Techapuna:  Shore Junction - a youth hub that will support innovation, creativity and freethinking

Shore Junction will foster youth innovation and cater to high school and tertiary learners, including students that don’t necessarily fit into the traditional school mould.

In an ever-changing world that’s complicated and at times confusing, as a young person the pressure to make the right decisions and succeed can be overwhelming. 

Shore Junction is being designed and developed in direct response to the needs and challenges of today’s youth. It’s an exciting new project that really gets young people and will measurably improve their wellbeing.

Shore Junction was initially conceptualised and developed by YOUnite which is the local youth board for Devonport-Takapuna. Construction is currently underway to transform the former Takapuna RSA into ‘two levels of amazing’. It is set to open in January 2019. 

The centre will cater to high school and tertiary learners, including students that don’t necessarily fit into the traditional school mould.

The aim is to provide a space where creativity and self-expression is celebrated and everyone is accepted. Students are encouraged to try new things and meet new people. 

Shore Junction will provide technical facilities, integrated courses and events that encourage young people to successfully transition to further education, enterprise and employment. It will allow them to develop the critical skills, connections and networks to innovate and succeed in a modern economy.

Community Director, Melanie Barr explains, “My personal objectives are to ensure that Shore Junction creates a positive imprint on the community and provides a safe environment for students to create, collaborate, innovate and learn.” 

The Shore Junction community is made up of individuals, businesses, youth, parents, schools and government representatives all working towards a supportive and youth-friendly community.

“Takapuna has so much going on, the whole North Shore does. We are spoilt by the number of engineering and tech companies based in Takapuna, the business expertise available on our front door and the atmosphere of the community is always positive and upbeat,” says Barr.

Pioneering tomorrow’s generation of change-makers, Shore Junction is set to become another important player in the Grow North Innovation District ecosystem. An ecosystem that will foster talent, validate ideas and take them to the global market quickly.

Source: Shore Junction - a youth hub that will support innovation, creativity and freethinking. 03 April 2018. Grow North.