Meet the team
Get to know the amazing volunteers at HANGOUTWho we are
The team of volunteers all bring a range of experience and knowledge. Each of them share and understand the importance of being present in the lives of youth and being available to support them through these challenging years.

Kim
Director
As the director of Hangout Kims purpose is to provide a safe space for tamariki to “hangout”. With a passion for supporting the well being of youth in the community, Kim enjoys seeing the difference that a little support can make to their lives, and watching the friendships that form.

Hamish
Hamish joined the team end of 2021. Hamish’s relaxed nature means he is able to connect with our tamariki and support them however needed. Hamish has recently graduated as a Counsellor, he is also the treasurer and overseas all expenditures. Hamish enjoys helping our tamariki learn, grow, overcome challenges and have fun at Hangout.

Tracey
Tracey joined the team mid 2021. Tracey brings a grounded, mother presence to the team. When Tracey is there you will find her making toasties and connecting with the tamariki around the food table. Tracey enjoys the company of the tamariki and adults at Hangout. She loves to hear the kids thoughts on topics we discuss, and on life in general!

Rob
Rob has been a part of the team from the planning stages. Rob is a vital part of the Hangout Volunteers and he’s a father figure to many of our youth.

Chris
Chris joined Hangout mid 2021. Chris has a background in the Police, was a scout leader and has run many programmes in schools. Having this experience and working with tamariki is an asset to the team.

Piper
Piper has been with Hangout from the early days. She brings a youthful presence to the group and is a key member of the team. Piper is currently studying to become a counsellor.

Lily
Lily began at Hangout as one of our first youth to attend to then quickly moving into a volunteer role. She brings a youthful presence to the team and is a strong guide for our student volunteer team. Lily has a passion for fitness and wellbeing, she loves to see the kids running around whilst interacting with one and other.

Gavin
Gavin joined hangout in 2023 after his son started attending. Gavin enjoys putting in the time and effort into interacting and having converstations with the kids.

Nikki
Nikki joined Hangout mid 2023 with her youngest son Cole. After volunteering for 2 years Nikki has moved away from Upper Hutt so has stepped back and provides admin support.

Mandy
Mandy joined Hangout late 2023. Over the years she has been a volunteer with Girl Guides and Upper Hutt Toy Library. Mandy enjoys meeting new kids and hanging out with them.

Zoey
Youth Leader
I have been a youth attending Hangout since the very first night and have attended almost every Thursday for the last 4 years. Hangout has truly been one of my main safe spaces and I am forever grateful for each and every one of the volunteers.

Jackson
Youth Leader
I have been at Hangout since it first started in 2021. After taking a break and attending an LSV course in Trentham during 2024, I have returned as a youth leader and I am here to support all the youngins.

Te Maiti
Youth Leader
I started attending Hangout as one of the youth in 2021. After taking a break and attending an LSV course in Christchurch during 2024, I have returned as a youth leader. I enjoy coming to Hangout to play basketball and interact with all the youth and volunteers.

Tane
Youth Leader
I have been attending Hangout since 2023 as a youth attendee. Since finishing school I am now studying to become a youth worker and have progressed to a youth leader at Hangout. I enjoy everything about youth and like to provide a safe space for the younger people.