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Media release - 29 September 2011
Youthtown Opens its Doors in Papakura
Police Minister and MP for Papakura Hon Judith Collins opened Youthtown’s new branch in Papakura today [Eds: Thursday 29 September] at an official function followed by a community open day.
The event included speeches by Youthtown Board Chairman Michael White, Operations General Manager Dion Brown and Youthtown Papakura Branch Manager Graeme Thorpe. The Minister praised Youthtown for its collaboration with local organisations to bring its services to the area for the benefit of South Auckland youth.
Once formalities were over it was all about the children with activities including rock climbing, a hip hop workshop and a collaborative art project to entertain and delight during the open day. The new Papakura branch will provide 10-13 year-olds with an exciting hub which will provide the region’s young people with fulfilling physical, social and creative experiences.
The team will continue to strengthen its In-Schools Sport Coaching Programme which is currently delivered to 20 schools reaching over 700 kids per week within the Counties Manukau area.
The branch will now also provide holiday programmes and after school activity for 10-13 year olds in the area from Term 1, 2012.
Ms Collins commented at the launch how impressed she is with the extraordinary range of skills and talents our young people have.
“There is no more important task than encouraging the next generation to make the most of their opportunities and to achieve their full potential in life. I’m confident Youthtown’s official presence in Papakura will help strengthen and expand its core-based programmes and activities to benefit more school pupils in our district.”
Youthtown Papakura Branch Manager Graeme Thorpe added; “We have been active in the community for the past 18 months through our In-Schools Sport Coaching Programme and so we’re delighted to now have a physical presence in Papakura.
“We’re all about providing young people with opportunities for fun and adventure, kicking-off in October with the launch of our school holiday programme,” he adds. “We have an action-packed line up of activities on offer including: abseiling, jet boating, mountain biking, a trip to Rainbow’s End, windsurfing, kayaking and sailing and urge parents to get in quick as places are strictly limited.”
The organisation turns 80 next year and since first opening its doors as Boys Town in 1932 it has grown and evolved into one of New Zealand's leading youth organisations. Youthtown currently has branches in North Shore, Auckland Central, Taupo, Upper Hutt and Oamaru, with firm plans to extend to Christchurch in coming months and a vision of 20 branches by 2020.
For more information or to learn more about Youthtown, visit www.youthtown.org.nz or to contact the branch please call: (09) 297 7386.
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Media release - 29 August 2011
Youthtown Taupo has a New Branch Manager
Youthtown has appointed Rebecca Harvey as Branch Manager of its Taupo branch.
The role was up for grabs after previous Taupo Branch Manager, Dion Brown, was promoted to General Manager Operations within the Youthtown organisation.
With a real passion for sport and fitness, Rebecca has spent several years volunteering for organisations including Ironman New Zealand, The Order of St John and the Taupo Sports Advisory Council. She brings a wealth of experience in the areas of both sport and management to the role.
Rebecca says, “It’s really exciting for me now to be able to combine the two and put my energies into a great organisation that delivers amazing programmes for youth.”
Her previous roles include assistant bank manager at Westpac Bank and Warehouse Stationery’s Taupo Branch Manager.
Youthtown CEO, Keith Thorpe, adds; “With such a strong grounding in sport and recreation and a wealth of local organisational contacts, Rebecca is well-placed to hit the ground running in this new role and we extend her a very warm welcome.”
Rebecca commenced the role in August.
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Media release - 26 August 2011
Youthtown Celebrates Children’s Literacy at Storylines Festival
Youthtown got behind the Auckland Storylines Festival in the weekend to celebrate all things pertaining to children’s literature and book illustration.
It’s the fifth year the organisation has supported the annual family event which is run by the Children’s Literature Charitable Trust of New Zealand.
The festival was held at the Auckland Museum on Sunday [Eds: 28 August]. Attendees got to meet a range of New Zealand authors, hear live story tellers and engage in a range of exciting literary and craft activities.
Youthtown ran a workshop at the event which encouraged kids to create posters around the themes of books and reading using stencils.
Youthtown CEO, Keith Thorpe, says; “Providing children and youth with creative experiences is one of the cornerstones of our organisation and so the Storylines Festival was a natural fit for us.
“We applaud the festival’s dedication to encourage youngsters to embrace the all-important skills of reading and writing in a creative and fun way.”
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Media release - 2 August 2011
Kids Take to the Outdoors for Youthtown Get 2 Go Challenge
The Youthtown Get 2 Go challenge kicked off yesterday [Eds: Tuesday 2 August] in Wellington with 96 Year 9 and 10 school students competing in a range of outdoor activities for the title of New Zealand’s most adventurous young teens.
Now in its sixth year, the annual challenge will see more than 1,600 students from 185 different schools take part in 12 regional events throughout New Zealand. The winning team from each region will compete in the grand final at OPC Great Barrier from 5-9 December.
The regional day-long events will put each member of the eight-person mixed-gender teams through their paces as they tackle a range of fun but testing challenges, including orienteering, kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking.
Darren Ashmore, Events Manager for the Sir Edmund Hillary Outdoor Pursuits Centre of New Zealand (OPC), which organises the challenge, says the aim of the event is to show kids how much fun the outdoors can be.
“The Youthtown Get 2 Go challenge is New Zealand’s premier youth adventure sport competition and it’s an absolute highlight of the school calendar for competing 13 and 14 year-olds,” says Ashmore.
