Over eight weeks, a group of Wellington boys challenged themselves through rock climbing, whitewater rafting, bushcraft, workshops, and a Matariki camp experience. Along the way they built confidence, resilience, stronger connections, and valuable life skills, culminating in a powerful Homecoming Hui with their whānau and mentors.
Wellington Group Programme GP7 Read More »
What began as a Big Buddy match more than a decade ago has grown into a lifelong friendship. John and Cruz’s story show the lasting impact of mentoring, from childhood guidance and support to shared milestones, family connections, and a bond that continues to shape both their lives today.
From First Match to Lifelong Mate: John and Cruz’s Big Buddy Journey Read More »
As conversations about masculinity and online influence continue to dominate headlines, Big Buddy Programme Lead Shane Brown joined RNZ’s Jesse Mulligan to discuss the growing need for positive male role models. In this insightful interview, Shane shares how consistent mentoring relationships help boys build confidence, connection and resilience, while offering a healthy alternative to the harmful messages many young men encounter online.
Showing Up Matters: How Big Buddy Gives Boys a Positive Alternative Read More »
What if improving your wellbeing was as simple as showing up for someone else?
For Big Buddies, mentoring boys isn’t just about making a difference — it’s about getting outside, staying active, and reconnecting with what matters most.
Why Being a Big Buddy Gets You Moving — and Why That Matters Read More »
Growing up with a strong father figure shaped brothers Tapan and Donny Mukerji in ways they only fully appreciated later in life. Today, both volunteer as Big Buddy mentors, giving boys without active fathers the friendship, guidance and consistency that helped shape their own childhoods. Their story is a powerful reminder that changing a young person’s life doesn’t require extraordinary acts—sometimes it simply starts with showing up.
What Their Father Gave Them, Tapan and Donny Mukerji Are Passing On Read More »
When Mary* took in two toddler boys after losing her own mother, she stepped into a journey she could never have imagined. Now in her 70s, she’s spent over a decade raising them through challenges, heartbreak, and growth — but for years, something was missing. “There were no men in their world,” she says. That changed when Big Buddy entered their lives — and everything shifted.
They’ve Shown Them What Being a Good Man Looks Like Read More »
Fantail & Turtle hosted another memorable fundraising lunch in May 2026, bringing people together to support Big Buddy’s mission of mentoring boys across New Zealand.
Fantail & Turtle Hosts Another Memorable Fundraising Lunch Read More »
A simple conversation between mentors led to a memorable Big Buddy fishing day out, giving boys and volunteers the chance to connect, learn, and enjoy time on the water together.
A Fishing Day Out for Big and Little Buddies Read More »
Shane and Isaac’s mentoring journey began years ago, built on simple moments, shared time and a steady commitment to showing up. This story was first shared in the past, but its impact — and its heart — remain just as strong today.
Years On The Impact Still Matters : Shane and Isaac Read More »
Our Hamilton and Tauranga Big Buddy whānau came together for a special Day Out at Lake Karapiro, enjoying kayaking, games, and a relaxed BBQ. It was a simple but powerful day of connection, outdoor fun, and quality time that highlights the impact of mentoring boys across New Zealand.
Big Buddy Day Out – Hamilton & Tauranga 2026 Read More »
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