Ōpōtiki Rangatahi Pā is continuing to build momentum in Term 2, offering a range of programmes designed to support tamariki and rangatahi to connect, create and thrive across the community.

Following a busy and successful April holiday programme, the kaupapa is growing stronger – with increased participation, deeper community partnerships, and new opportunities for young people to engage both in and out of kura.

Over the holidays, Ōpōtiki Rangatahi Pā worked alongside Te Tāhuhu o te Rangi to deliver a wide range of activities, including podcasting, filmmaking, creative workshops, an Ōpōtiki Amazing Race, and skatepark competitions.

The final day saw more than 45 young people attend, alongside whānau and pēpi – highlighting the demand for safe, engaging spaces for rangatahi.

Founder Alex Le Long says the growth reflects a wider need within the community.

“We’re seeing more and more of our young people showing up – not just for the activities, but for the connection. These spaces matter. They give our rangatahi a place to belong, to express themselves, and to build confidence in who they are.”

Programmes for Term 2 include podcasting sessions at Te Tāhuhu o te Rangi every Tuesday from 3pm-5pm, the long-standing CraftyVibes creative programme on Wednesdays from 3pm-5pm, and the introduction of regular basketball sessions at Ōpōtiki College gym on Fridays from 3pm-5pm.

The organisation is also continuing to develop Ōpōtiki Horizons Press, a rangatahi-led micro-publishing platform that supports young writers, creatives and storytellers to share their voices through articles, podcasts and media.

In addition to afterschool programmes, Ōpōtiki Rangatahi Pā is expanding its in-school presence.

Weekly sessions are being delivered at Te Mana Māori o Maraenui, where students are developing skills in filmmaking, podcasting and communication through kaupapa Māori approaches.

Work is also under way to support literacy engagement through initiatives at Ōpōtiki Primary School library.

The kaupapa continues to emphasise collaboration across the rohe – bringing together kura, whānau, and community organisations to support tamariki and rangatahi development.

“Our approach has always been collective,” says Ms Le Long.

“In kura, out of kura, in our community, at our marae – wherever our young people are, that’s where we want to be supporting them.”

Ōpōtiki Rangatahi Pā is also calling on the community to get involved – whether through sharing skills, supporting programmes, or helping expand opportunities for local youth.

As participation continues to grow, so too does the vision: creating sustainable, accessible pathways for tamariki and rangatahi in Ōpōtiki to explore their interests, build confidence, and step into their potential.