MATES in Construction New Zealand

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MATES in Construction NZ has been set up to reduce the high level of su***de in Construction.

06/10/2026

Great people create great workplaces, and the team at Hawkins Hamilton Central Office has given us all something to celebrate.

Yesterday, the office officially achieved MATES Accreditation, becoming the first Hawkins regional office to reach this milestone since 2023 and the first North Island office to do so.

A special shout out to Greg, whose passion for MATES has been instrumental in making this happen. After completing his Connector and ASIST training, Greg recognised an opportunity to bring the benefits of MATES beyond construction sites and into office environments. His commitment, enthusiasm and leadership helped turn that vision into reality.

MATES Accreditation reflects a workplace's commitment to mental health, su***de prevention and ensuring workers know how to support one another when it matters most.

22/09/2026

A few kilometres can make a big difference.

As Jordan made a brief stop in Auckland on his journey from Cape Reinga to Wellington, several MATES team members joined him for part of the walk, showing their support for the incredible challenge he's taken on to raise funds and awareness for mental health and su***de prevention.

While it was only a small part of Jordan's 1,300km journey, it was a powerful reminder of what this fundraiser is all about: connection, conversation, and backing a cause that supports people across New Zealand's construction industry.

Every donation helps MATES in Construction continue providing vital support, training, and resources to workers, workplaces, and whānau across Aotearoa.

If you've been following Jordan's journey, now is a great time to show your support. Donate to the fundraiser, share his story, and help him reach his goal.

Every kilometre starts a conversation. Every donation helps keep it going.

https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/cape-to-capital-pushing-a-wheelbarrow-1300km

20/09/2026

MATES IGNITING HOPE

There couldn't be a more fitting time to recognise this achievement. Fly the Flag Week is a powerful reminder that su***de prevention is everyone's responsibility, and this accreditation demonstrates Naylor Love's commitment to turning that message into action. Through trained Connectors, access to ASIST support, and a workforce equipped to look out for one another, the B230 UoA team has helped create a site culture where conversations are encouraged, support is visible, and no one has to face tough times alone.

Accreditation strengthens the bonds that make sites safer, healthier, and more connected, with a positive impact that extends beyond the project and into families, communities, and the wider construction industry.

Congratulations to everyone involved in achieving this significant milestone and helping build a culture where mates look after mates.

15/09/2026

Once a Mate, always a Mate!

Next week, Sept 22-25, Matt Jardiolin will take part in the Lads Without Labels’ Run72 event.

You might recognise Matt from his time as a MATES Field Officer in Christchurch. Matt will be running three half-marathons in three days, raising awareness for Mental Health and raising funds for MATES.

We caught up with Matt ahead of this epic challenge:

“Movement is my escape from my everyday stressors.”

“Run72 will be a physical challenge, but the challenges people face internally far outweigh what lies ahead for me.”

“If this can help create awareness, open up conversations, and remind people who are struggling that they can reach out for support and don’t have to face it alone, then it can make a meaningful difference.”

You can support Matt’s fundraising efforts here: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/mates-in-construction-1

12/09/2026

Thank you, Aotearoa, for Flying the Flag 🚩

As Fly the Flag 2026 comes to a close, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who raised a flag, started a conversation, shared a story, hosted an event, or checked in on a mate. Together, you've helped make this campaign a powerful reminder that hope starts with connection.

A special thank you to our industry, whose commitment to mental health continues to drive change across worksites, offices, and communities throughout New Zealand. By standing together and prioritising mental wellbeing, you're helping create an industry where it's okay to speak up, ask for help, and support one another.

To our incredible MATES Connectors, ASIST volunteers, Champions, and supporters: thank you. Your willingness to listen, start difficult conversations, and be there when it matters most is changing lives every day. Fly the Flag is a celebration of the work you do year-round to strengthen our industry and help a mate.

This year's theme, Be the Voice of Hope, reminded us that hope doesn't have to be a grand gesture. It can be a check-in at smoko, a toolbox talk, a conversation with a mate, or simply being there when someone needs support.

Thank you for flying the flag with us.

09/09/2026

Every conversation.

No matter how big or small.

Contributes to a more supportive and understanding society.

_____

Today, September 10th, is World Su***de Prevention Day.

Together, we:

Start the conversation.
Listen with empathy.
Make support part of everyday life.
Turn conversations into action.

05/09/2026

Tomorrow, we fly the flag again for mental health and well-being in construction. While we do this every day, Fly the Flag week is a special one for us all as we unite to celebrate the work we do together and acknowledge there is still mahi to do.

Here's a small glimpse into what we got up to in 2025.

That concludes our Fly the Flag Through the Years series. We'll see you out there, starting tomorrow.

04/09/2026

Great to get out on site in Timaru this week for a Tradie BBQ Breakfast hosted by our Partners NZ Safety Blackwoods and Milwaukee.

Events like these are about more than just a good feed. They create opportunities to connect, check in with one another, and have the conversations that help keep our industry strong.

At MATES, we know that wellbeing starts with connection, and it's always encouraging to see how great food and genuine conversations can bring people together.

03/09/2026

NEW PARTNER | MATES welcomes Citycare Water as a Premium Partner.

Citycare Water and Apex Water are leading providers of water infrastructure services across New Zealand, delivering essential water, wastewater, and stormwater services that help keep communities healthy, safe, and connected.

Ian Gill, Head of Health & Safety at Citycare Water, said:
"Partnering with MATES aligns closely with our commitment to creating safe, healthy, and connected workplaces for everyone."

" The wellbeing of our people is a key priority. Over the past year, we have worked with teams across New Zealand to better understand the factors that contribute to a mentally healthy workplace and identify opportunities to strengthen our wellbeing culture."

"Through this partnership, we want to provide our people with practical tools, greater awareness, and stronger peer support networks, while continuing to foster a workplace where people look out for one another and feel comfortable seeking support when they need it."

The partnership recently kicked off with MATES General Awareness Training sessions at the Whitianga, Whangamatā, Thames, New Plymouth and Timaru depots. We look forward to continuing this journey and bringing the programme to more CityCare Water teams across New Zealand.

02/09/2026

A great morning (so far) at Constructive 2026 - Master Builders

We'll be here for the next couple of days. Come say hi to the team.

Address

Level 1, 7a McNab Street
Penrose
1061

Telephone

+6493020535

Website

http://www.mates.net.nz/

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