Funded through the council’s youth services, Rangatahi Rise is available to all young people living in Hastings aged 12 to 24.
When young people join the programme, they’ll receive free membership and $1 entry to Clive War Memorial Pool, Flaxmere Pool and Havelock North Village Pool.
Members will also have $1 access to casual court sessions and sports equipment at Hastings Sports Centre for a wide range of activities, including basketball, badminton, volleyball, table tennis and boxing gear.
Councillor and community and civic futures subcommittee chair Hana Montaperto-Hendry said membership is about making it easier for young people to look after their physical and mental wellbeing.
“We know how important being active is for young people’s health, confidence, and connection to their community.
“Rangatahi Rise is about removing barriers and opening doors, so our young people can rock on up, feel supported and take full advantage of the great facilities we have here in Hastings.”
The initiative builds on the success of other council-supported access programmes, like the Senior Super Gold Swim Pass which saw admissions increase from 11,802 in 2024 to 15,329 in 2025, demonstrating that removing cost barriers can significantly increase participation.
Membership and facility use would be measured over an initial six-month period before a decision on continuing the programme is made.
Young people can sign up for the Rangatahi Rise membership at Aquatics Hastings facilities or the Hastings Sports Centre, or online at aquaticshastings.co.nz.
Under-16s will require parental permission.
