As we reflect on the year gone by, one highlight stands out in the journey of ReVision and our commitment to creating youth-friendly spaces through audits. This February, we embarked on a remarkable project at Te Kaha, a cutting-edge stadium in Christchurch, New Zealand. The success of this venture not only demonstrated the organisation's dedication to empowering youth but also showcased the positive impact that collaborative efforts can have on community spaces.
Setting the Stage: Te Kaha Stadium
Te Kaha Stadium, managed by Venues ÅŒtautahi, is a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Christchurch and one of the last precincts to be built post-earthquake. Even though the stadium was still under construction, ReVision seized the opportunity to conduct a youth-friendly space audit based on the architectural plans. This forward-thinking approach aimed to ensure that the stadium would not only meet the physical requirements but also cater to the diverse needs and preferences of a younger generation.
The youth auditors were excited about having a world-class stadium in their city that would be able to host a wide range of events and attract international acts. They noted, however, that significant improvements are needed to ensure that Te Kaha is well equipped to meet the needs of both young people and the wider community. Young people's main concerns were over transport infrastructure, overall atmosphere, and the perception that the Canterbury community have of Te Kaha.
The Audit Process
ReVision's audit process is rooted in inclusivity and community involvement. Armed with a team of passionate individuals, the organisation meticulously examined the plans for Te Kaha Stadium, considering elements such as accessibility, aesthetics, and amenities that would contribute to a welcoming environment for young people. The audit provided a comprehensive overview of how the space could be optimised to foster youth engagement.
The audit engaged eight diverse auditors ranging in age from sixteen to twenty-four. These auditors were carefully selected based on their background and interest in the space to ensure that a broad range of views would be captured. Normally two audits are completed to capture the youth-friendliness of the space at different times, such as during the day and night or when the space is busy and quiet. As Te Kaha was still in the planning stage when this audit was undertaken, only one audit session was conducted.
Collaboration with Venues ÅŒtautahi and Impactful Recommendations
What makes this opportunity truly remarkable is the responsiveness of Venues ÅŒtautahi to the recommendations put forth by ReVision. In August, several months after the initial audit, the organisation received communication from the stadium's management expressing their appreciation for the insights provided. It was revealed that the recommendations made by ReVision had been taken seriously during the stadium's design phase.
The success of the Te Kaha Stadium audit lies in the tangible changes that were implemented based on ReVision's recommendations. These changes included improvements to transportation infrastructure, incorporation of innovative spaces at Te Kaha, and adjustments to offerings to create a more inclusive and youth-friendly atmosphere. Venues ÅŒtautahi's commitment to prioritising youth engagement became evident through their proactive response to the audit findings.
ReVision's audit at Te Kaha Stadium stands as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in shaping community spaces. The successful incorporation of youth-friendly recommendations into the stadium's design exemplifies the impact that proactive organisations can have on creating inclusive environments for all. As we look ahead, this highlight serves as inspiration for ReVision and other organisations striving to make a positive difference in the lives of young people, one space at a time.
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