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You might feel the easiest solution is to ban your young person from all leisure use of devices or place strict rules around usage; but the most likely outcome of these sorts of ‘helicopter parent’ strategies is to drive your young person underground – they’ll continue to use, they just won’t tell you about it. There are better, trust-focused strategies that are far more likely to keep your young person safe online – Here's our top five ways to help you out.

The Apprenticeship Boost Initiative launched by the government last year supports employers with funding, enabling them to offer staff, access to an on-the-job qualification. This scheme has enabled us to provide a fantastic opportunity for our staff to undertake an apprenticeship while they work, and obtain an industry qualification. Staff members Grace Thompson and Belinda Jooste share their experiences and the value this course is bringing to their professional lives.

After the COVID-19 lockdowns, 17% of young people in Aotearoa are continuing to experience isolation and prolonged loneliness (Loneliness New Zealand Charitable Trust). In light of the increased need for support, we have established new Raise Up crews in South Auckland to provide more young people with opportunities to develop, connect and grow.

It’s that time of year again where we start noticing a few coughs and colds going around telling us that winter is here. Casey McLain, Fitness and Recreation Operations Manager at YMCA North shares his top five tips for staying physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy this winter.

Term 2 has seen the pilot of the brand new Y-Bots programme introduced into after-school care at Sunnybrae Normal School and Warkworth School. Kids showed much enthusiasm and engagement being introduced to coding and robotics.

Sarah Masefield, popularly known as Topsy, says that she was always the frail one in the family while growing up, and her dad even doubted her making it till adulthood. But Topsy had other plans. She defied all odds and lived to be a centenarian. In April 2021, we had the opportunity to celebrate Topsy’s 100^th birthday with our Y whānau. Here's how we celebrated.

In 2011, Raise Up's Walk the Line (WTL) established itself as the premier opportunity for young NZ designers to showcase their talent at NZ Fashion Weekend. Each year features a different theme for the youth to express their creativity through design. In its tenth year, WTL is back with a brand new theme shaping the future of fashion.

Living a healthy and active lifestyle - long time member Tevita Holani has seen his fair share of gyms around Auckland but says YMCA Lagoon Pool and Leisure Centre is his favourite. Here's why.

A bequest donated to YMCA North Shore and Recreation Centre by an ex-member who passed away early last year were used to re-do our stadium floors to give as many children and young people a wonderful experience.

Families report increased anxiety from lockdown. Kristina Ineson, Regional Manager for out of school care and recreation (OSCAR) for YMCA North, shares her top tips for supporting kid’s anxiety during tough times.

Diversity is truly our strength - and you would vouch for this when you come into our centres. One such is Greg's 'Fit N 30' group exercise class at YMCA Lagoon Pool & Leisure Centre, a favourite among the locals.

To make up for what we missed in 2020, Y Games 2021 is back with double the ZEAL! Gather your squad and come test your fitness to a whole new level. Music, spot prizes, team prizes, and food! Register now!