Youthtown provides a free drop-in place close to the heart of the city for everyone between the ages of seven and eighteen.

Our main site in Nelson Street is a long-established Auckland landmark, loved by users for its spaciousness and the range of its facilities. It's also somewhere that young people can be themselves, in an environment they can truly call their own.

Young Aucklanders made a total of more than 100,000 visits to Youthtown in 2005. Entry and use of many facilities is free for youth under 18 years of age. This includes use of our 25 metre heated, indoor swimming pool or our top quality basket ball gym, used on occasions by members of New Zealand's "Tall Blacks" international squad.

Our purpose-designed Youth Lounge is the ideal ambience for teenagers to hang-out with people of their own age, and enjoy themselves without anyone imposing an agenda on them.

In addition, Youthtown runs regular, highly successful After School and School Holiday programmes, featuring an unparalleled range of sports, games, trips, arts and cultural activities. We also provide innovative Youth events for the 13 plus age group, as well as ski-camps and other outdoor expeditions and activities.

Apart from its presence in Central Auckland, Youthtown has a suburban facility in Panmure and holds regular School Holiday programmes both there and in Pakuranga. There are plans for further activities and facilities elsewhere in Auckland and, eventually, beyond.

Our Vision

To set the standards for Youth Programmes and Recreational activities

Our Mission

Youthtown gives young people opportunities for physical, social and creative experiences. In order to build self esteem and confidence, we provide specialized quality programmes and guidance in a supportive environment. This is delivered by passionate and committed staff, contributing to a positive foundation for New Zealand's Youth.

What We Value

Honesty - To be honest in all that we are and all that we do

Responsibility - To be personally reliable, responsible and truthful with an attitude of confidence and respect for others

Confidence – We don't let setbacks break our stride.

Respect - To work in mutual harmony, appreciating each other's differences, beliefs and personal space.

Inclusiveness - Youthtowns environment encourages everyone's participation in achieving goals.

Our History

In 1932 New Zealand was in the Depression. Boystown, as it became known, was started by a city publican in the basement of what is now the Freemans Bay Hotel as a boxing club, haven and soup kitchen for the homeless and underprivileged boys of the time.

The gym became a popular point for youth for the next 14 years until, in 1946, the centre moved to Parnell. The Police became associated in 1956, giving enthusiastic support. By the 1960s the Club had outgrown its Parnell premises and Sir Dove Myer Robinson led the fundraising to rebuild the club.

In May 1968 the current purpose-built premises at 68a Nelson Street were opened at a cost of $500,000. Girls were welcomed in the 1970s, and in 1986 the name was changed to Youthtown to reflect better the representation of both boys and girls. Since 1986 over 2.7 million visits have been recorded.