other-projects

The Wairoa Young Achievers Trust has played a key role in initiating and collaborating on numerous projects aimed at supporting and strengthening individuals and organisations within the Wairoa community.

The Trust also provides essential support for local groups and individuals that may not be legally constituted, enabling them to apply for funding through an umbrella structure. Recent projects include:

Rangi-houa / Pilot Hill Access Project:

The Trust secured $20,000 from the Walking Access Commission’s Enhanced Access Fund to complete a walkway, greatly improving access to the Rangi-houa / Pilot Hill area. Once a popular reserve and viewpoint, this project has restored the site as a destination for locals and visitors alike.

Wairoa Ross Shield & Lambton Square Upgrade:

The Trust played a pivotal role in supporting the Wairoa Ross Shield, a regional event that catered to children up to Year Eight (age 12). The club was responsible for organising local coaching, refereeing, and training, as well as coordinating the hosting of the annual Ross Shield tournament. By facilitating the creation of composite teams from rural and town schools, the Trust ensured that all children had a chance to participate, even if their school or club couldn’t field a full team.

In preparation for the 2014 Ross Shield tournament, the Trust successfully raised $100,000 to upgrade the facilities at Lambton Square. The long-awaited improvements transformed the venue into a safe and accessible hub for sport and recreation, just in time for the event. That year, Wairoa hosted the tournament, drawing around 5,000 visitors to the town—a significant event for the district and an opportunity to showcase the newly upgraded Lambton Square. Today, the venue stands as a proud community asset, well-utilised for a wide range of sporting events and activities.

Wairoa Christmas Parade and Concert:

The Trust has been instrumental in revitalising the Wairoa Christmas Parade, first held in 2013. Their continued fundraising efforts helped support the successful 2014 and 2015 events.

Sir James Carroll Walkway:

The Trust supported the installation of signage along the Sir James Carroll Walkway, providing work experience and NZQA credits to young people involved in the NEET/YP/YPP programmes. This project engaged local youth, offering valuable experience while contributing to the community’s historical preservation.

Wairoa Athletics Club:

The Trust played a key role in re-establishing the Wairoa Athletics Club, which now calls Lambton Square home. With membership growing significantly each season, hundreds of young athletes now participate in the club’s activities. By late 2015, the club had grown enough to become a stand-alone entity, capable of managing its own fundraising and administration.

Through these initiatives, the Wairoa Young Achievers Trust continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering community development and enhancing opportunities for the people of Wairoa.