“This is all about providing opportunities – National sees this as a very positive approach to addressing youth unemployment while helping fund useful community projects.

“Communities, through local councils, the Mayors Taskforce, iwi, and Pacific groups are being asked to identify projects for their young people to work on. This is a win-win situation.”

Community Max subsidises a young person at the minimum wage for 30 hours a week for 26 weeks. There is a training component of up to $1250 for each young person, plus a project supervisor for every four workers.

“We’re looking to all kinds of community groups to come forward with their ideas.”

Work and Income is managing Community Max. Organisations can call 0800 778 008 if they would like to take part in the programme which finishes in December next year.