Youth

YMCA Youth

Where young people belong, grow and thrive

At the Y, we believe every young person should have the opportunity to feel connected, supported and confident in who they are and where they are going. Y Central runs youth programmes and services across the lower North Island, responding to the needs of young people in our communities. Our youth programmes create safe, welcoming spaces where rangatahi can build relationships, develop new skills, explore pathways into education and employment, and have their voices heard.

Check out our centres and youth programmes below to find out more.

25,000

Visits to Te Tai Ohinga Youth Hub last year

68%

Successfully reintegrate to mainstream education, higher education or work. (Compared to national average of 40%)

$2,100,000

Community Investment from Y Central back into youth programmes

Wellington - Central

Te Tai Ohinga Youth Hub

Located at 203 Willis Street, Te Tai Ohinga is a dedicated space for taiohi to come together, create and connect in a safe inclusive and welcoming environment. The design reflects the needs and wants of local taiohi and provides a platform for further inspiration. The space will offer a social lounge area, a podcasting room, gaming zone, study spaces, and kitchen available to use free of charge, and accessible for people with disabilities.

More about Te Tai Ohinga

Wellington - Karori

Karori Youth Hub

The Karori Youth Hub provides a welcoming space where rangatahi can connect, take part in activities and have a stronger voice in their community. Delivered by Y Central in partnership with Karori Community Centre, and supported by Karori Rotary, Karori Lions, Karori Business Association, Karori Baptist Church, St Mary’s Anglican Church, St Anselm’s Union Church and The Street West Church, the hub focuses on belonging, wellbeing, leadership and creating positive opportunities for young people.

Whanganui

Y Pakohe Alternative Education

Y Pakohe Alternative Education supports rangatahi aged 12 -17 who need a different pathway through education. Based in Whanganui, the programme provides a safe, supportive and relationship-based learning environment for young people who may not be thriving in mainstream schooling. Alongside education, our team works closely with rangatahi and whānau to build confidence, strengthen wellbeing and help young people reconnect with learning and their future. Through mentoring, practical support and personalised pathways, Y Pakohe helps rangatahi move towards further education, training, employment and greater independence.

Palmerston North

Y Rangitahi Ora

Rangatahi Ora supports young people in Palmerston North who have become disconnected from mainstream education and need extra support to move forward. Referred through Oranga Tamariki, rangatahi receive mentoring, practical support and opportunities to build confidence, strengthen life skills and reconnect with learning. The goal is to help each young person move toward education, training or another positive pathway.