Rangatiratanga
Supporting and empowering young people to be a voice for themselves and to learn the skills and knowledge to make decisions aligning with their values.
Guided by our dedicated team, trustees, kaupapa, and a strong network of supporters and volunteers, we create opportunities for young people to thrive. Our work aligns with professional codes of conduct and ethics including- Ara Taiohi Youth Code of Ethics, SWRB Code of conduct, ANZASW Code of Ethics, NZAC Code of Ethics.
Whakatipu Youth Trust – Supporting Rangatahi, Strengthening Community
Whakatipu Youth Trust (WYT) was founded in April 2011 following the merger of Queenstown Life Trust (X-it Youth Workers) and Whakatipu District Youth Trust (Summit Youth Workers), each of which had been serving the community for over a decade.
Whakatipu Youth Trust is a well-established and vital part of the Queenstown and Central Lakes community. We work alongside young people aged 10–24, supporting them to develop the skills, confidence, well-being, and resilience they need to thrive.
As the only social service organisation in the Queenstown and surrounding area fully dedicated to this age group, WYT plays a unique and essential role in one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing areas. We are proud to have evolved into a dynamic space where young people can now access a wide range of free, youth-centred mental health, well-being, and social services, all under one roof.
We offer:
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Free, confidential, and youth-centred support
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Multidisciplinary, wraparound care that allows rangatahi to share their story once and receive holistic, coordinated help
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Access to trusted youth workers, social workers, counsellors, mentoring, attendance advisors, and youth justice support
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Vibrant programmes, activities, events, and community outreach
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A safe, welcoming youth centre — our tūrangawaewae (place of belonging)
Our services are delivered from three key sites in Frankton, Queenstown, and across nine local schools and community settings. We also house Wakatipu High School’s alternative education and transition-to-employment programs and Southern Health School throughout the year. Our facilities are used by various youth agencies for client meetings, Family Group Conferences, hot-desking, and collaborative support.
At the heart of our mahi is the community—our partners, funders, volunteers, and supporters. Whether through grants, sponsorships, government contracts, or the gift of time and energy, every contribution strengthens our impact. Each person involved is a valued part of our whakapapa, standing shoulder to shoulder with those who have built and sustained WYT across the years.
Together, we are investing in the future of our rangatahi—and in the health, strength, and mana of our whole community. It takes a village to raise a child.
At Whakatipu Youth Trust, we empower young people with the skills, self-worth, resilience, and support they need to reach their full potential. Through resources, opportunities, challenges, and safe environments, we foster trusted relationships that help youth lead positive, healthy lives within their community.
Our Values & Kaupapa
Manaakitanga
Providing a space where young people can thrive, feel safe and be authentically themselves. Ensuring all interactions, and relationships are based on compassion, respect and empathy.
Whanaungatanga
Building connection with young people, whanau and the community is at the core of our mahi. We recognise the importance of belonging and unity as an integral aspect to youth development, and resilient communities.
Whakarerekē
We are constantly evolving and responding to the needs of the community, aiming to adapt service delivery accordingly. Striving to enhance professional development as individuals and as an organisation to best serve the community.
Haumaru
Providing safety in the physical, emotional, cultural, spiritual, and social realm for all, whilst, ensuring services are delivered from a safe and ethical lens.
Annual Reports
Whakatipu Youth Trust writes an Annual Report each financial year to outline to our supporters, funders and the public what we have been doing and the successes we have had.
2024
2023
2022
