A few years ago, Greta Greenwood noticed something was missing, there were great spaces for kids and for teens, but a bit of a gap for those in between. That insight sparked the creation of Intermediate Hangs, a space designed just for 10–14 year olds to hang out, connect, and build friendships rooted in faith. Greta saw the need, and it’s been growing ever since.
Now, as the Children's and Families Enabler for the Nelson Diocese, I get to carry on what Greta began. I’ve seen how crucial it is for this age group to have something of their own. Intermediates are at a stage where friendships matter deeply, identity is taking shape, and faith can either flourish, or fade, if not nurtured. Intermediate Hangs gives them a chance to form faith-supporting friendships with others their age, while also creating spaces for youth leaders and parents to connect with them outside the usual church or youth group setting.
These events don’t just stand alone, they’re woven into our diocesan vision of growing vibrant communities of faith. Each hangout helps rangatahi feel like they belong to something bigger. It’s also a great entry point for their friends from school. Many who come have never stepped foot in a church, but they'll turn up for a pool party or games night. It's a safe, easy place to experience Christian community.
Youth leaders are key to this kaupapa. These events are designed to support their work, not add pressure. By coming along and connecting with their young people in a fun, low-pressure setting, they strengthen relationships that feed directly back into their own local ministries. It’s one less event they have to organise, and one more way to support their discipleship journey.
We run Intermediate Hangs monthly in the Nelson area, usually on the first Sunday afternoon of the month. The next one is this weekend: Sunday 1 June, 2–4pm at the Richmond Aquatic Centre. It’s just $3 and includes an ice block. Parents are welcome to stay or drop off, and youth leaders, come join in and connect with your crew!
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More articles in the
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We have invited these writers to share their experiences, ideas and opinions in the hope that these will provoke thought, challenge you to go deeper and inspire you to put your faith into action. These articles should not be taken as the official view of the Nelson Diocese on any particular matter.
A few years ago, Greta Greenwood noticed something was missing, there were great spaces for kids and for teens, but a bit of a gap for those in between. That insight sparked the creation of Intermediate Hangs, a space designed just for 10–14 year olds to hang out, connect, and build friendships rooted in faith. Greta saw the need, and it’s been growing ever since.
Now, as the Children's and Families Enabler for the Nelson Diocese, I get to carry on what Greta began. I’ve seen how crucial it is for this age group to have something of their own. Intermediates are at a stage where friendships matter deeply, identity is taking shape, and faith can either flourish, or fade, if not nurtured. Intermediate Hangs gives them a chance to form faith-supporting friendships with others their age, while also creating spaces for youth leaders and parents to connect with them outside the usual church or youth group setting.
These events don’t just stand alone, they’re woven into our diocesan vision of growing vibrant communities of faith. Each hangout helps rangatahi feel like they belong to something bigger. It’s also a great entry point for their friends from school. Many who come have never stepped foot in a church, but they'll turn up for a pool party or games night. It's a safe, easy place to experience Christian community.
Youth leaders are key to this kaupapa. These events are designed to support their work, not add pressure. By coming along and connecting with their young people in a fun, low-pressure setting, they strengthen relationships that feed directly back into their own local ministries. It’s one less event they have to organise, and one more way to support their discipleship journey.
We run Intermediate Hangs monthly in the Nelson area, usually on the first Sunday afternoon of the month. The next one is this weekend: Sunday 1 June, 2–4pm at the Richmond Aquatic Centre. It’s just $3 and includes an ice block. Parents are welcome to stay or drop off, and youth leaders, come join in and connect with your crew!
Check out other articles in the
series below.
More articles in the
series are to come.
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