Big Buddy News
Catching Up at Wero Whitewater Park
Recently, some of the boys from across Auckland who have graduated from our Group Programmes so far, came together for a great day out at Wero Whitewater Park. One of the things we want to do more of is create opportunities for boys to stay connected after their programme has finished. The friendships and support […]
After losing his dad at eight, Wahkan MacKinnon found hope through Big Buddy
Featured in New Zealand Woman’s Weekly, Wahkan Mackinnon’s story is a powerful example of the impact a mentor can have on a young person’s life. After losing his dad at just eight years old, Wahkan found guidance, friendship, and hope through Big Buddy. Read how the Group Programme helped shape his confidence, resilience, and future.
Why Big Buddy Needs More Men to Step Up
Big Buddy has been connecting boys without dads in their lives with positive male role models for nearly 30 years. But with waiting lists growing and demand exceeding available mentors, more men are urgently needed to step up. In a recent RNZ interview, Big Buddy Co-CEO Steve Sobota explains why simply showing up can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life.
Creating Lasting Change: Why the Big Toe Foundation Supports Big Buddy
Strong communities are built when young people have the support they need to thrive. Through its partnership with Big Buddy, the Big Toe Foundation is helping create lasting change by connecting boys without a dad in their lives to positive male mentors. Together, they are strengthening families, empowering young people, and fostering brighter futures across New Zealand.
Building Connections, One Brick at a Time
Our Big and Little Buddies recently spent a day with Brick Engaged, taking part in a range of LEGO® activities designed to encourage teamwork, communication, and connection. Check out the photo gallery from the day.
Auckland Group Programme (GP8)
Over eight weeks, a group of Auckland boys stepped outside their comfort zones, built meaningful friendships, and discovered new strengths through adventure-based activities, workshops, and a transformative camp experience. From challenging outdoor pursuits to opportunities for reflection and personal growth, the programme helped participants develop confidence, resilience, and stronger connections with themselves and others.
Wellington Group Programme GP7
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.
From First Match to Lifelong Mate: John and Cruz’s Big Buddy Journey
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.
Thank You Mark Talbot
After more than 15 years on the Big Buddy Mentoring Trust Board, Mark Talbot is stepping down as Trustee, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of leadership, service and advocacy. A former Big Buddy mentor himself, Mark has helped guide the organisation through years of growth.
Today, you can help to change a boy’s life forever.
By donating, you will help a boy whose dad is not around to find a man he can trust and look up to, a Big Buddy.
