Gig Buddies Auckland

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Gig Buddies Auckland

But for many people living with disability, going to a gig, watching live sport, or just meeting up with friends comes with additional challenges to overcome.

Gig Buddies Auckland is an initiative of Spectrum Care, a registered Not For Profit organization that supports people with disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives.

Going to live events is something many of us take for granted. Things like social isolation, inaccessibility of venues and transport, and lack of evening and late-night support options. Gig Buddies, funded by Spectrum Foundation and other supporting organizations, promotes greater social inclusion by matching people with disabilities with volunteers who share the same interests and passions. They attend live events together, giving people with disabilities and volunteers the opportunity to connect with new people, experience new things, and make new friends. In this way, Gig Buddies enables people with disabilities across the city to participate in after-dark activities, building lasting friendships with like-minded volunteers in the process.

07/10/2026

Another great night out for Gig Buddies! We got out to support some awesome local artists and experience the energy, creativity and passion that make Auckland’s music scene so special.

Supporting local artists isn’t just about having a good night — it’s about helping build the future of music. Every big artist had to start somewhere. Before the big stages, sold-out shows and international tours, they were playing small venues, local gigs and for audiences who believed in them.

So get out there, buy a ticket, grab some merch, share their music, and most importantly — show up. You never know when you might be watching the next big artist before they make it big.

At Gig Buddies, we love getting out into the community, discovering new music and supporting the incredible local talent right here in Aotearoa.

Support local. Keep live music alive.

07/09/2026

Going out dancing is something many of us might take for granted.

But after-dark social events aren’t always easy for everyone to access. Inspired by the awesome social events being created through Gig Buddies Auckland, Gopal, one of our Service Managers, had an idea: why not bring a taste of nightlife to the people we support through Aspirations?

Before long, our Onehunga community hub had been transformed into a Glow Party, complete with its very own Rave Cave. 🕺✨

Thanks to the mahi of our Community Development team, there was non-stop music, smoke machines, face paint, glow sticks, light shows and plenty of dancing.

People could bump shoulders on the dancefloor, let loose and move like no one was watching.

While not every idea our kaimahi try will be a hit, that doesn’t stop them from trying something else. They keep experimenting, adapting and giving people new things to experience.

And sometimes, they stumble upon something, like Glow Party, that becomes part of what it means to be supported by Spectrum.

07/08/2026

Everyone has something they're passionate about. Maybe it's going to concerts, watching live sport, exploring walking tracks, playing board games, grabbing coffee, or simply enjoying a good chat.

Now imagine sharing those experiences with someone who enjoys them just as much.

At Gig Buddies Auckland, we help adults who are neurodiverse connect with others through shared interests and social activities. The best part? You get to choose the activities you enjoy together.

Find out more here:

https://www.gigbuddiesauckland.org/

31/07/2026

Trying something new for the first time can feel a little daunting but with the right people by your side, those nerves can turn into confidence, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Our recent skateboarding session at SonSk8 Indoor Skatepark - Glen Innes was a perfect example of that. Whether it was stepping onto a board for the very first time or cheering each other on from the sidelines, everyone gave it a go—and had an awesome time doing it!

A huge shoutout to Wellness Riders for partnering with Auckland Gig Buddies and making this fantastic experience possible. We loved collaborating with you and can't wait to do it again!

Missed out this time? Don't worry! Keep an eye on Wellness Riders' page because we'll be back for another skateboarding session this August. We'd love to see even more buddies and volunteers come along and give it a try!

22/07/2026

Trying something new can be intimidating. Walking into an unfamiliar venue, learning a new sport, or not knowing what to expect can be enough to stop many people from giving it a go.

That's why shared experiences matter.

Recently, our Gig Buddies headed along to watch the NZ Pure Admirals take on the Dunedin Thunder in the New Zealand Ice Hockey League. None of us really knew what to expect—but by the final buzzer, we were cheering, celebrating, and leaving as brand-new Admirals fans!

The best part wasn't just the game, it was experiencing it together. Having friends by your side can turn uncertainty into excitement and create memories that last.

A huge thank you to the NZ Pure Admirals for a fantastic evening of fast-paced action and an unforgettable introduction to ice hockey.

🏒 Let's go, Admirals!

