Youth Voice – Bringing organisations together

The Youth Hauora Network continues to bring together organisations from across the Hibiscus Coast and Rodney area that are passionate about supporting the wellbeing of our young people.

Over the past few months, our monthly hui have been held at Silverdale United Rugby and Sports Club and Future Whangaparāoa in Coast Plaza, providing valuable opportunities for local charities, schools, sports clubs, community groups and support services to connect, collaborate and share ideas.

These gatherings create a space where organisations can discuss what they are seeing with young people in our community, identify emerging challenges, share resources, explore funding opportunities and strengthen the support available to local youth and their families.

A key focus has also been supporting those who support others. Conversations have included volunteer wellbeing, access to training opportunities, recognition programmes, support vouchers and practical ways to help volunteers continue making a positive difference in our community.

Our next Youth Hauora Network hui will be hosted at Whangaparāoa College, with the theme focused on the rising cost of living and how it is impacting young people.

While increases in fuel, food and everyday expenses are often viewed as adult concerns, feedback from local youth tells us they are noticing these changes too. Young people have shared that they are seeing less money available for activities, fewer family outings and holidays, changes to household spending, and increased stress within families. Some have also highlighted the impact of rising public transport costs, making it more difficult to access school, sport, employment and social opportunities.

These conversations remind us that young people are often more aware of the challenges facing their families than we may realise. By bringing organisations together and listening to the voices of youth, we can continue working collaboratively to find solutions and strengthen the support available across our community.

The Youth Hauora Network remains committed to creating connections, sharing knowledge and helping build a stronger, healthier future for the young people of the Hibiscus Coast.