Zeal Youth Trust is taking to the streets in support of West Auckland’s rangatahi. Its street youth work programme is reaching more young people this year, thanks to funding from the Your West Support Fund and others.
‘Our team connects with rangatahi where they are: in parks, town centres, transport hubs and around schools,’ explains Chris Foster-Winder, Zeal‘s Auckland Regional Manager. The programme creates welcoming spaces where young people can build relationships, explore their interests and access support when they need it. This includes rangatahi navigating challenges with housing, wellbeing, social connection or education.
‘We also introduce them to programmes at our Henderson youth centre, including mentoring, creative activities and work readiness,’ says Chris. ‘These help young people develop their talents, grow their confidence and pursue their goals.’ The centre also offers a welcoming drop-in space and free activities, including music, dance and competitive gaming.
Building on Zeal’s established 2025 project, the expansion allows youth workers to spend more time in more places, particularly after school and in the evenings. Funding of $19,200 from the Your West Support Fund, alongside support from other funders including the Auckland Urban Development Office, will help Zeal deliver approximately 4,200 engagements with rangatahi across West Auckland.
This year’s programme includes more activities and youth-led initiatives, from basketball to barbering skills and free haircuts. Rangatahi help shape what’s on offer, bringing their own ideas, interests and talents to the programme. A weekly activation hub on Railside Avenue, near Henderson train station, gives young people a regular place to meet, build relationships with youth workers and get involved.
Recently, young Westies took part in Whau to Hendo, a photo scavenger hunt from New Lynn to Henderson. They completed challenges at four locations and uploaded photos to Instagram, with prizes celebrating creativity, teamwork and participation. As part of the event, 49 rangatahi received AT HOP cards loaded with 28 days of unlimited travel, giving them greater freedom to explore their communities and travel across Auckland.
‘It’s helped rangatahi build confidence navigating public transport and gain greater independence,’ says Chris. ‘That opens up possibilities for everything from connecting with friends and whānau to accessing education and employment.’
Chris says feedback from the Henderson Safety Network has been positive, with community partners recognising the value of creating welcoming spaces and positive activities for rangatahi in the town centre.
For Zeal, the expansion is about more than reaching additional young Westies. It’s about meeting them where they are, celebrating their strengths and helping them shape their own futures.
Learn more about Zeal Youth Trust at zeal.nz or follow them on Facebook.
If you or your organisation could use support from The Trusts, find out how to apply at thetrusts.co.nz/our-funds.
