About Big Buddy

About Big Buddy

Big Buddy makes a positive difference to boys without a dad in their lives. We match boys with a Big Buddy who, quite simply, shows up, spends time and comes back.

What is Big Buddy?

Big Buddy is all about building confidence and resilience in the lives of boys whose father is not around. We do this by matching volunteers, good guys from the community with boys aged between 7 and 14 years. They simply spend time together, a few hours a week. The Big Buddy relationship offers friendship, support and a good male role model to look up to.

Together our Buddies enjoy the simple things in life - walking the dog, throwing a ball around, spending time together. This regular contact and genuine interest in a  Little Buddy’s life provides a real anchor for him as he grows up.

Big Buddy makes real a difference

Over 1000 Little Buddies have been matched with Big Buddies since 1997. And we have seen the positive difference that Big Buddies have on the lives of the boys they are matched with. It's not just that they get to do more ‘blokey things’, the Little Buddy's confidence grows, they smile more and become happier. Mums and caregivers describe the difference as simple but profound: 

“My son has a Big Buddy and I couldn't speak more highly of  this organization. They are making real differences in the lives  of so many young boys. I adore the happiness and confidence  that our Big Buddy brings to my son.”  Lianne, Little Buddy mum 

“I reckon John will be in my life  until I die. He is my mate and I  actually feel like I have a Dad.” Andre, Little Buddy of John

How Big Buddy Operates.

Big Buddy offers its services in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga and the Wellington regions with plans to expand in the future. 

The safety and happiness of our Little Buddies is paramount. Therefore our Big Buddy Selection Process is known to be the most discerning of any agency or club in New Zealand. 

Big Buddy is governed by the Big Buddy Mentoring Trust, comprised of four trustees. Our organisation is also supported by the fundraising efforts of the Big Buddy Foundation: members include Chair Mark Talbot, Jeff Meltzer, Grant Fox, Travis Field, and Rachel Calcinai.

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What's the next step?

Are you a mum or carer looking for a Big Buddy for your boy? Are you a man who is interested in becoming a Big Buddy? Find out more right here.

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