
Youth Hub stage one opens
While there are many youth hubs popping up, Youth Hub Christchurch stands out for its sheer scale and built-in supported housing facilities.
A first of its kind in New Zealand, late last year the $21 million first stage, designed to tackle youth mental health and wellbeing, was officially opened by Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro. Youth health doctor and Chair of the Youth Hub Trust, Dame Sue Bagshaw says the opening of the Hub is a big milestone. “Ever since the earthquakes we have been seeking to build a place for young people in Christchurch to be themselves and belong,” she says.
Stage One of the Hub includes shared working spaces for a dozen youth providers including anchor tenants Te Tahi Youth, Voyce Whakarongo Mai, Youthline, Rerenga Awa Canterbury Youth Workers Collective and the Christchurch Youth Council, as well as an outdoor activities courtyard.
These opened to the public in December, while the Trust and Christchurch Methodist Mission are gearing up to open a supported housing wing with 22 bedrooms in February. Meanwhile, an Events and Activities Centre will be built in 2025.
“We are halfway to completing the Hub. However, we still need to fundraise to build a second wing of supported housing and communal spaces for education, training, recreation
and creativity,” says Sue.
“I am confident we will get there. We are also very fortunate to have a great team – from our architects Field Studio, structural engineer Lewis Bradford & Associates, building team from Naylor Love and suppliers including Quantum, Autex and Hush who have got right in behind what we are trying to achieve for Christchurch’s young people. “The attention to detail and care taken to construct the Hub has been truly remarkable and will help the Hub stand the test of time,” Sue adds.
The Hub is expected to deliver more than 8000 connection points with young people aged 10-24 annually. Further information about the Youth Hub, including ways to donate, are available on its website.
Empowering futures
A widely commented on feature of the Hub’s youth services building is its cork floor.
Wise Cork was selected for many reasons, including its warmth and sound dampening qualities, due to the cellular structure of cork which provides a comfortable cushion underfoot, as well as natural insulation.
It also pairs well with the extensive wood construction and bright colours in the Hub. This helps the space feel calm, welcoming and non-institutional for visiting young people. Not to mention its strong sustainability and durability credentials, with cork being hypoallergic and able to withstand more than 2000 chemicals. “This project marks an important step forward for acceptance of cork in New Zealand particularly in commercial projects. Youth Hub Christchurch is a remarkable facility for Christchurch’s young people and a very special moment in NZ for cork – a milestone Quantum is very proud of,” Quantum’s Commercial Sales Manager Shaun Foster says.
Images: Dennis Radermacher