“Students don’t need any special experience to enter, just a “give-it-a-go” attitude. The aim is to give students of all abilities a taste of the reward and satisfaction that comes from teamwork, leadership, problem solving, physical activity and the outdoors."
Youthtown CEO Keith Thorpe says, “The Get 2 Go challenge is a great initiative which fits perfectly with the Youthtown philosophy of enriching the lives of young New Zealanders through physical, social and creative experiences. We are delighted to support this event for the second year running and help encourage Kiwi kids to get active outdoors.”
For more information on the Youthtown Get 2 Go challenge or to enter a team, visit www.opc.org.nz
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Media release - 15 June 2011
Sign up Now for Free Break from the Quake
Young Cantabrians have one week left to be nominated for Youthtown’s ‘Break from the Quake’ camps which will run during the July school holidays, with applications closing next week.
The camps provide the opportunity for 500 young people aged 10-17 years to take a week-long ‘Break from the Quake’ camp during the holidays. Students will be flown to Auckland for camp-based adventures in locations throughout the North Island. The camps are completely free of charge with all costs covered by Youthtown and Break from the Quake sponsors and supporters.
After the most recent aftershocks this week, Youthtown has now extended the list of eligible schools to include Riccarton High, Burnside High, Papanui High, Hillmorton High, Mairehau High, Hagley High and Unlimited Paenga Tawhiti. This decision was made because it became apparent that there were a number of students throughout the entire city, and particularly in these areas, who were in need of some time out.
Schools who were already invited to put forward students to participate in the camps include those in the most affected Eastern suburbs including the “twin schools” of Linwood College and Cashmere High.
Youthtown CEO, Keith Thorpe, says the camps will provide a getaway for students who whose nerves are frayed following the quakes and also those who may be suffering from the drop in extra-curricular activity on offer to them.
“Our consultation with Christchurch colleagues revealed some consistent truths – young people coming to school with behavioural issues, showing signs of stress, students not returning to school and a real lack of organised fun is taking its toll. These latest quakes only exacerbate the situation and add extra stress on families struggling to cope. It may be that students are feeling displaced, frustrated or are simply bored,” says Thorpe.
“Youthtown is all about providing positive, fun environments for physical, social and creative youth activities. Our team of talented youth workers has put together a fantastic week-long programme that will be full of fun and surprises, including a few special guests, to ensure these kids have the time of their lives in a safe and supportive environment and return to Christchurch refreshed and re-energised.”
Thorpe added the organisation was doing everything it could to work with and support existing Christchurch-based youth organisations.
Application forms are now circulating through schools and community organisations. Students can be nominated by their school, family or a mentor. All camp costs will be fully funded by Youthtown, including airfares, travel, meals and accommodation.
The students will have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities including outdoor adventures at Tongariro National Park, getting intrepid on Great Barrier Island and taking exciting day-trips in and around Auckland city. They will be accompanied by selected supervisors and caregivers to ensure continuity of care.
Youthtown has partnered with a series of organisations including Air NZ, Auckland Council and The Levene Foundation, to enable the camps to happen.
Other organisations that have generously donated products and services include Telecom, Farmers, Rainbow’s End, Auckland Zoo, Spirit of Adventure Trust, Subway, Northern Districts Coastguards, Eden Park Trust Board, Auckland Rugby Union, Skycity, Event Cinemas, Brightstar, NZ Maritime Museum, Snowplanet, Tree Adventures, Vero and Restaurant Brands.
Anyone wanting to nominate a young person to take part in a camp can contact Rebecca Duell on 027 242 4099 or email Christchurch@youthtown.org.nz.
For more information on ‘Break from the Quake’ visit www.youthtown.org.nz.
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Media release - 8 June 2011
Hit the Slopes with Youthtown these Holidays!
Fancy a week in the snow during the school holidays? Register now for Youthtown’s popular Mt Ruapehu snow adventure.
Taking place during the July school holidays (18 - 29 July), Youthtown’s winter camps have been running for over 20 years now and are always a calendar highlight, says Brian Walsh, Outdoor Coordinator for Youthtown.
“Kids love the sense of adventure, the social aspect of being away with friends for a week and learning new skills both on and off the ski field,” he says.
The camps are five days long and operate in two age groups (7 – 12 year olds and 13 – 17 year olds) with a limit of 20 spaces available per camp at a cost of $555 per person.
Led by a team of trained and experienced outdoor instructors, each camp is equipped to ensure every participant experiences skiing and snowboarding in a fun and safe environment. Alternative activities such as mountain biking, caving, rock climbing and visits to the hot pools are all on offer if the ski field is closed.
The camp fee includes accommodation, transport, ski boots & poles or snowboard & boot rental, lift passes, ski & snowboarding instruction and food. A small number of camp scholarships (which cover the full camp cost) are also available.
For more information about the camps or to learn more about the scholarship application process visit www.youthtown.org.nz or email Brian Walsh or Fiona Ryder outdoors@youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 30 May 2011
Youthtown Raises a Smile in Canterbury
Much of the support and media focus post quake has centred on loss of life, damage to buildings and disruption to business. Less has been shared about the plight of young Cantabrians struggling with daily life since February 22.
