A new youth-focused initiative is creating more opportunities for rangtahi / youth across Māngere-Ōtāhuhu and Ōtara-Papatoetoe to connect, stay active, and feel a sense of belonging.
Rangatahi Piki Ake is a free drop-in pilot programme for 13-18 years old, offering a space where young people can turn up, be themselves, have fun, and build connections within their community.
The pilot runs throughout Term 2 (27 April to 3 July 2026), with the aim of continuing into Term 3, and its success will be shaped by the energy, presence, and voices of the rangatahi who take part.
Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Board Chair Kaea Walter Inoke- Togiamua says, "This is just one of many great ways local boards support youth, and it's awesome to see creative initiatives like this pilot rooted in the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu and Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board areas.
"This is what you asked for - we encourage our rangatahi to show up, take part, and make the most of it - this can continue, but it relies on the very people it was created for to get involved."
What's going down?
Delivered through a collaboration between Community Wellbeing and Pools and Leisure, from 27 April, the programme will run weekly sessions at two local centres:
- Thursdays at Moana Nui a Kiwa Pool and Leisure Centre in Māngere (3:30 - 6:00pm)
- Fridays at Allan Brewster Leisure Centre in Papatoetoe (3:30 - 6:00pm)
- no registrations or experience needed, rangatahi can simply turn up and get involved.
Sessions are packed with casual, social activities like basketball, volleyball, table tennis, badminton, and more - creating a relaxed, no-pressure environment where everyone can participate in their own way.
Matt Nash, Pools and Leisure Head of Operations for South Auckland shares, "We've heard directly from rangatahi that more free, welcoming spaces are needed. Piki Ake is our response - and strong turnout will help us take youth nights to more centres across Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland!"
While open to all young people, the initiative has a strong focus on supporting Māori rangatahi, helping create spaces where identity, culture, and connection are valued and strengthened - alongside providing a place to spend time after school.
So, if you’re 13–18, grab your mates and come through. No pressure, no cost - just good vibes, movement, and community.
Stay connected
Sign up for the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board and or Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board e-newsletter.