08/07/2026

As we celebrate Matariki, we take time to reflect on the journey we've shared, remember those who have been part of our story, celebrate where we are today, and look forward with hope to the future.

We're incredibly grateful for every buddy, volunteer, family member, and supporter who has been part of our community over the years. Whether you're still attending gigs with us or your journey has taken you in a different direction, thank you for sharing your time, laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories.

To our past buddies and volunteers, your contribution has helped shape Gig Buddies into the welcoming and inclusive community it is today. You'll always be a valued part of our story, and we hope our paths cross again at a future social event or community gathering.

To our current Gig Buddies whānau, thank you for continuing to make every event a place where everyone belongs.

As the stars of Matariki remind us to reflect, reconnect, and look ahead, we're excited for the adventures, friendships, and memories still to come.

From all of us at Gig Buddies, we wish you and your whānau a safe, joyful, and meaningful Matariki.

01/07/2026

Sometimes the hardest part of trying something new is taking that first step—or in this case, that first roll! At Gig Buddies, we love creating opportunities to step outside our comfort zones, meet new people, and have fun together. You don't need any experience to join in—just a willingness to give it a go.

That's why we're excited to be part of the next FREE Skate & Beats Adaptive Session at Sonsk8 Indoor Skatepark!

Whether it's your first time on a skateboard or you're keen to dust off your skills, this event is designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and supportive for people with disabilities, additional needs, neurodiversity, anxiety, or anyone who would benefit from a relaxed environment.

✨ Free adaptive skateboarding
🛹 Boards, helmets & safety gear provided
🎵 Live DJ & great vibes
🧸 Chill-out zone
💛 Support workers, whānau, volunteers & buddies welcome

📍 Sonsk8 Indoor Skatepark, Glen Innes
📅 Saturday 11 July
⏰ 10:00am–12:00pm

The event is completely free, but registration is required, so be sure to sign up before spots fill up!

Register here: www.wellnessriders.com

05/06/2026

MIDWEEK? MORE LIKE PEAK WEEK!

Earlier this week, a crew of Gig Buddies headed along to see the incredible UK rock duo Getdown Services along with the opening band DARTZ at Double Whammy Bar — and wow, did they bring the energy! From the moment they hit the stage, the crowd was hooked. It was the perfect midweek pick-me-up and honestly had us all wishing it was already the weekend!

This gig came together at very short notice, but that didn't stop some of our awesome buddies from jumping at the chance to be there.

A massive thank you to Kai from Gig Buddies Cymru for helping sort tickets for us — we really appreciated it and loved getting the opportunity to catch such a fun and unforgettable show. One of the things we love most about Gig Buddies is how the community supports each other across borders. From Wales to New Zealand, Gig Buddies connections help make amazing experiences happen, proving that a shared love of live music and friendship knows no distance.

Here's to more spontaneous adventures, loud music, and great company!

29/05/2026

What an incredible night at the Aotearoa Music Awards! 🎶✨

A huge thank you to Aotearoa Music Awards for providing tickets for our Gig Buddies group. Everyone had an amazing time and it was truly such a special experience for all of us.

Not only did we get to watch some absolute legends of the music industry perform live, but we also got to feel like we were part of the industry ourselves for the night. From the performances to the atmosphere, it was unforgettable.

One of the best parts was getting all dressed up and enjoying a glamorous night out together!

Thank you again for making this opportunity possible — memories like these mean so much to our buddies and volunteers alike.

14/05/2026

A huge THANK YOU to our amazing sponsors for generously providing free tickets for some of our Gig Buddies to experience the incredible Split Enz concert live last weekend!

For many of our buddies, opportunities like this mean so much more than just a night out — it’s about connection, confidence, friendship, and creating unforgettable memories together. Seeing everyone singing along, soaking up the atmosphere, and sharing the excitement was absolutely priceless.

“I really enjoyed the concert. The music and the special effects were great!”
-Finn, Gig Buddy

Moments like these are exactly what Gig Buddies is all about — making sure everyone has the chance to enjoy live events, build social connections, and be part of the community.

Thank you again to everyone who helped make this special night happen. Your support truly makes a difference!

Address

205 Great South Road, Greenlane
Auckland
0151

Website

https://www.gigbuddiesauckland.org/

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