However Youthtown, one of New Zealand’s oldest and most respected national youth charities, has been listening to their stories. In response, the charity today unveiled a series of special projects that will offer young Cantabrians in the worst quake affected areas a well deserved outlet for physical, social and creative activity.
Youthtown’s plans for Christchurch are twofold: the opportunity for 500 young people to take a ‘Break from the Quake’ camp during the July school holidays; and a Christchurch based programme of activities led by the Youthtown team and designed to make life fun again.
The holiday camps (18-29 July) will see 500 students aged 10-17 years flown to Auckland for camp-based adventures in locations throughout the North Island. Two series of week-long camps will engage, educate and entertain young campers, providing a much needed Break from the Quake.
Christchurch students will get to enjoy a range of activities that include outdoor adventures at Tongariro National Park, getting intrepid on Great Barrier Island and taking exciting day-trips in and around Auckland city. They will be accompanied by selected supervisors and caregivers to ensure continuity of care for those still experiencing trauma.
While Youthtown is a national charity, the organisation does not have a Christchurch branch despite future plans to set up in the city. Youthtown revised its longer-term plans following the earthquake to meet the immediate needs of the city and its young people.
Youthtown CEO Keith Thorpe said the organisation would do everything it could to work with existing youth organisations that are doing a stellar job in difficult circumstances.
“We’re conscious that many local youth facilities, sports grounds, schools, and extra-curricular activities are simply no longer able to operate. For some, that will be just in the short term, for others, it will be part of a long, slow rebuild.
“Our consultation with Christchurch colleagues revealed some consistent truths – young people coming to school with behavioural issues, experiencing signs of stress, students not returning to school and a real lack of organised fun taking its toll on everyone in the community.”
Applications forms are now circulating through schools and community organisations as Youthtown searches for 500 students who have the most to benefit from the holiday experience. They will be nominated by their school, family or mentor. Youthtown’s Break from the Quake camps will be held at a range of North Island locations with all costs fully funded by Youthtown, including airfares, travel, meals and accommodation.
In addition, Youthtown is kicking off the Christchurch-based school programme this week. This initiative will run for 11 weeks until the end of Term 3 and includes organised sport, recreational activities, artistic endeavours – anything young people want to do that will replace some of the organised fun they have been missing out on since the earthquake struck.
Youthtown is supporting primary and intermediate schools with lunchtime and after school activity. Schools within the most affected Eastern suburbs of the city are involved.
The organisation will also be working closely with the “twin schools” of Linwood College and Cashmere High to offer morning and afternoon sessions in the time that students are not in class.
Students are in for an array of activities that include games, 3on3 basketball, indoor soccer, touch rugby, netball, cricket, volleyball, art and break dancing workshops and rock climbing sessions.
Youthtown has partnered with a series of organisations to bring the Break from the Quake camps to fruition, including Air NZ, Auckland Council and The Levene Foundation. The generous support and contribution from these organisations has helped enable Youthtown to provide exceptional programme of activities for the young Cantabrians.
Other organisations who have generously donated products and services for free or at discount for the camps include Telecom, Rainbow’s End, Auckland Zoo, Spirit of Adventure, Eden Park Trust Board, Auckland Rugby Union, Snowplanet, Tree Adventures, Subway and Restaurant Brands.
For more information on Break from the Quake visit www.youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 5 May 2011
Calling Future Stars: Youthtown Short Film Challenge Is On
Youthtown urges New Zealand’s rising film making talent to enter the 2011Youthtown New Zealand Short Film Challenge.
Now in its eighth year, the Short Film Challenge gives budding film makers, actors and actresses, between 13 and 18 years of age, the chance to showcase their talents, with awards for best film and best director up for grabs on premiere night.
Entries for this year’s competition must be received by 25 July and will be judged by a panel of industry experts and screened at a red carpet ‘Oscar style’ premiere event at the Academy Cinema in Auckland on 17 August.
“We are very excited about this year’s competition and anticipate a high calibre of entries, if previous years are anything to go by,” says Youthtown CEO, Keith Thorpe.
“We have an extraordinary pool of creative youth in New Zealand and we are delighted we can assist in recognising and rewarding this talent through the Youthtown NZ Short Film Challenge.”
Youthtown will hold short film workshops every Saturday between 7 May and 9 July at its Central Auckland hub in Nelson Street from 11.00am to 2.30pm. The workshops will cover all aspects of filmmaking including camera technique, acting, directing, editing, production and script writing. Attendees will also produce a film which will be entered into the competition at the end of the 10 weeks. The Taupo branch will also be running an eight week short film programme during Term 2.
"Participation in our workshops isn't compulsory for entering the NZ Short Film Challenge however many previous contestants have found them very useful, particularly if they're newcomers to filmmaking,” says Thorpe.
The Youthtown New Zealand Short Film Challenge attracts a great diversity of styles and genres as illustrated by last year’s winning film ‘Cookie’ by Isaiah Tour, who has taken out the top award three years running. The six-minute bilingual cartoon describes the tragic consequences of a feud between two families of biscuits – the Afghans and the Shortbreads.
To register, head to www.youthtown.org.nz or text “shortfilm” with your name and address to 4040 for more information.
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Media release - 4 May 2011
Youthtown Makes a Splash at Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show
Youthtown is launching a new Aqua Fun Zone at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show at ASB Showgrounds in Greenlane on 12-15 May. The zone is an interactive hall for children and youth which will cater for organised school group visits.
