Y Central (YMCA)

About Y Central (YMCA)

Y Central Y-Kids are a place where children can learn, grow and thrive. Our staff design and deliver high-quality recreation based programmes, where the aim is to meet the needs of children in their out of school hours in a fun, safe learning environment. Each child is a different, unique person. While they have commonalities, their uniqueness should be embraced and fostered.


Our programmes are delivered across 13 sites around the Lower North Island, providing care for more than 3,000 children each year.

We consider ourselves a child-safe organisation. Ensuring a safe environment for children and young people is our highest priority. Y Central goes above the legislative requirements for best practice processes to keep children and young people safe, and we value and respect parents as partners in the care and education of their children.

Our four values at the Y are Caring, Respect, Honesty, and Responsibility. They are the foundation of building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. They are how we make a difference.

For eligible families enrolled in our MSD approved programmes, WINZ subsidies can assist with reducing the costs of our services for those families that qualify.