We believe youth flourish when they are valued, know they belong and have opportunities to experience success.
We provide a range of services for youth (10 – 24 years) in the Te Awaroa / Helensville area that focus on wellbeing and celebrate the unique potential of every young person.
Proudly based in Te Awaroa, South Kaipara, New ZealandStories of impact and change
Real Lives. Real Struggles. Real Triumphs. Explore the transformative journeys shaping the future of our community.
The Transformational Journey of Nikora, A Youth Mentoring Success Story
Nikora (not his real name) had always shown potential, but like many young people, he faced challenges that could either make or break his future. The key to unlocking his full potential was a strong mentoring relationship, a cornerstone initiative at Outwest…
Bonding Over Baking: A Year of Growth and Friendship with Tui
“This year has been a great year for Tui (not her real name) and me. At times her friend would also join us for our sessions. We met each week on a Tuesday for 1.5 hours. Through our conversations, I discovered that…
Milestones and Mahi: Celebrating Alternative Education Graduations
Big moments deserve big recognition. That’s why graduations at Outwest Youth’s Alternative Education programme are not just a ceremony but a celebration of resilience, dedication, and hard-won victories. Our graduates have journeyed long, earning their NCEA Literacy and Numeracy credits, gaining invaluable…
From Struggles to Success: The Inspiring Journey of James
James (not his real name) was a Youth Service client for two years. When he first enrolled he had a complex array of mental health, family and anger issues which the school social worker was very concerned about. In addition, James struggled…The Journey with 24-7 YouthWork: A Trek of Transformation
Embarking on a 10-day adventure, Year 10 students aren’t just traversing through rugged terrains on bikes, kayaks, and tramping boots—they’re navigating their way through the complexities of friendship, self-discovery, and personal growth. This excursion, aptly named ‘THE JOURNEY,’ is a cornerstone of…Alternative Education Spotlight: Empowering Financial Independence Through Budgeting Tools
Financial literacy is an essential skill, often overlooked in traditional educational settings. Recognising the need to empower young people with the ability to manage their money wisely, Outwest Youth, in collaboration with a local budgeting advisor, recently wrapped up another successful three-day…Accelerating Youth Empowerment: How Outwest Youth Drives Success on the Road and Beyond
At Outwest Youth, we believe in giving young people the tools they need to navigate life—sometimes quite literally. We recently caught up with three young individuals who completed our Learner Licence course to hear about their experiences and the impact it has…Communication Unlocked: Tim’s Transformation Through Alternative Education and Technology
In the midst of school dropouts and a global pandemic, Tim found a lifeline in alternative education and a simple phone. Discover how this one device transformed his educational journey and rekindled his family connections.…Cultivating Wellbeing: The Roots of Community in South Kaipara
When Jo from South Kaipara Good Food approached Outwest Youth with an intriguing question—Would you like help growing your community garden?—the answer was an enthusiastic “Yes!” Partnering with this organisation wasn’t just about tending to soil and plants; it was about sowing…
Beating the Odds: A Triumph on the Road to Adulthood
When life throws curveballs, it’s easy to strike out. But one of our Youth Service clients showed us what true resilience looks like. Despite a mountain of setbacks—from COVID to family issues and ID hurdles—this young Kiwi was laser-focused on one goal:…
Passionate youth workers supporting local rangatahi to a place of belonging, success, and community connection
Our mahi – Programmes
24-7 YouthWork
We have two 24-7 youth workers in Kaipara College. 24-7 is a nationwide youth work movement that embeds youth workers in schools through a partnership between the school and a local church.
Youth Service (MSD)
Our youth workers holistically support and mentor young people, helping them toward positive outcomes and good life choices.
Alternative Education
In partnership with Kaipara College, we provide those youth aged 13 – 16, who cannot continue in mainstream schooling, with an alternative fulltime relationship-based education.
Heads Up Mentoring
Young people who come to the attention of the police often need the support of a mentor to help them fulfil requirements and sanctions imposed by the court or Youth Justice system.
Drive Outwest
Our Drive Outwest programme runs free learner licence courses, and provides practical support for those preparing for their restricted and full licence tests.
E Tū Tauira
This programme extends our mahi into local primary schools as well as Kaipara College. E Tū Tauira is a fun interactive, co-curated series of workshops for Year 7–13 students, that focus on wellbeing, group dynamics, leadership development, and positive contribution.