waiau pā youth
TUESDAY night youth group
We meet every Tuesday from 6 to 8pm during term time at Waiau Pā Church.
Usually for Year 8 and older, we’ve now reached the time of the year where we welcome Year 7s to join as part of our transition into next year. If you’re in Year 7 and up, come along for games, snacks, chats, and a chance to hang out with friends in a relaxed, positive space.
Whether you’re new or you’ve been coming for a while, there’s always something fun happening - and we’d love to see you!
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What can I expect on a typical evening at Youth Group?
Youth Group is held on Tuesday evenings during term time (we take a break over the school holidays). At 6pm, the youth garage and hall are open, and while people are arriving there's a bit of time to hang out.
Then Nick will gather us all for some games - sometimes indoors, sometimes on the field - there's something for everyone!
After that, we break for a snack and something to drink (at the moment with it being cold we've been having hot chocolates) and Nick will share a 5 minute message / devotion.
We finish up the evening with free time - basketball, four square, pool, darts, table tennis, nerf wars, cornhole, card games, board games, or just sit on the couches and chat.
Youth Group finishes at 8pm.
Who is Youth Group for?
Youth Group is for any young people in our community aged Year 8 and High School age.... at this time of year, we open it up to Year 7s as well, as part of our transition into next year. Our aim is to support young people in our local community of Waiau Pā / Clarks Beach - though we do have others come from Pukekohe too, who are very welcome! You do not need to be a Christian or attend church to come to Youth Group.
Who runs Youth Group?
Youth Group is run by Nick De Matos (Waiau Pā Church Youth Coordinator) and supported by Liz Kelso (Waiau Pā Church Community Relationship Coordinator).
Nick lives in Waiau Pā with his wife, 2 sons and several pets! Previously working at Camps, he now works for New Foundations Trust - mentoring at risk young people who are in alternative education. He has many creative ideas for games and activities, and has a heart for supporting young people.
Liz lives in Clarks Beach with her husband, 2 teenage sons and tween daughter - and their dog and cat. With a background in teaching, Liz has taught many different ages over the years (from babies up to adults) - most recently having taught Year 7/8 at the local school. She also founded and runs the local basketball club.
Does it cost to attend?
No - Youth Group is free.
Do I need to commit to coming every week?
No, no need to commit - just come along when you'd like to.
Do I need to register?
Yes please - just so we have all contact/medical information for the young people attending. Please fill in the google form here
Do parents need to stay?
No - you can drop your young person off at 6pm and pick them up again at 8pm. You're welcome to stay and hang out if you'd like to though!
I have more questions - who I can contact?
Email Nick - youth@waiaupachurch.org.nz
sunday morning youth
On Sunday mornings, we have a separate youth programme for teens during our 10am church service. Youth join the church service for the first couple of songs, then head out to the Youth Garage for their own programme. It’s a great time to dig a little deeper into God and faith, with discussions and activities that help young people explore what it all means for them.
After the session, there’s morning tea and plenty of time to hang out - whether it’s a game of darts, pool, table tennis, or shooting hoops.