Given New Zealand has one of the highest rates of drowning in the Western world, the programme of activities in the Aqua Fun Zone (Hall 4A) will focus on educating students about the importance of water safety and teaching water survival skills. The school boating and water safety programme runs from 9.30am – 2.30pm on Thursday 12 and Friday 13 May and continues over the weekend for members of the public.
There will be lots of exciting indoor pool activities on offer thanks to the PoolsiNSchoolZ Trust plus the opportunity to try sailing and a surf rescue simulator. There will also be a range of demonstrations from Youthtown Outdoors, Water Safety NZ, Surf Life Saving NZ, Yachting NZ, Watersafe Auckland Inc, Elements Water Sports, Stand Up Paddle Boarding NZ, Waterwise, Sea Scouts and Voyager NZ.
Youthtown CEO, Keith Thorpe, says: “Boating and water sports are popular leisure activities in New Zealand and providing the Aqua Fun Zone at the boat show was a great way for us to open the door to these for young Kiwis.
“Fun is at the heart of everything we stand for, and this project provided the perfect platform to create fun, but also educate youth on the importance of water safety. We urge attendees to bring their togs with them so they can take part in all of the activities on offer,” adds Thorpe.
Attendees can try trapeze and traditional sailing, stand-up paddle boarding, windsurfing and optimist rigging or take a swimming lesson through Sealord Swim for Life.
Other activities include:
- Ara Moana Programme where students will have an overview of the Polynesian migration to Aotearoa 1000 years ago
- Hypothermia awareness
- IRB Rescue Challenge and Rip Interactive
- The Great Drain Game – an interactive way to discover what happens to liquids as they go from drains through to waterways
The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show is New Zealand’s longest running and most popular boating expo. First run over 55 years ago, the show still features New Zealand’s widest range of boats, engines, electronics and marine accessories.
For more information or to learn more about Youthtown, visit www.youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 13 April 2011
Ironman Champion Launches Youthtown Fitness Trail
Champion New Zealand Ironman triathlete, Cameron Brown, launched a Youthtown fitness trail at Glenfield Intermediate School in Auckland today as part of a national initiative to encourage Kiwi kids to engage in physical activity.
Funded by the Youthtown Property Trust, the fitness trail has been specifically designed to suit the fitness requirements of Kiwi primary and intermediate school children in conjunction with fitness guru and personal trainer, Graeme Ahern.
The trail comprises eight stationary workout stations including: a tyre run, chin up bars, push up bars, balance beam, step up, hanging bars, jump beam and parallel bars.
Ten-time New Zealand Ironman winner Cameron Brown was delighted to get behind Youthtown for the fitness trail launch, challenging the students of Glenfield Intermediate to a time-trial race through the new equipment.
“It’s fantastic to finally have this innovative equipment available in our communities, to help Kiwi kids engage in physical activity in fun and exciting new ways,” says Brown.
Youthtown CEO, Keith Thorpe, says: “We are delighted to make this long-term investment in our community and assist in promoting a healthy lifestyle on the North Shore, where Youthtown also has a branch.”
Glenfield Intermediate School Principal, Raewyn Matthys-Morris, adds: “The Youthtown Fitness Trail is a welcome asset to our school and the wider Glenfield community. This will greatly support us in achieving our objective to encourage our students to become more active.”
Youthtown already has three trails in place and plans to roll out an additional six fitness trails at schools in Auckland, Taupo, Upper Hutt, Greymouth, Oamaru and Christchurch over the coming months.
For more information or to learn more about Youthtown go to www.youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 24 March 2011
Ironman Champion Launches Youthtown Fitness Trail
Champion New Zealand Ironman triathlete Cameron Brown launched Youthtown’s national Fitness Trail initiative at Balmoral School in Auckland today.
Funded by the Youthtown Property Trust, the fitness trail has been specifically designed to suit the fitness requirements of Kiwi primary and intermediate school children in conjunction with fitness guru and personal trainer, Graeme Ahern.
The trail comprises eight stationary workout stations including: a tyre run, chin up bars, push up bars, balance beam, step up, hanging bars, jump beam and parallel bars.
Ten-time New Zealand Ironman winner Cameron Brown was delighted to get behind Youthtown and launch the fitness trail, challenging the students of Balmoral School to a time-trial race through the new equipment.
“It’s fantastic to finally have this innovative equipment available in our communities, to help Kiwi kids engage in physical activity in fun and exciting new ways,” says Brown.
Youthtown CEO, Keith Thorpe, says: “We saw an opportunity through the fitness trail initiative to make a substantial long-term investment that assists in promoting a healthy lifestyle in our communities.”
Balmoral School Principal, Malcolm Milner, adds: “Wellbeing and physical activity are increasingly important objectives for us. The Youthtown Fitness Trail provides a fun and unique way for us to help meet these by encouraging and enabling our students to be more active.”
Youthtown plans to roll out an additional eight fitness trails at schools in Auckland, Taupo, Upper Hutt, Greymouth, Oamaru and Christchurch over the coming months.
For more information or to learn more about Youthtown go to www.youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 07 February 2011
Youthtown Upper Hutt Appoints New Co-ordinator
Youthtown has appointed Janelle Pollock as Holiday Programme and After School Co-ordinator for its Upper Hutt centre. She joins Penny Jones who has managed Youthtown Upper Hutt since July 2010, Alex Herewini, the Programme Assistant and Jade Eru, the Youth Co-ordinator for Urban Unity.
