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August 29. Photo supplied
Pohutukawa Coast teenagers are being invited to reconnect with old friends at a youth ball in Beachlands this month.
The Pohutukawa Coast Youth Council (PCYC) is organising the 2026 Youth Ball for students in years 11-13 at Rydges Formosa Auckland Golf Resort on Saturday, August 29. The group says the event was developed after young people responding to a community survey identified a formal ball as a high priority.
Chairperson Blake Ingram says local teenagers can become disconnected from friends when they leave the Pohutukawa Coast to attend secondary schools elsewhere and the ball is intended to give them an opportunity to reconnect.
“This event aims to bridge that gap, offering a familiar, welcoming space for students to reconnect with childhood friends and celebrate their shared community identity.
“The Youth Ball is more than just a party – it’s an opportunity for our teenagers to reconnect with childhood friends and build a stronger sense of belonging within our community as they navigate their high school years.”
The evening is set to include a buffet dinner, DJ and lighting, photo wall and photographer to capture the night’s fun memories. PCYC says security has been contracted for the duration of the event to ensure a safe and secure environment for all attendees.
“Our vision for this evening at the Rydges Formosa Auckland Golf Resort is to create a safe environment where our youth can celebrate their shared experiences and create lasting memories together,” event manager Charlotte Smith says.
The youth council says it hopes the local community will support the initiative, which will foster belonging and pride among older youth.
The event is supported by Franklin Local Board grant funding and PCYC reserves with the generous co-operation of local sponsors Rydges Formosa Golf Resort and Sisters on Wakelin.
The Pohutukawa Coast Youth Council is a volunteer-led organisation dedicated to representing and supporting the young people of the area through events, advocacy, and community-building initiatives.
