A Queenstown teenager has won a design competition by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) encouraging young people to vote in the local election.

Frida Rylev, 16, won the competition with her poster ‘Your Vote Matters!’.

The competition was open to 15-20 year olds across Queenstown Lakes and Frida said she jumped at the chance to enter.

“When this competition came up, I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to get my name out there and try to emulate a different style of graphic design than I had been doing and to try a more professional, commercial approach,” she said.

Voting in the local body elections is currently open and closes Saturday October 8 at noon.

Frida’s winning design on the back of a bus.

QLDC electoral officer Jane Robertson said it was great to have young people participating in the competition and showing an interest in elections – even though Frida can’t yet vote.

“Our youth are the voters of the future,” Jane said. “Encouraging them to learn about how our local government system works for the communities it represents, and how they can participate, and influence decisions is hugely positive.” 

“This competition was a small, creative step towards generating youth interest in the election process.”

The Year 12 Wakatipu High School student has a strong passion for art subjects, especially graphic design.

Her design caught the judging panel’s attention for its simplicity, which was important given the design has been printed onto the back of a bus.

“The design is bold and eye-catching. We’re impressed with the professional level of Frida’s work,” Jane said.

Find everything you need to know about the election at the Election 2022 button on the Wānaka App.

PHOTOS: QLDC