On Sunday, 3rd August, something special began in Tauranga – GP5. Our inaugural group of teenage boys set out on an 8-week journey designed to inspire, challenge, and transform.
The 11 rangatahi, aged between 14 and 17, were carefully nominated by their schools and caregivers — people who saw in them not just potential, but also a need for guidance, encouragement, and a positive male presence in their life.
Over the weeks ahead, these young men would be supported by three dedicated volunteer mentors, and facilitators, each committed to walking alongside them as they tackled a series of hands-on challenges and reflective experiences.
From outdoor adventures to team-building exercises and open conversations, every activity was crafted to strengthen relationships, build self-confidence, and nurture a sense of wellbeing.
Outdoor Challenges and New Skills
Over eight life-changing weeks, a group of teenage boys from Tauranga took part in the Big Buddy Tauranga Group Programme, a mentoring programme designed to build confidence, connection, and resilience. Facilitated by Aidan and Brad, with expert instruction from Sam and Liam at Adventure Works, the programme created a safe and exciting space where young men could challenge themselves, learn new skills, and form lasting friendships.
Mentors Who Helped Support the Boys
Big Buddy volunteer mentors Mark Hunter, Daniel Brinkley, and Isaiah McGoldrick supported the boys throughout the programme. Together, they helped the rangatahi take on new experiences, step out of their comfort zones, and discover their potential.
Adventures and Outdoor Challenges
The programme began with high ropes challenges at Tui Ridge Park in Rotorua, where the boys built teamwork and trust while navigating the course. They then took on mountain biking in the Redwoods Forest, a first off-road experience for most, filled with some trepidation for the adventure which was soon overtaken with a sense of accomplishment for the new experience.
At Otanewainuku Scenic Reserve, near Tauranga, they hiked through native bush and learned bushcraft skills, including knot tying, fire building, and crafting backpacks from tarps, sticks, and rope.
Camp Life and Outdoor Learning
The final camp at Waitawheta near Waihi was a multi-day adventure through the Karangahake Gorge:
- Day 1: 20km ride through the Gorge and camp set-up.
- Day 2: Trek along the Windows Walk and overnight stay at Dickey Flat, sheltered from wet weather.
- Day 3: Recovery, fun, and a soak at Athenree Hot Pools.
- Day 4: Camp pack-down and a homecoming hui.
Alongside adventure, downtime activities like rugby, soccer, and whittling allowed the boys to relax, be creative, and bond further.
“Watching the boys step up for each other — especially when things got tough — was the best part. You could see the confidence building week by week.” – Volunteer Mentor
Growth, Friendships and Confidence
The programme isn’t just about outdoor adventure — it’s about building meaningful connections.
“He’s started connecting with new people — building friendships and finding others to spend time with. I believe it’s especially valuable for him to have relationships with peers who understand his experience of not having a father present, without placing pressure on him to talk about it directly. Instead, he’s in an environment where he feels genuinely accepted and understood.”
Congratulations to all our Tauranga GP5 Graduates – Calen, Brayden, Tristan, Eli, Brody, Logan, Micha & Hung
Big Buddy Tauranga Group Programme – Participant Outcomes
Emotional Wellbeing
- More confident overcoming challenges: 87.5%
- Felt happier and more positive: 75%
Social Skills & Relationships
- Listen more attentively: 87.5%
- Understand others’ perspectives: 87.5%
- Work effectively in a group: 87.5%
Personal Growth & Support
- Develop new skills: 87.5%
- Engaging, relevant programme activities: 87.5%
- Felt supported by facilitators & mentors: 100%
- Felt a sense of belonging & connection: 87.5%
Overall Satisfaction
- Satisfied with the programme overall: 100%
Join the 2026 Tauranga Group Programme
If you know a teenage boy aged 14–17 in Tauranga who could benefit from group mentoring, adventure, and support from positive male role models, we’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch with the Big Buddy team to find out more about the 2026 Tauranga Group Programme intake and how to register. Together, we can help more boys grow into confident, grounded young men — one adventure at a time.
