The Y (YMCA Central South Island) is excited to announce a significant reinvestment in the Oamaru community, expanding its local footprint and programme offerings starting in early 2026. This move reinforces The Y’s deep commitment to nurturing the next generation right here in the Waitaki District.

For the past four years, The Y has been a trusted provider of Foundation Level 1 and 2 tertiary education, alongside the highly popular Y-Drive programme, operating from the ARA Campus on Humber Street. Now, they are strengthening their presence to meet growing local needs.

Keith Shaw, Chief Executive of The Y Central South Island, recently shared his enthusiasm for the expanded commitment. He highlighted the organisation’s dedication to providing empowering opportunities for local taiohi (young people) seeking alternatives to traditional schooling or needing essential driver education.

“The Y’s education and Y-Drive provision provides opportunities for taiohi to achieve success, prepare for future training or employment, whilst also building a sense of belonging and confidence,” Mr. Shaw stated.

While some services centralise, The Y is proudly staying local. “Naturally, long term sustainability relies on local enrolments and support,” says Keith, adding, “but The Y sees many young people living within the Waitaki District being well served by enrolling here at The Y.”

From the beginning of 2026, students will benefit from a dedicated expansion of the leased space at the ARA Campus, featuring separate, specialised classrooms for Level 1 and Level 2 tertiary education. The Y-Drive program will continue to offer learner, restricted, and full driver education lessons.

Beyond education, The Y is committed to responding to the community’s bespoke needs, including the successful return of the popular Y-Whānau parenting of teens course, which ran successfully in Oamaru during 2025.

To manage this growth and deepen its impact, The Y is actively recruiting a new, locally based Y Oamaru Manager. This key person will be tasked with growing The Y’s positive footprint and strengthening community ties.

If you know a young person who needs “a reset” or is struggling to thrive in a mainstream environment, The Y encourages you to reach out and see what a difference they can make.

“Take a look at what The Y has to offer by clicking on our education provision link https://ymcaeducation.ac.nz/ or on our Y-Drive provision link https://ymcasc.org.nz/ydrive/. You will be surprised on what we offer and how we can support your taiohi to achieve!” Mr. Shaw encourages the community.

Find out More: If you, or a young person you know, are interested in learning more, please contact Diane Schenkel in the first instance at diane@ymcasc.org.nz or 021 299 5312. Diane will ensure you are introduced to the most appropriate person on The Y’s friendly team.