Janelle has extensive experience working with youth in her previous roles as a teacher aide and a Kiwi Can Leader for the Kiwi Can Charitable Trust. In that role she was responsible for teaching values-based programmes to primary school students in the Wellington region.
The appointment rounds out the newly restructured team after a part-time staff member left to take up a full-time teaching role and another staffer left to spend more time with his young family.
Janelle will be responsible for organising and co-ordinating the Upper Hutt After School Programme, which runs daily from 3-6pm at Maidstone Pavilion for 5-13 year-olds, as well as the school holiday programmes.
Penny Jones says, “Janelle is a welcome addition to the team. Her energy, inspiration and enthusiasm will be a great asset to Youthtown Upper Hutt, and we look forward to seeing her put some innovative new ideas into practice.”
Janelle adds, “I am really keen on making an impact in my local community by providing youth in the area with a range of exciting programmes that enable them to acquire new skills and meet new people in a safe and happy environment.”
Janelle commenced her new role in December 2010.
For more information or to learn more about Youthtown, head to www.youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 04 November 2010
Youthtown keen to Give Water a Hand
Youthtown Central has been awarded a $2,000 grant from Water New Zealand and the British Oxygen Corporation (BOC) to fund an urban water conservation project.
Titled, Give Water a Hand, the project is designed to educate children about water conservation, pollution and everyday consumption. Using its Nelson Street building as a case study, members of Youthtown Central’s Eco Club will examine the building’s drains to see what happens to its waste, storm and grey water throughout term four 2010 and term one 2011.
Specifically set up for the Give Water a Hand project, the Eco Club has been a surprisingly popular addition to the centre’s range of after-school clubs says Natalie Vincent, Youthtown Central’s Discovery Centre coordinator.
“The kids are very engaged and interested in what we’re doing – I didn’t expect such a positive response,” she says. “Give Water a Hand is about identifying existing problems at Youthtown Central and formulating environmentally-friendly solutions. The funding from Water New Zealand will allow us to test the water and implement changes for the better.”
Club members are aged between seven and 11-years-old and meet twice a week.
“Conservation has become quite topical with young people – much more so than when I was a child. I think club members enjoy examining environmental issues from an urban perspective,” says Mrs Vincent.
To learn more about Youthtown and its programmes, visit www.youthtown.org.nz.
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Media release - 24 September 2010
Youthtown to offer Greymouth programmes early 2011
Youthtown is thrilled to announce it is returning to Greymouth early next year, bringing its quality programmes to the community’s young people aged between 13 and 18.
Youthtown’s operation in the city is supported by Greymouth mayor, Tony Kokshoorn, and the Grey District Council will work with Youthtown on a day-to-day basis to help the organisation develop and implement its programmes. Youthtown’s personnel will be based in the Council-owned Greymouth Aquatic Centre and some of its programmes will also be run there.
“Youthtown has been the driving force behind many worthy youth initiatives throughout our district – Life Education, the Aquatic Centre and local sport, to name a few,” said Mr Kokshoorn. “Collaboration between the Grey District Council and Youthtown will strengthen Youthtown’s presence in a district that values our youth.
“Being based at the Aquatic Centre sports hub will make Youthtown management accessible to youth groups of all ages. Youthtown and local hospitality funding will raise the bar for improved access and education for youth and will encourage young people to strive for success.”
Youthtown, a not-for-profit organisation established as Boystown in 1932, said it will undertake research to help it develop targeted programmes for the young people of Greymouth.
“The programmes we’ll be offering in Greymouth will be designed to offer young people opportunities for fulfilling physical, social and creative experiences,” said Sian Neary, programme director for Youthtown nationally. “We’ll be consulting widely with the youth of Greymouth, and other youth-oriented and church organisations in the community, to ensure our programmes are tailored to what young people are seeking.
“Youthtown has followed this youth participation philosophy throughout New Zealand with great success for almost 80 years.”
Youthtown is currently seeking a dynamic, passionate and skilled youth coordinator to facilitate and deliver its programmes in Greymouth. This person will be required to nurture strong links with stakeholders and network in the community.
According to Ms Neary, the successful candidate will have experience in budgeting and planning as well as understanding the principles of youth development and participation. A Greymouth local is preferred, but Youthtown will consider candidates from elsewhere in the region.
The ideal candidate will also possess exceptional facilitation skills, have previous event management experience and be able to relate well to young people. They’ll also be extremely motivated and have an outgoing and positive personality, Ms Neary said.
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Media release - 16 September 2010
Youthtown One-Day Free Trial Comes to the North Shore
Youthtown is introducing its highly successful free day trial programme to its North Shore centre, now in its sixth month of operation.
Youthtown North Shore is offering local families the opportunity to trial its unrivalled after-school programme, catering to children aged 5 to 13 years, free of charge for one day. The programme operates daily during the school term from 3-6pm and Youthtown also offers a pick-up service from schools in the area.
The programmes are run by dedicated, involved staff in an open, creative space. They’re designed to foster children’s development, while providing cooking and art sessions, homework time, healthy afternoon tea options – and a great deal more.
