Our Services

At the Wairoa Young Achievers Trust (WYAT), we are passionate about empowering our community’s youth and supporting individuals to reach their full potential. Through our range of programmes, we provide tailored guidance, resources, and practical support to help people overcome challenges and find success in education, training, and employment. Whether you need assistance getting a driver’s licence, transitioning into the workforce, or navigating parenthood while studying, WYAT is here to help. Our dedicated team of youth coaches and support staff work closely with each participant to ensure they have the tools to create a brighter future.

Explore our key services below:

Youth Services

WYAT offers comprehensive support for young people through our NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), Youth Payment (YP), and Young Parent Payment (YPP) programmes. We provide personalised coaching to help young people find their direction, overcome life’s challenges, and access financial support.

  • NEET: Supports 16-17 year-olds who are out of school, providing youth coaching, connections to training, and practical help like getting a driver’s licence.

  • Youth Payment (YP): Financial assistance for 16-17 year-olds unable to live with family, helping them focus on education or work while receiving mentoring support.

  • Young Parent Payment (YPP): Designed for young parents aged 16-19, this programme provides financial and parenting support while helping you continue your education or job training.

He Poutama Rangitahi (HPR)

For young people aged 16 to 24 at risk of long-term unemployment, He Poutama Rangitahi offers one-on-one coaching to help you find the right path, whether in education, training, or employment. We provide ongoing support, including help with driver’s licences, specialised licences, and job-related resources, to ensure you are equipped to achieve your goals.

Mayors Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ)

WYAT partners with the Wairoa District Council and Mayor Craig Little to deliver the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs initiative, offering job seekers practical support and guidance into employment or training. With no age restrictions, MTFJ helps local people develop essential skills, access financial assistance, and connect with employment opportunities. We also offer support to local employers through wage subsidies and post-placement assistance.

Ākonga Programme

In partnership with the Ministry of Education and Wairoa College, The Ākonga Programme supports students in Years 11 to 13 by helping them overcome barriers to learning and achieve NCEA Levels 1, 2, and 3. Our youth coaches work with students to set goals, build confidence, and prepare for future career pathways. Whether it’s academic support or guidance towards independence, we’re here to help you succeed.

Driver Licensing Programmes

WYAT’s Matawhānui Licence Pathway Model and Ngatahi Licence Programme provide structured support for individuals at every stage of the licensing process. From learner’s courses to practical driving tests, we ensure participants have the resources they need to become safe, competent drivers. Our programmes also offer pastoral care, making allowances for test resits and access to a community-donated training vehicle.

For adults over the age of 24, Ngatahi extends these benefits to the broader Wairoa community, addressing challenges around licence testing availability and helping residents become fully licensed drivers.