Youngsters get AMP'd at Manukau parks

Being Manukau born and bred means I've got a vested interest in our city and I also want my kids to enjoy growing up in a vibrant, active community.

Luckily plenty of bold, fresh initiatives taking place right now are having a positive impact on our people and our city.

One good example is the free sport and recreation programme for youth in Manukau parks called AMP'd.

Just the other day, I went to the official launch of AMP'd at David Lange Park in Mangere and spent the afternoon hanging out with young people, playing touch, tag, a bit of volleyball and listening to their DJ's live mix.

AMP'd was trialled in Manurewa earlier this year - you might remember me talking about it when the pilot programme was introduced.

Because of its awesome popularity it's been rolled out for the first time across Otara, Papatoetoe and Mangere in addition to Manu-rewa.

AMP'd is free, it's fun and it's catching on big time. The AMP'd crew rock up to local south Auckland parks after school and get our taitamariki involved with games, impromptu sports competitions and any other physical activities that teenagers are into.

When I was there "shuffling" - a type of dance that I have no chance with! - and skateboarding were also on the go.

I love seeing programmes like this in action because it's a reminder of the energy and vibe that's uniquely Manukau. And I'm not just referring to programmes for young people either. There are heaps of things going for adults and older adults too.

You only have to drop by your local recreation centre to see all of the group fitness and aerobics options available.

Green Prescription and never2old are a couple of progressive initiatives that spring to mind. Green Prescription helps the inactive turn things around and never2old keeps over 60s active and lively.

You might have also seen that I've recently been supporting the White Ribbon campaign to end family violence and encourage men to help put a stop to violence against women.

Like the AMP'd programme I'm passionate about White Ribbon because it's another initiative that combats antisocial elements in our society and is doing something real and positive.

I think it's fundamental that physical activity provides a positive, stimulating, fun and rewarding focus. It has even been proven to have impact on our mental health with studies showing people who exercise regularly show less depression, anger and confusion and are less tense.

So what more encouragement do you need? Get out there, get involved with all the great stuff Manukau has to offer and get active.

- © Fairfax NZ News