Teens just want a space to hang out, study finds
Having hang out space, places to eat and be with community are key findings from a survey of youth recreational needs in west Auckland.
The Hobsonville Point Youth Recreational Study was carried out by the Hobsonville Community Trust (HTC) during March and April.
The research, which aimed to profile youth recreational needs, involved more than 100 locals, including young people, and focus groups with students at Hobsonville Point secondary and primary schools.
Findings from the study included demand for indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, an easily accessible swimming pool, and desire for regular gatherings around sport and music.
HCT youth worker Jacque Williams said youth wanted places to hang out together which were safe. It didn’t need to be expensive, she said, but just ‘‘practical for the young people to come together’’.
Also noted was a gap in basketball and tennis courts, athletics facilities, cricket nets and a workshop or hobbies area. The trust estimated there would be around 3000 youth living in Hobsonville Point and 3000 more in Scott Point over the next 10 years.