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Strength in the Community: NZCT Powers Up Wesley Community Action in Wellington

“It’s an opportunity to train for free because a lot of whānau in our community can’t afford to go to gyms. I remind them about the importance of staying at school, of keeping on learning, of looking after their mum and dad and helping with the chores, and of being kind and looking after the community. Once you set these kind of taonga, these jewels, with them they really take it on board. I know the fitness path is good for them, but the wraparound support is also really important.”
Personal trainer, Dean Wilson-Karu

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded a grant of $3,495 to Wesley Community Action to purchase a squat rack, adjustable seat, dumb-bells, kettlebells, and two air bikes for their community gym in Miramar, helping local rangatahi and whānau access free fitness and kickboxing sessions that support their physical and mental wellbeing.

General Manager Andrea McKenzie says, “We offer weekly fitness sessions and kickboxing classes where people can stay connected with our community and youth workers, who provide wrap-around support with any wider issues they may be facing. Our gym is a safe and welcoming space where whānau and rangatahi can build confidence, resilience, and wellbeing.”

The gym sessions, run by former kickboxing champion and personal trainer Dean Wilson-Karu, cater to rangatahi aged 12–17 and adults. Dean opens each session with karakia and a short sharing about each other’s mauri, combining fitness training with mentoring and support in areas such as education, housing, employment, and driver licensing. The classes provide structure and discipline while fostering confidence, resilience, and overall wellbeing - particularly for people who don’t feel comfortable in mainstream gyms or can’t afford gym fees.

Personal trainer, Dean Wilson-Karu, says, “It’s an opportunity to train for free because a lot of whānau in our community can’t afford to go to gyms. I remind them about the importance of staying at school, of keeping on learning, of looking after their mum and dad and helping with the chores, and of being kind and looking after the community. Once you set these kind of taonga, these jewels, with them they really take it on board. I know the fitness path is good for them, but the wraparound support is also really important.”

NZCT’s GM of Grants, Marketing and Communications, Ben Hodges, says “We’re proud to back programmes that give people the chance to get active, build confidence, and connect with their community. NZCT can fund this community good thanks to the fundraising partnerships we share with local hospitality venues via their responsible gaming lounges.”