As of next month, the region will have its first club formed especially to help the young and career-minded mix and mingle their way to the top.

The club, called Taranaki Young Professionals (TYP), was the idea of a group of determined New Plymouth lasses who felt the region was lagging behind its bigger-city counterparts.

Accountant Louise O'Dea, 27, who is president of TYP, said the idea was born when she returned to Taranaki, after travelling and university, to find there was nothing for young people who wanted to meet others of similar ilk.

"There's no way here for people to network – most other regions have a group. Everyone I've talked to feels like it's something that is missing," Miss O'Dea said.

Gym manager Gina Hamerton, 26, said the group would be aimed at those in the first 15 years of their career, but membership criteria was pretty broad.

"It's anyone who considers themselves professional, really. From gardeners to builders to doctors to engineers and people who run their own business."

There are also plans to get inspirational local people as speakers. "It's going to be all about upskilling and networking, plus there will be a bit of a social side too."

Marketing manager Adelle Barnett, 24, said they also wanted to involve local businesses by creating a membership card and offering members certain benefits.

TYP will have its launch on November 26 at Puke Ariki Landing. Anyone interested in joining can contact the group at taranakiyp@gmail.com. Membership will be $20 per annum.

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