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Raglan Naturally

Project Details

Whaingaroa Youthwork Collective – Nga Whakaruruhau Mahuri is a community-led initiative dedicated to supporting and uplifting rangatahi by connecting youth workers, mentors, and community supporters to collaborate, organise events, and advocate for youth in Raglan.

Feedback

“This Collective is the only space in the district that I know of, with all these types of people coming together.”

“In the work I do, this is really rare, a group like this with volunteers coming together to support youth.”

Community Event

Whaingaroa Youthwork Collective –  Nga Whakaruruhau Mahuri

Community Aspiration

  • A safe, caring, and age-friendly Raglan.
  • Celebration and respect for cultural diversity.
  • A strong focus on mental health and wellbeing.
  • Strengthened relationships with whānau, hapū, and iwi in alignment with Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Objective

  • Uplift the wellbeing of rangatahi.
  • Establish a dedicated youth-focused community group.

Established in late 2022, the Whaingaroa Youthwork Collective (WYC) provides a collaborative environment for youth workers, mentors, and community supporters. With the backing of RN’s CLD Coordinator, WYC has grown into a vital hub, organising meetings, securing funding, and facilitating projects to support local youth.

Sparked by concerns over rising anti-social behaviour post-COVID, Joseph Rao and Mike Rarere initiated the first hui, bringing together those working with rangatahi. Guided by kaumātua Sean Ellison, the collective was named Nga Whakaruruhau Mahuri—symbolising sheltering trees that nurture young saplings.

Since its inception, WYC has:

  • Hosted 9 youth events.
  • Run a youth logo competition.
  • Published positive rangatahi stories in The Chronicle.
  • Supported youth involvement in community projects.
  • Advocated for youth voices in local decision-making.

Recognising the need for a dedicated youth worker, WYC conducted community research (March–May 2024), engaging over 140 youth to identify needs and aspirations. RN and Raglan Community House are now exploring options for sustainable youth support.

Who Participated or Benefitted:

What Was Achieved: