One-To-One Mentoring (Boys 7 - 13)
Since 1997, Big Buddy has supported over 1,200 boys across Aotearoa who are growing up without their dad or a consistent male role model in their lives. Our mentors - 'Big Buddies' are everyday men who volunteer their time to build a long-term, positive relationship with a Little Buddy aged 7 to 13.
Why Boys Need Mentors
Right now, thousands of boys in New Zealand live with little or no contact with their father. This can have a deep impact on a boy’s sense of self, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.
We know mums, grandmothers and other caregivers do a great job — but sometimes a boy needs a good man in his life. Someone steady, encouraging, and reliable. That’s what Big Buddy provides: a positive male role model who shows up, listens, and cares.
Our mentoring programme requires a minimum 12-month commitment, with mentors typically spending 2-4 hours per week with their Little Buddy. This consistent mentoring approach ensures that volunteering creates meaningful, lasting relationships that benefit both the Big and Little Buddy.
Mentoring: Good For Them. Great For You Too!
How to Become A Mentoring Volunteer with Big Buddy
Apply to mentor
Start your mentoring journey by filling out our secure application form. We will then get in contact with you
Interview & Selection
We'll connect for an interview and conduct thorough checks for a safe mentoring environment.
Matching Process
Once approved, we carefully match you with a boy to begin your impactful mentoring relationship.
Ongoing Support
Receive continuous support, training, and guidance from our team throughout your mentoring role.
What Our Big Buddy Mentors Say
"Volunteering as a mentor with Big Buddy has been the most rewarding experience of my life. Watching my Little Buddy grow from a shy 8-year-old to a confident young man has shown me the true power of mentoring. Our mentorship has taught me as much as I've taught him – that's the beauty of this volunteering programme."
Mark, Big Buddy Mentor for 3 years
"Maybe he's supposed to gain knowledge from me, but I've learned so much more from this 13-year-old than I could possibly have given him. I'm a lucky man"
Big Buddy Ed on his Little Buddy Marshal
"You come into this programme expecting to give to others, but little do you realise just how much you get back".
Eugene, Big Buddy, Auckland
What It Means To Be A Big Buddy
Being a Big Buddy isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present. You’ll spend regular time with your Little Buddy — maybe going for a walk, kicking a ball, doing a project together, or just having a yarn. It’s the consistency and connection that matters most. Our mentors come from all walks of life. What they share is a willingness to share a little time to make a big difference.
We match each volunteer mentor with care, we guide you through the process, and then offer ongoing support throughout your journey.
The impact is beyond a boy
Mentoring boys without dads creates ripples that reach well beyond the Big Buddy relationship. Research shows that boys with mentors are more likely to succeed in school, develop healthy relationships, and make positive life choices. By volunteering as a mentor with Big Buddy, you're not just giving your time – you're investing in a boy's future and making a difference that will ripple through generations. Many Big Buddies say the experience has been just as meaningful for them
85 % of Little Buddies show Improved confidence and self-esteem through mentoring
78 % of Little Buddies demonstrate better academic performance after 12 months of mentorship
92% of Mentors report that volunteering with Big Buddy has positively impacted their own lives
95% of mentoring relationships continue beyond the minimum 12 month commitment period
What's Next?
Take the first step towards becoming
a One-to-One Volunteer Mentor... a Big Buddy
Please fill out your details below and we'll be in touch with you to discuss your enquiry.
Areas we cover in our 4 regions:
Auckland - Orewa in the north to Papakura in the south, Kumeu in the west to Howick in the east.
Hamilton - Hamilton City to Cambridge and the area in between these towns.
Tauranga - Omokoroa in the north to Te Puke in the south, Tauriko and Pyes Pa in the west.
Wellington - Waikanae in the north to Wellington City in the south & Lower Hutt and Upper Hutt in the east.