During the free trial day, children are partnered up with someone their own age and shown the programme and what Youthtown has to offer. When parents come to pick up their children, they are shown around the centre and walked through the after-school programme.
Prior to opening its centre in March, Youthtown had provided its holiday programmes to North Shore youth for three years. Now it also offers the after-school programme, weekend activities, youth events and specialist clubs.
Youthtown North Shore is located next to the North Shore Events Centre in Wairau Valley. Families can register their interest in the one-day free at www.youthtown.org.nz. Kids can attend one programme day per child from now until December 17. The offer is subject to availability and bookings are essential. It is not open to existing after-school programme attendees.
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Media release - 19 August 2010
Third time's a charm for Youthtown Short Film Challenge winner
An animated film made by South Auckland-based Massacre Films, also known as Isaiah Tour, has taken the top prize in the annual Youthtown Short Film Challenge.
The six-minute bilingual cartoon, called Cookie, describes the tragic consequences of a feud between two families of biscuits – the Afghans and the Shortbreads. Eighteen-year old Isaiah, who also took the judges’ gong for Best Script, wins $2,000 in Harvey Norman vouchers.
The award is doubly welcome for Isaiah, who has entered the Youthtown Short Film Challenge for three years running. Now in its seventh year, the contest gives budding film makers, actors and actresses between 13–18 years-old a chance to showcase their production talents.
“Isaiah was the judges’ choice as he has great technical ability, his story was well constructed and the animation had a great sense of humour,” said Paula Jones, one of the Short Film Challenge judges and Head of Documentary at South Seas Film and TV. “He’s an incredibly gifted young director.”
Youthtown’s Best Director Award went to Hohepa Hemara for his environmental film Youth Today. Hohepa wins an Introduction to Television Production course provided by South Seas Film, Television & Animation School.
No Signal was the runner-up for Best Film with $500 in Harvey Norman vouchers going to the film making group Kocky Productions. The students who make up Kocky Productions attended a Youthtown Auckland film and TV workshop led by Garth Gleeson, the main tutor.
The winners of the Youthtown Short Film Challenge were announced at a screening at Auckland’s Academy Cinema. It was judged by a panel of industry experts, including Paula Jones and Johnny Givins, head of on-screen acting at South Seas Film and TV School.
Eleven budding Tarantino’s and Scorcese’s submitted a range of films of between 4-7 minutes – animation, horror films, documentaries and gangster flicks. Awards are given for “Best Film’. ‘Best Director’, ‘Best Script’, ‘Best Cinematography’, ‘Best Editing’, ‘Best Use of Line’, ‘Best Use of Prop’ and ‘Best Use of Genre’.
“Youthtown always produces some fantastic entries and we’re always stunned by the high level of entries right across the board,” said Paula.
To see a full list of winners and to learn more about Youthtown and its programmes, visit www.youthtown.org.nz.
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Media release - 18 May 2010
Are you the next Peter Jackson?
Aspiring film makers ready to see their work on the big screen are being encouraged to enter Youthtown’s annual Short Film Challenge.
Now in its seventh year, the Youthtown Short Film Challenge gives budding film makers, actors and actresses between 13 – 18-years-old a chance to showcase their production talents. Entries are judged by a panel of industry experts and screened at the Academy Cinema in August.
Prizes:
- 1st – $2000 Harvey Norman vouchers
- 2nd – $500 Harvey Norman vouchers
- Best Director – an Introduction to Television Production Course (provided by South Seas Film, Television & Animation School)
Entries close Friday, 23 July 2010. To register, head to www.urbanunity.co.nz or contact Dionne at Youthtown on (09) 379 5430 ext 806. For more information, text “shortfilm” with your name and address to 4040.
To learn more about Youthtown and its programmes, visit www.youthtown.org.nz.
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Media release - 25 March 2010
Youthtown opens new North Shore branch
Youthtown will open the doors of its new North Shore centre next Tuesday.
Designed to provide young people with opportunities for fun physical, social and creative experiences, Youthtown’s new North Shore centre will provide local kids and teenagers with an exciting hub.
Located next to the North Shore Events Centre in Wairau Valley, branch manager Sarah Guy is excited about what the new facility will enable Youthtown to offer local youths.
“We’re no longer just a holiday programme provider for North Shore kids like we have been for the past three years,” she says. “This new centre allows us to offer an after school programme, weekend activities, youth events and specialist clubs.”
Although the after school and holiday programmes will operate directly out of the new centre, Ms Guy says Youthtown North Shore will work to run programmes with local businesses and service providers also.
“The centre will be primarily used as a base, however we have no walls. Our aim is to offer lots of activities across all sorts of local venues,” she says. “We don’t want bored kids – it’s their time and we want to make it great!”
“What sets Youthtown apart from our competitors is the fact we’re youth-led. We talk to kids, find out what they want then develop our programmes around their needs and interests,” says Ms Guy.
To celebrate the launch of Youthtown North Shore, an afternoon of exciting activities will be run for anyone keen to stop by and see the new branch in action next Tuesday 30 March from 3.00pm onwards.
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Media release - 11 February 2010
Shore to Shore announces new sponsor
The North Shore’s largest community fun run will pound the pavement with a new naming rights sponsor this year.
Leading youth organisation Youthtown has officially signed on as naming rights sponsor of the 25th Annual Youthtown Shore to Shore.
