IN THIS SECTION

Governance Policies
Board of Directors
Role of Board & Management
Governance Committees
Board Members

GOVERNANCE OF THE Y

As a not for profit organisation we are committed to helping build strong kids, families and communities in an ethical and sustainable way.

Here, we provide an overview of the organisation’s governance, and associated practices and policies.

Board of Directors

The Board is committed to the highest standards of ethical behaviour and accountability. It operates under a Charter, the purpose of which is to promote high standards of governance and clarity of their own role and responsibilities.

Broadly, the role of the Board is to provide leadership and strategic guidance for YMCA Central in addition to overseeing management’s implementation of strategic initiatives.

The Board meets on a regular basis to contribute to and approve the strategic direction of YMCA Central and significant organisational strategic initiatives.  Its emphasis is on outward vision and strategic leadership, cultivating a diversity of viewpoints, collective decision making and safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults.

The Board is committed to the highest standards of ethical behaviour and accountability. It operates under a Charter, the purpose of which is to promote high standards of governance and clarify of their own role and responsibilities.

Role of the Board & Management

The Board has responsibility for the affairs and activities of YMCA Central. The Board recognises the importance of focusing on governance of the business and value growth, rather than management of the business. The Chief Executive is charged with the day-to-day running of the organisation, and provides the principal link between the Board and management, acting within authorities delegated by the Board.

YMCA Governance Committees

The Y enjoys the benefit of a close Staff-Director partnership through our Committees, strengthening the inherent trust between both roles and providing tangible support and improved knowledge sharing.

Committees of the Board play an important role in achieving the good governance of YMCA Central and delivering the vision of our strategic plan.

Committee members are appointed by the Board. The Chair, by right of office is a member of each Committee.

Risk, Audit and Finance

Chair – Nick Evans
Members – Marina Cook, Christopher Russell, Ian Craigie, Virginia Liu

Annual Reports

YMCA Central’s Annual Report details our financial information and explains our operations and the scope of our business.

To review the latest Financial Annual Report please click here.

Board Members
Eileen Basher
Eileen BasherBoard Chair
Eileen became involved with the YMCA as a Board member for Greater Wellington in 2018, concurrently serving on the National Board for 4 years 2020-2024 (two of which as President).  Eileen became chair of Y Central in 2025.
Eileen was lucky to develop her leadership skills as part of Y programmes as a teenager, which has served her well though her career in both the Public and Private sectors.  Her governance skills have been developed over many years within the Crown sector and more lately in the for-purpose sector.
Murray Corps
Murray CorpsDirector
Murray has been involved in the YMCA since 1976 and has held a number of positions over the years including being a participant, staff, management, governance and a trustee. Murray believes that the values of the Y should be central to life and the wellbeing of all people in the community. The Y, operating since 1861, has shown over many years its willingness and ability to adapt to the ever changing needs of the community. This is what makes the Y unique in its approach to supporting its communities – now and into the future. Murray has strong business skills currently operating four companies with seven businesses from multiple locations.
Sam Anderson
Sam AndersonDirector
Sam is an experienced leader and business professional with a strong background in transformational programmes across health and education. Over the past fifteen years, she has led major initiatives including the implementation of the End of Life Choice Act and several education sector reforms. A qualified programme and change management specialist, Sam is committed to community, stakeholder engagement, and creating positive, meaningful change. She previously served as Board Chair for Youthline Wellington and continues on the National Steering Committee. Passionate about supporting rangatahi and tamariki through holistic, joined‑up services, she sees joining the Y‑Central Board as a natural extension of her governance and community work.
Nick Evans
Nick EvansDirector
Nick recently relocated from Invercargill to Wellington for work and at the same time shifted from the Y Southland Board to the Y Central Board. Nick is an accomplished leader with established skills in strategy, relationship management, governance, change management and operational management. Nick is also very passionate about the Y and leads the relationship with the National Y movement.
Catherine Jones
Catherine JonesDirector
Catherine is the Chief Executive of Creative HQ. Since 2018, she has led programmes supporting ventures focused on creating economic, social, cultural and environmental prosperity. She brings extensive strategic, financial and governance experience from her prior career in investment banking and law, where she advised on complex transactions and cross-border opportunities. Catherine grew up participating in YMCA activities.  She brings a strong commitment to sustainable organisational growth, stakeholder stewardship, and long-term impact to her governance roles within the community sector. 
David Campbell
David CampbellDirector
An experienced lawyer, David has worked in public and private practice, in NZ and Australia, as well as the offshore fiduciary services industry in the Cook Islands and the Seychelles. Strong governance skills and experience, with current board roles on other “for-purpose” charitable organisations, in youth health and community welfare sectors, and is a chartered member of the NZ Institute of Directors.

David wholeheartedly supports the Y’s vision to ‘build strong kids, strong families and strong communities’ – and its core role, connecting people to their communities to live happier, healthier lives. David joined the board in January 2026.

Rebecca Bullen
Rebecca BullenShadow Board Member
Rebecca works in the Financial Assurance sector, supporting organisations across a number of industries with a strong sense of curiosity and integrity. Her background previously spans youth work and legal studies, giving her a broad perspective she hopes to bring to governance. Born and raised in Wellington, she has deep whānau ties across the region and remains actively involved in the youth sector. Empowering rangatahi and creating space for tamariki to be heard continues to be a personal passion. Rebecca is proud to serve on the Shadow Board and contribute to the impact of the Y in her hometown.
Te Maia Gage-Gray
Te Maia Gage-Gray Shadow Board Member
Te Maia is the latest inductee of our shadow board. He is a young leader with growing skills in local governance, relationship management, and strategic decision making. Based in Wellington, Te Maia looks to bring prior governance and leadership experience to the shadow board. Contributing to the exciting influence and initiatives the Y takes on across the wider region. 
Y Central Life Members
Barry Hislop
Barry HislopDirector
Barry has had a life time of involvement with the YMCA, he has held many leadership and management functions with the Y over 40 years. Barry has had an extensive career with over 45 years in the sport and recreation and injury prevention sector across NZ. He has been involved developing national and regional physical activity strategies. He has been involved in a wide range of NZ high-performance sports settings as an advisor, coach, developer, athlete, and supporter and is currently still involved in supporting communities to develop physical activity pathways and encouraging our young people to learn and explore their potential.

LEARN, GROW AND THRIVE AT THE Y

When school is out, the Y is in! The Y offers a range of recreational based kids programming available throughout the year. Our programmes create fun, safe, fun-filled environments for kids to grow in body mind and spirit. Our values of caring, respect, honesty and responsibility are paramount to the delivery of our programmes.

    Participant Health Information

    FEEDBACK & COMPLAINTS

    Y-Central is fully committed to listening and responding to all customers, staff and public concerns, questions or comments about our organisation. Our priority is to have an open and accountable organisational culture that understands the needs of children, their whanau, and our community. We welcome your feedback.

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