As summer approaches, thousands of teenagers will soon flock to holiday hotspots across the country – including Wānaka – to celebrate the New Year.

For many, it’s their first taste of freedom away from parents, filled with excitement, independence, and expectations. Yet these celebrations can quickly become risky when alcohol and other substances are involved.

Here in Wānaka, in the days leading up to New Years Eve, large groups of underage teens start to gather in town. While most simply want to enjoy time with friends, the combination of youth, alcohol, and inexperience can lead to harm.

Ensuring young people stay safe is not the responsibility of one group alone – it’s something we all share. That’s why Red Frogs, QLDC and other community partners dedicate significant resources each year to reducing alcohol-related harm.

Parents also play a vital role in helping their teenagers prepare for a safe and positive experience, wherever they are celebrating.

Here are Red Frogs’ top tips for parents this New Year:

• Talk openly: Have honest conversations with your teen about their plans, expectations, and how to handle tricky situations.
• Pack pre-made meals: Nutritious food helps teens stay healthy and energised throughout the week – and is kinder on your wallet!
• Avoid supplying alcohol: Even with good intentions, research shows giving alcohol to teens increases the likelihood of harmful drinking later in life.
• Encourage hydration: Remind them to drink plenty of water. Pack bottles of water, electrolyte drinks, or hydrating snacks such as watermelon.
• Plan regular check-ins: Set up agreed times to message or call. Keeping communication open helps them know you’re there for support whenever they need you.
• Promote sticking together: Encourage them to stay with their friends and look out for one another.
• Know when to call for help: Teach your teen that calling 111 in an emergency is always the right choice – first responders are there to help.
• Connect with Red Frogs: Red Frogs teams will be present in Wanaka, Queenstown, and festivals nationwide, offering water, pancakes, and a friendly chat.

Keeping our young people safe during New Year’s celebrations takes a village. By working together – parents, communities, and support services – we can make sure the memories they make are happy and harm-free

To keep up to date on all things New Years and summer festivals, parents can also join the ‘Red Frogs New Years’ Advice for Parents’ Facebook Group.

About Red Frogs:

Red Frog volunteers are a global initiative and a support program for young people from the ages of 15 – 25. Red Frogs recognise that the culture of young people is dominated by alcohol and that excessive consumption of alcohol and other substances can lead to dangerous and life-altering behaviours. 

Therefore Red Frogs make it their mission to provide a positive peer presence in alcohol-fuelled environments where young people gather, educate young people on safe partying behaviours, and promote and provide non-alcoholic and/or diversionary activities that engage young people in these environments.

Find out more about Red Frogs, including our New Year's response here.