Executive director of Youthtown Keith Thorpe says the event is a great fit for the organisation. “Our aim is to provide young people with opportunities for enriching physical, social and creative experiences to help build their confidence and self-esteem. The Youthtown Shore to Shore ticks all the boxes,” he says.
Mr Thorpe says the organisation is excited about having a stronger presence on the North Shore, with a branch launching in Glenfield at the end of March.
“Our new facility will provide young people with a space to learn and grow.
“We’re looking forward to introducing ourselves to the local community at the Youthtown Shore to Shore – it will be a great chance to let people know who we are and what we do.”
The 2010 Youthtown Shore to Shore takes place on Sunday, 28 March. The run begins at 9am from Takapuna Grammar School and will finish at Milford Beach Reserve. With competitions, mini events and spot prizes to be won along the way, walkers and runners will have lots to enjoy and take in.
All proceeds from the Youthtown Shore to Shore will be given back to local schools as grants to purchase sports equipment.
The Youthtown Shore to Shore is proud to be associated with Harbour Sport, North Shore City Council, Sports Distributors, Classic Hits 97.4FM, LG, Beachside health and fitness, adidas and Williment Tours.
For more information, visit www.harboursport.co.nz
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Media release - 15 December 2009
Free summer holiday programmes at Youthtown
Almost 1000 extra young Aucklanders will experience fun and adventure with Youthtown these summer holidays, thanks to the Government’s Break-Away funding initiative.
The funding means 950 children and teenagers between 11 and 17 can register and take part in Youthtown’s January and April 2010 holiday programmes at no cost.
The programmes, divided into 11-13 and 14-17 age groups, will run from January 11-29 and involve a lot of outdoor activity.
Sian Neary, programme director for Youthtown, says the Break-Away funding will allow Youthtown to engage with young people than ever before.
“It’s an exciting opportunity for Auckland youths to get active, meet new friends, learn new skills and really enjoy summer – something they may not have the opportunity to do otherwise,” she says.
“The 11-13 programme will be run in-house and will focus on encouraging children to get active and creative,” says Ms Neary. “The 14-17 programme will be outdoor-adventure focused, with teenagers getting the chance to try things such as archery, sailing, raft building, bush craft and kayaking.”
The holiday programmes are available to all Auckland young people, and will be filled on a first-come, first served basis. Ms Neary says young people who are interested in the holiday programmes, or their parents, should contact Youthtown to register.
“We’re renowned for running fun, high-quality, OSCAR-recognised programmes in a safe and nurturing environment. We want as many young people to benefit from this scheme as possible,” she says.
To register yourself or your child, contact Youthtown head office (09) 379 5430.
For more information about Youthtown and its programmes, visit www.youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 14 October 2009
Youthtown to help kids learn to swim
Hundreds of Kiwi school children will be safer in and around the water this summer thanks to Youthtown.
Funding from Youthtown will allow students from schools in Hamilton, Taupo, Christchurch, Greymouth and the Waitaki District to undergo a Learn to Swim programme during the lead-up to the holiday season.
Shirley Primary School in Christchurch is one of the schools set to benefit from the funding. Principal Geoff Siave says the programme is a much needed initiative.
“It’s really shocking the number of children coming through who can’t swim or lack confidence in the water,” he says.
“Last year I offered rewards to students who could swim 200m in our school pool. Virtually no one could do it.”
Alan Reid, national projects manager for Youthtown, says the Learn to Swim funding is a pilot scheme he hopes to see grow and strengthen moving forward.
“Even though we’re a country surrounded by beaches and waterways, only a handful of kids in New Zealand really know how to swim.
“Programmes like this will help rectify that,” he says.
Mr Reid says the programme will focus on entry-level swimming and water safety skills.
“At the end of the programme, the goal is for participants to feel comfortable around the water and know what to do if they ever find themselves in trouble,” he says.
Mr Siave says there a number of causes contributing to the large number of school children unable to swim.
“I believe the increasing closure of school pools around New Zealand is a real problem,” he says.
“Another cause could be that teachers are no longer taught how to teach swimming when they’re undergoing their training.”
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Media release - 14 July 2009
Youthtown almost here!
Greymouth teenagers will have plenty to do once Youthtown arrives in August.
Designed to provide young people with opportunities for fun physical, social and creative experiences, Youthtown Greymouth will be an exciting hub for local teenagers once it’s officially up and running.
Youth coordinator for Youthtown Greymouth Tina Mason believes all young people can benefit from getting involved with Youthtown and its programmes.
“There’s a real need for Youthtown in Greymouth,” says Mason. “I believe many young people struggle to be creative and achieve their goals in arts and sports because support networks are limited in small communities like ours.”
“The activities, workshops and programmes we’ll offer will be fun and engaging – I’m confident there will be something for everyone.”
Youthtown Greymouth will run programmes by working alongside existing entertainment and leisure providers.
“Once Youthtown Greymouth is established, we will work to source our own premises,” says Mason. “Until then we will make use of the great local facilities already on offer.”
With branches already operating in Auckland, Upper Hutt and Taupo, Greymouth is Youthtown’s newest location.
To celebrate the upcoming arrival of Youthtown Greymouth, popular New Zealand hip hop group Nesian Mystik will perform at the Regent Theatre, Friday 17th July.
