Our CO-WORKING Initiative

A Space to Belong. A Place to Grow.

Many neurodivergent young people are incredibly talented, driven, and capable of working independently on creative or self-directed projects that have real potential to lead to paid work.

But too often, they’re doing it alone—in their bedrooms, without connection, community, or support.

The Hyphen Project’s CO-WORKING Initiative changes that.

It’s a welcoming, inclusive environment where neurodivergent young people can feel a sense of belonging, connect with others, and be part of something bigger. It’s a reason to get out of the house—and a place where ideas, motivation, and opportunities can thrive, with just the right amount of support along the way.

Key information

  • WHAT

    A welcoming neurodivergent and youth-friendly workspace where there is company, inspiration, encouragement and support.

  • WHO

    For talented, neurodivergent 16-19 year olds who have a plan and work well independently - they just need a welcoming place to get to it.

  • WHERE

    Our site is in Newmarket, Auckland - close to public transport hubs, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the Domain and urban activity.

  • WHEN

    Our CO-WORKING space is open 10am-4pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Sign up anytime - 12 week membership minimum.

BENEFITS

  • Daily check-ins from our multi-talented and supportive team

  • Access to fortnightly events specifically for co-workers, such as workshops, presentations, social activities

  • Opportunity to book a 1/2 hour coaching slot each fortnight

  • Connections with other like-minded teens

  • A relaxed workspace - access to kitchen, wifi, different kinds of work stations

  • Keep up to date with information about opportunities in relation to their interest area

  • Get fresh ideas and feedback in relation to their work from our team, peers and visiting experts

FAQS

What are the costs involved?

Fees per rangatahi are $250 per week. Minimum membership period is 12 weeks. A 5% discount is applied to up-front payments. Payments can be made weekly, fortnightly, or 4-weekly.

I’m not sure if my teen is gifted or talented?

Many gifted and talented young people in New Zealand have not been identified as gifted and talented. By talking with you about their history, by talking with them, and by finding out more about their interests and how they spend their time, we’ll be able to get a clear picture of whether The Hyphen Project environment is a good fit for them or not.

Our family can’t afford the costs but need your help - what can we do?

We’d still love to hear from you so we have a good understanding of your situation.

I’m not sure if my teen is neurodivergent?

Many autistic people or people with ADHD or dyslexia in New Zealand do not have a diagnosis. This is particularly the case if they are intellectually able as well because they are able to scrape by academically through drawing on their strengths. They might be described as highly anxious or sensitive. We do not require a formal diagnosis for participation in our programmes.