2023–24 has been a transformative year for YMCA Hawke’s Bay—one filled with connection, learning, and the courage to pivot when needed. While challenges like Cyclone Gabrielle and ongoing funding pressures have tested us, we’re proud of the resilience shown by our staff, volunteers, board, and wider community. Here's a look at some key highlights and milestones.
Strengthening National Connections
This year we’ve had the chance to connect more intentionally with YMCA Presidents across Aotearoa through the Amplify the Y initiative. These purposeful connections have allowed us to support each other and discuss national challenges in a meaningful way.
Under the leadership of our new General Manager, and a re-energised team, we’ve launched a number of new initiatives that reflect our mission to serve the evolving needs of our community:
Y Ki Waho Play Trailer: Since launching in late October, our mobile play service has visited parks across the region, engaging 778 participants, 43% of whom are Māori. A hit with 6–10-year-olds, the trailer brings fun and connection to local spaces.
Youth Programmes: Our youth groups, podcast (called "The Y’s"—because they "ask wise questions"), and leadership initiatives have gained strong traction. We're now working with 30 youth, offering regular meetups and creative outlets that reflect their voices.
Y Ara Volunteer Leadership: This programme is nurturing young leaders across our OSCAR sites. With 145 children and rangatahi involved and over 620 volunteer hours recorded, we’re proud to support youth stepping into leadership roles—some of whom have now become part of our staff team!
The Pou Project: A true highlight of the year. If you've visited our site, you’ve seen the carved pou that greet you at the entrance. Created by our rangatahi, these pou represent our whakapapa, our mission, and the four values that now guide our mahi moving forward.
Our Holiday and OSCAR programmes remain a core strength of YMCA HB. Despite cyclone disruptions reducing attendance at one of our sites, we continued delivery by relocating services and staying flexible. Holiday programme attendance held strong, and we also offered extra care during Teacher Only Days to support working parents.
As we close this chapter and look ahead, we’re excited by the possibilities. Our community has shown us what’s possible when we listen, adapt, and lead with heart. We remain committed to building a YMCA that serves Hawke’s Bay in a way that is relevant, empowering, and sustainable for years to come.
Ngā mihi nui to our staff, board, volunteers, partners, and whānau—this is your success too.
