Author(s): Colin Taylor

Auckland | Secondhand | NZ Business & Company History | NZ Social & Cultural History

The history of YMCA Auckland mirrors the history of Auckland itself. Established in 1855, New Zealand's first YMCA set out to fulfil the objective of supporting young working men in following a Christian path through life. In 2005, the YMCA is a very different organisation. While the goal of nourishing the development of mind, body and spirit among its members has not changed, the society in which the organisation now operates demands different facilities, a largely secular mission, and openness to all ages, genders and creeds. Body, Mind, Spirit tells the story of the YMCA's 150 years in Auckland in a lively way, picking liberally from the archives of photographs and memorabilia accumulated throughout the years. It is a stirring history of an organisation that grew from limited financial resources to become a major force for good in the community, operating boys' camps, supporting troops during both world wars, responding to demand for sporting facilities, spearheading the boom in jogging, and providing resources for the demands of the new millennium.