Band members Notiq, Junz, Awa and Dmon will also take time to share their industry knowledge and skills the by hosting a number of exclusive workshops covering areas such as DJ skills, dance, radio presenting and music recording.
For more information about the workshops or to learn more about Youthtown, head to www.youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 09 June 2009
Hit the slopes with Youthtown!
Whether you’re a pro in the snow or have never set foot in it, Youthtown’s ski and snowboard camps will make your winter even cooler this winter!
Youthtown’s winter camps have been running for over 20 years now and are always a calendar highlight says Brian Walsh, Outdoor Coordinator for Youthtown.
“Kids love the sense of adventure, the social aspect of being away with friends for a week and being able to learn new skills on and off the ski field,” he says.
“The feedback from those who attend is always really positive.”
Led by a team of trained outdoor instructors, including ex-Olympic skier Ben Nanasca, each camp is equipped to ensure each participant experiences skiing and snow boarding in a fun and safe environment.
“Our camps cater for all abilities so it doesn’t matter how confident you are or what your skill level is, there’s something for everyone,” says Mr Walsh.
To ensure camps are action-packed and never faced with a dull moment, activities such as mountain biking, caving, rock climbing and visits to the hot pools are all on offer if Mt Ruapehu’s ski field is ever closed.
Camps operate in two age groups (seven – 12-years and 13 – 17-years) with limited places in each.
The camps are five days each and are scheduled to run over the upcoming July, September and October school holidays.
The camp fee includes accommodation, transport, ski boots & poles, snowboard & boots, lift passes, ski & snowboarding instruction and food. At just $520 per camper, the cost is excellent value for money.
Camp scholarships (which cover the full camp cost) are also available.
“You can apply for camp scholarships by getting a person such as a school teacher, youth group leader, church leader, community leader or sports coach to nominate you. Scholarship criteria and application forms can be downloaded from the Youthtown website,” says Mr Jennings.
For more information about the camps or to learn more about the scholarship application process, visit www.youthtown.org.nz or call Brian Walsh on 09 3795430.
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Media release - 22 May 2009
Youthtown comes to our town!
Young people can no longer complain that there’s nothing to do now Youthtown has arrived in Taupo.
Designed to provide young people with opportunities for fun physical, social and creative experiences, Youthtown Taupo will be an exciting hub for local teenagers once it’s opened next Friday.
Youthtown Taupo branch manager Dion Brown believes all young people can benefit from getting involved with Youthtown and its Urban Unity programmes.
“Urban Unity programmes are run in a smoke, alcohol and drug-free environment where 13 – 18-year-olds can learn new skills, make great friends, have fun and grow in a safe environment,” he says.
Although many people have heard of Youthtown, Mr Brown wants the community to understand how the facility operates before it opens.
“Despite what some may think, Youthtown is not a drop-in centre. We offer a range of programmes and events we hope young people will get involved with and subscribe to. Programmes will be developed with the young people of Taupo and will be for all youth.”
With branches already operating in Auckland and Upper Hutt, Taupo is the latest location to welcome Youthtown.
Taupo Mayor Rick Cooper says the Youthtown branch will be an exciting addition to the Taupo scene.
“To have the opportunities Youthtown can offer is fantastic for our local community – especially Taupo’s young people.”
To celebrate the launch of Youthtown’s arrival, a stack of exciting activities will be on offer for anyone and everyone keen to stop by and check out the new branch.
Youthtown will officially be welcomed to Taupo with an opening ceremony [and Maori blessing] set to take place at 2.30pm next Friday, May 29.
Following the centre opening, a three-on-three street ball tournament will run from 3pm with the help of local premier basketball team, the Taupo Volcanoes.
From the street to the stage, launch celebrations will continue with well-known hip hop acts Ill Semantics, DJ CXL and J. Williams performing at the Taupo Events Centre from 5pm.
Those with creative flair will have the chance to channel their inner-artist by helping create a signature piece of art which will hang in the entrance of Youthtown.
The artwork, which will represent Taupo’s environment and community, will be constructed out of tiles decorated with natural resources collected from around the area. The tiles will then be pieced together to form three unique panels
An art station for people to work at will run and be set-up throughout launch weekend. Anyone (no matter how young or old) is invited to help make their mark on what is sure to be a real masterpiece.
For more information or to learn more about Youthtown, head to www.youthtown.org.nz
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Media release - 21 May 2009
Are you ready to Disrupt the Floor?
Calling all teenagers who love hip hop! Youthtown Panmure is ready to Disrupt the Floor.
Run as part of Youthtown’s Urban Unity programme, Disrupt the Floor offers young people the chance to watch and learn from some of the country’s best hip hop dancers
In association with the Auckland City Council and Flava 96.1FM, Youthtown Panmure is celebrating its 2009 Disrupt the Floor class line-up with an official launch party on Wednesday 27 May, 6.30pm – 8pm.
Hosted by Pete da Palagi and with performances by DJ Manchoo and world hip hop champs SWEET & SOUR, the party will showcase some of New Zealand’s finest hip hop talent.
Whether you’re keen to learn how to pop and lock or jam and break, Disrupt the Floor is held at Youthtown Panmure every Wednesday evening from 6pm – 8pm.
To learn more about Disrupt the Floor or the other programmes Youthtown Panmure has on offer, head to www.youthtown.org.nz or call 09 527 2461.
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