The shutting down of a free health centre for Christchurch's youth resulted in a protest by hundreds.

They feel that it’s not right to deny sponsorship to 198 Health Centre, since several people depend on the 198 Health Centre.

Gayle Lauder says, "We need to be the loud voices for those who are vulnerable, marginalized and with have few resources".

Roughly 400 people joined the rally.

Lots of them were former or present patients and a few of them were bold enough to come up to reveal their stories.

For 15 years long, 198 has offered free GP and counseling services to 12 to 25 year olds. Nearly 7,000 people are seen and treated each year.

According to198, a change in the Government's funding system in 2009 has lead to this closure.

The Canterbury District Health Board grants them $400,000 per annum but they require $700,000 to keep going.

Meanwhile, the DHB said that there are other free mental and sexual health services available for youth and free GP services for those below 18, so it cannot grant more funds for 198 when finances are required somewhere else.