Big Buddy News
Kalv and Rex’s Big Buddy Story – How Mentoring Changes Two Lives
When Kalv became a Big Buddy, he wanted to give back. What he didn’t expect was how much he’d gain in return. Through years of friendship, learning, and shared experiences, both Kalv and his Little Buddy, Rex, have grown together.
His message to anyone thinking about mentoring? Don’t wait for the perfect time. The perfect time is now.
What Outward Bound Taught Me About Showing Up
Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. Christie Stuart shares how a week at Outward Bound deepened her appreciation for the boys and mentors in Big Buddy’s Group Programme.
Big Buddy Car Scavenger Hunt Brings Adventure, Teamwork and Fun
Our Big Buddies and Little Buddies hit the road for a scavenger hunt across the Hutt Valley, tackling 45 challenges, strengthening friendships, and sharing plenty of laughs along the way.
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.
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.
