From the CEO's desk

Kia ora koutou,

It’s an interesting place to be, this December.

Typically, at the end of the year we tend to reflect on the year that’s been and start putting in place some mental or practical plans for the months and year ahead. However, after such a year of change and unexpected events, which has left many people feeling tired and ready for a break, it doesn’t feel as easy to do that.

I don’t know about you, but I think that’s ok – I think it’s a gentle, kind thing to do to go easy on ourselves, and not expect the same level of clear-headedness, insight and planning in the midst of what has been, some uncertain times.

This year I wanted to focus on the things we’ve managed to achieve this year. At The Y, we’ve expanded our youth development programme, and made a positive difference in the lives of thousands of Kiwis who we’ve connected with – either by coming into one of our facilities, or through the growing numbers of programmes we operate out in the community. We’ve launched a new system to help many of our members and customers more easily plan and book their Y service, so that we can spend more time where it matters the most – connecting face-to-face as people. And we’ve done this through floods, growing costs, and changing environments.

If I could share anything with you, it’s to take the opportunity to look back and celebrate what you’ve achieved this year. There’s no such thing as perfect, and certainly there are a lot of things we can’t control, but I bet that if you look back, you’ve done some great things in 2023.

Here’s to a festive season where we accept where we are, find the happy in the moment, and enjoy the moments of sunshine.

Julian.

What's on at the Y

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Round the Bays with Raise Up

The Y was everywhere at March’s Round the Bays event. Runners, fundraisers, supporters... But the race couldn’t have gone on without the epic mahi of our awesome Raise Up volunteers. These passionate young people offered up their time to run the very necessary water stations across the route. With 6 stations in total across the racecourse, their role was integral for the runners’ and walkers’ well-being, preventing dehydration and offering uplifting cheers.

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Community Inspired Accessibility Initiative at North Shore

At The Y, we believe in the power of inspired and connected communities, where people are safe to reach their full potential; that is why we’re here. We aim to help identify and break down barriers, so more people can create and sustain their wellbeing journey across Tāmaki Makaurau, every single day. Part of that commitment is in creating inclusive and accessible fitness centres so that EVERYONE can enjoy.

Our North Shore team identified an opportunity to increase access; to reduce anxiety and sensory stress for customers with specific needs, such as autism, by providing a quieter and less stimulating environment in centre. Called ’quiet hour’, this recognises that people have different accessibility needs and creates an environment to match.

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The Y’s New Initiative: Mentoring the Future

In an exciting move, the Ministry of Development (MYD) has provided funding for The Y’s newest initiative, designed to uplift young New Zealanders facing adversity. This investment underscores MYD’s confidence in The Y’s proven expertise to guide vulnerable youth towards promising futures.

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GoldFit in Hamilton- Fitter than ever and winning everyone over

The Active Agers programme, a partnership between the Velodrome Cambridge and The Y Hamilton, has won the 2023 Waikato Sport & Active Recreation Awards for its outstanding contribution to the health and wellbeing of seniors in the Waikato community.

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Reflecting on the last year’s mahi - Annual Report

The Y North is proud to present our annual report for the year 2022-2023, a year that tested our resilience, adaptability, and commitment to our mission. Even in the face of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, chaotic weather, and a challenging social scape, The Y has continued to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds to explore and enjoy opportunities to learn, grow and thrive.

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The Happiness Project

We all want to experience more joy and laughter in our hectic and complex world, and to lead a life that is rich, rewarding, and fun. But sometimes, life gets in the way. You can feel burdened by your obligations, anxious from your problems, or dulled by your habits. Sometimes, you are just too exhausted, you get trapped in a cycle, or you feel too overwhelmed. But by managing some of the little things, when the world is so unpredictable, you can feel more like you are flourishing, not just coping. We have some small tips from the experts to share that could make 2024 a little smoother and a little brighter for you.

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Next Gen Fashion - Walk The Line

The Y's Walk the Line fashion event 2023 was a dazzling display of young talent and creativity, this youth run fashion show took over the runway during NZ Fashion Week. The audience was treated to a feast of colours, textures, and shapes, as well as some clever and innovative solutions to fashion challenges. The event was a testament to the passion and potential of our local youth, who proved that they could walk the line with confidence and flair.

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Engaging and Connecting with our Community at The Y

Our Statement of Services reporting connects how our mahi every day positively impacts young people and communities, with the mission of delivering strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. Our Statement of Services is a detailed reporting of how we serve, highlighting a snapshot of the positive benefit the Y has made in the community in the last 12 months.

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Giving our children the gift of wonder in our outstanding outdoors

How can we help our kids have a better balance between screens and nature? One of the best things we can do is to encourage them to go outside and explore the natural world. Nature offers many opportunities for kids to grow, learn, and have fun. Check out how The Y is working to ensure all kids get the opportunity to experience the benefits for well-being, belonging, discovery, education and movement in nature. The Y supports outdoor activities and programmes for children of all ages and abilities.

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Fighting for the Dream with Filimaea

The Y is a place where we help others realise their potential, but it doesn't stop with our members! The Y supports our staff to realise their own potential too. Find out more about our amazing lifeguard, Filimaea, and his boxing success.

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Fun with FIFA at The Y

Auckland was one of the host cities for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, which was the first edition of the tournament to be co-hosted by two countries: Australia and New Zealand. The city buzzed with excitement and anticipation as it welcomed fans from all over the world to celebrate the beautiful game and support their favourite teams. And The Y was part of it all.

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Discovering Your Full Potential: The Y and Outward Bound Partnership

Are you ready to push your limits and discover your full potential? Look no further than the exciting partnership between The Y and Outward Bound in New Zealand. This unique collaboration provides scholarships for The Y employees to attend the renowned Outward Bound courses, where challenge and adventure await in the great outdoors. Find out what this programme offers and hear from some of our staff who have taken part in this life-changing experience.

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