Marlborough Multicultural Centre
Our Yoga, Pilates, Zumba and Aqua Aerobics classes welcome many more people each term than we could fit into a single survey. This term, we asked participants what the programme means to them - and 72 of you took the time to respond. What you told us is humbling, and we wanted to share the highlights.
A programme our community loves
96% of respondents told us they will attend again next term. Our Net Promoter Score - a standard measure of how strongly people would recommend a service - came in at 88.9, an exceptional result for any community programme. Nearly half of respondents (47%) attend two or more classes each week, and 42% have been coming for more than four terms.
Behind those numbers is something more meaningful.
Stronger bodies, calmer minds
Participants described real change. 83% said their flexibility or mobility had improved. 78% reported gains in strength or fitness. 85% said their mood had lifted, and 74% said the programme had reduced their stress or anxiety.
For many, that combination of physical and emotional benefit is exactly why they keep coming back.
“Time for myself. I get home feeling positive and more relaxed.”
A deeper sense of belonging
Perhaps the most important finding: 87% of respondents said the programme has helped them feel more like they belong in Marlborough. That is a direct contribution to MMC's core mission, not just a fitness outcome.
For migrants, refugees and newcomers, this sense of belonging matters most.
“Moving to a foreign country can feel quite isolating. Having somewhere to go and be with people who’ve had similar experiences is really special.”
“I loved being able to take my new friend along who had just arrived as a refugee from another non-English-speaking country. It was a friendly environment and she could participate without much English.”
67% of participants told us the programme has connected them with people from other cultures, and 51% have made new friends through the classes.
A front door to MMC
The survey also showed the programme is doing more than we might have expected. 68% of respondents said they had either discovered other MMC programmes through their fitness class, or been personally connected to MMC services by a fellow participant. For many, a Yoga mat or a Pilates class is where their wider relationship with MMC begins.
Our instructors are our strength
Across every class, one theme came through with real warmth. Nadine, Christie, Randy and the wider team were named again and again for the patience, encouragement and skill they bring to each session. Participants described classes that welcome everybody, at every ability level.
“Nadine the Pilates teacher always gives options on each exercise for different levels of strength and ability, which is great if you struggle to do some things - she is an amazing teacher.”
“Christie is a wonderful yoga teacher, she is a big part of why the program helped me.”
We are enormously grateful for their mahi.
Access matters
Several participants made a point of thanking us for keeping the programme affordable.
“On a very limited income I can afford and take part. Thank you so much.”
“The low cost to attend. Thank you for removing this barrier. Over the years any extra money has gone towards the children and home.”
Removing cost as a barrier is central to why this programme exists, and we intend to keep it that way.
What we heard about doing better
Participants also gave us honest, constructive feedback. The clearest message: our 5pm class start times are difficult for people finishing work at 5. Many suggested a 5:15pm or 5:30pm start would make a real difference. Pilates is now regularly full, with several people asking for a second class each week.
We hear you. Over the coming months we will be reviewing class times and looking at how we can add capacity where demand is greatest.
Ngā mihi nui
To every participant, instructor and volunteer who makes this programme what it is - thank you. The Health and Fitness Programme is one part of MMC's wider work, but this survey shows just how much it means to the people who take part. We are proud to keep this space open, welcoming and available to anyone in our community who wants to join.
Interested in joining a class? Yoga, Pilates, Zumba and Aqua Aerobics all run weekly at low, subsidised rates. Get in touch on 03 579 6410 or manager@mmc.nz.
MANY CULTURES. ONE HOME.
