Ms Cooper said she was aiming for a formal opening of the finished premises on April 30 and physical work on the building beginning in two weeks.
A cafe, computers, Wi-Fi, a stage, plenty of beanbags and seats, a private consultation room for a nurse and a counsellor, a meeting room and a table tennis table were on the list for the two-storey building.
A website was being set up and should be operating within a fortnight.
The ASB Community Trust has pledged $2,079,503 to the Whangarei Youth Space over five years through a Catalysts for Change programme.
The Youth Space will be a place where young people aged 12-24 can access services around leadership, health, support, career and skill development, as well as social activities.
Ms Cooper said the trust was creating more than just a hang-out zone. "All along it has been more than just a youth centre. It's about making a bigger difference," she said. "[It will be] an exciting, safe place for young people to learn and grow and connect with each other as well as leading change and inspiring futures."