Mapping Youth Needs in Maungakiekie-Tāmaki and Puketāpapa (2025)
Project lead: Julie Radford Poupard
In 2023–2024, Point conducted a comprehensive Rangatahi Asset Mapping and Needs Assessment across the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki and Puketāpapa local board areas. Commissioned by Auckland Council, the project aimed to identify gaps, strengths, and opportunities in youth services to guide future investment and support rangatahi wellbeing, belonging, and participation.
Research Approach
The assessment followed a five-phase methodology:
Scoping and planning with local boards
Literature scan of best practices in youth wellbeing
Stakeholder interviews with 30+ local organisations, service providers, and community leaders
Focus group with eight rangatahi to validate findings
Thematic analysis to identify barriers, gaps, and successful practices
Key Insights
Barriers to participation include lack of culturally safe spaces, limited drop-in centres, and few creative or employment pathways for disengaged youth.
Gaps in provision were noted in intermediate-age programming, upcycling and creative workshops, and targeted support for rangatahi Māori and Pacific youth.
What works: Youth-led initiatives, kai-based engagement, and spaces where rangatahi feel respected and valued.
Why It Matters
The findings offer actionable recommendations for local boards and community organisations to better support rangatahi. They also highlight the importance of youth voice, equity, and culturally responsive design in shaping future programmes.
