80,000 steps for $80,000

Raising $80,000 for Te Kiwi Maia has been on my mind for a while. Te Kiwi Maia which stands for the Courageous Kiwi stands at the heart of Aotearoa’s commitment to those who put themselves on the line for us every day. Their mission is simple but powerful: to provide rehabilitation, recovery, and respite to the first responders and defence personnel who safeguard and care for New Zealanders. These are people who are so often the first to step forward in moments of crisis, yet the last to ask for help themselves.

As a frontline Ambulance Officer myself, I felt compelled to support Te Kiwi Maia because their work addresses a need that is too often unseen. Behind every emergency call, every rescue, and every act of service, there are real individuals who may carry physical or psychological injuries long after the moment has passed. Te Kiwi Maia gives them a place to heal—supporting not only the individuals who serve, but also their whānau, ensuring they can continue to live healthy, positive lives.

The journey to raise $80,000 will inspire me to get off the couch.

Supporting Te Kiwi Maia is more than a charitable gesture—it is an expression of gratitude to the brave men and women, whom I'm proud to call my colleagues; my brothers and sisters; who uphold the safety and wellbeing of our nation. I am proud to play a part in helping them continue their essential mission, and deeply thankful to everyone who can contribute to this kaupapa.