SECURING SEA SCOUTS HUB FOR THE FUTURE

Thanks to a PlaceMakers Foundation Big Build Grant, an iconic maritime hub in Auckland will serve the Aotea Sea Scouts for decades to come

Communities around the country thrive on facilities that bring them together, and PlaceMakers Foundation Big Build Project is committed to bettering or creating those where the community will benefit. For more than 100 years, Sea Scouts has provided youth aged 14 to 20 with an opportunity to challenge themselves, learn new skills and develop friendships, so investing in the renovation of the Aotea Sea Scouts’ hub was a win-win all round.

Used frequently by the 30 – 60 Aotea Sea Scouts, the notable historic landmark has stood the test of time after being constructed in 1911 and taken over by the group in 1967. Renovations of the kitchen and bathroom facilities, which had not been upgraded for 40 years, were desperately required to meet the needs of the Scouts, and enable them to also hire out the facility to other community groups to raise funds.

Stephen Lasham, one of the Aotea Sea Scout leaders, says that creating a safer, roomier and more functional kitchen and bathroom has been a goal for a long time, and the impacts extend beyond aesthetics.

“Thanks to this Big Build Grant, we can proudly hire out our building to help fund our activities and allow even more local kids to participate in Sea Scouts.”

The upgrade project, headed by the nearby PlaceMakers Mount Wellington, went very well according to Branch Manager Roger McRae, who was blown away by the support from suppliers.

“An incredible number of suppliers donated or discounted supplies, saving the project $30,000, meaning we could fund a high-quality renovation that will provide a lasting result,” said McRae.

“It was a fun project for a good cause, and our team found it very rewarding to be involved.”