Over eight weeks, the young men in Big Buddy’s ninth Group Programme stepped outside their comfort zones, built meaningful connections and discovered new strengths within themselves. Through a mix of outdoor adventure, personal reflection and honest kōrero, they explored what it means to take responsibility, support others and grow as young men.
Finding Our Foundations
In the programme’s opening week, the boys explored Ko Wai Au? – Who am I? They reflected on their connections to whenua, whānau, values, strengths and aspirations while getting to know one another through movement activities and group discussions. The week focused on building trust, establishing group expectations and creating a shared culture grounded in respect and accountability. Honest conversations around substance use, future choices and self-responsibility encouraged the boys to think about the direction they want their lives to take.
Surfing at Pāpāmoa East
In week two, the group headed to Pāpāmoa East for their first major outdoor challenge. Despite cold conditions, the boys showed resilience and determination, staying engaged and encouraging one another throughout the day. Surfing provided an opportunity to step outside comfort zones, build confidence and strengthen the sense of whanaungatanga that was beginning to develop within the group.
Understanding Emotions and Wellbeing
Week three focused on emotions, anger and the consequences that can flow from our reactions. Using Te Whare Tapa Whā as a framework, the boys explored how balance across physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing can support healthier choices and more positive outcomes. The discussions encouraged greater self-awareness and gave participants practical tools for managing challenges in their everyday lives.
Mountain Biking in Whakarewarewa Forest
The adventure continued in week four with a mountain biking excursion through Rotorua’s Whakarewarewa Forest. Alongside the excitement of tackling the trails, the boys learned about the forest’s whakapapa and native environment. The experience strengthened their connection to whenua while highlighting the relationship between physical activity, mental wellbeing and the natural world.
Roles, Responsibility and Teamwork
In week five, a marshmallow tower challenge became an unexpected lesson in leadership, planning and teamwork. As the boys worked together to solve problems and achieve a common goal, they reflected on the importance of individual roles and responsibilities. These lessons were linked back to Te Whare Tapa Whā, helping participants understand how their choices can create ripple effects across all areas of wellbeing.
Kayaking at McLaren Falls
Week six saw the group take to the water at McLaren Falls. For many of the boys, kayaking was a programme highlight, combining adventure, challenge and fun in a spectacular natural setting. The day provided an opportunity to connect with one another outside the usual programme environment while continuing to build confidence through shared experiences.
Sharing Life Stories
As the programme approached its final stage in week seven, the boys came together to share their life maps. Food, humour and a friendly quiz helped create a relaxed atmosphere where participants felt comfortable opening up about their journeys, challenges and aspirations. The honest stories shared during the session deepened trust within the group and helped prepare everyone for the final camp experience.
Camp at Lake Ōkataina
The programme culminated in week eight with a camp at Lake Ōkataina, bringing together everything the boys had learned throughout the journey. Through shelter building, kayaking, navigation challenges and shared camp responsibilities, participants were encouraged to work together, solve problems and step into leadership roles. Time around the campfire created space for reflection, meaningful kōrero and stronger connections.
Across eight weeks, the boys were challenged physically, emotionally and socially, with each experience building on the last and helping prepare them for the journey’s final challenge. Like any growth journey, there were moments when boundaries were tested. But time and again, they rose to the occasion, embracing new experiences and supporting one another along the way.
Looking Back
From their first introductions to their final campfire conversations, the boys in Group Programme 9 demonstrated courage, growth and a willingness to support each other. By the end of the programme, they had developed greater confidence, stronger relationships, improved resilience and a deeper understanding of themselves.
Group Programme 9 was about far more than outdoor adventures. It was about creating a safe and supportive environment where young men could learn, connect, challenge themselves and discover what they’re capable of achieving.
“Growth doesn’t happen all at once. It happens through every challenge faced, every conversation shared and every step taken together.” 💙
