A Tauranga men’s mental health charity is working to empower men to feel more confident and be more open.

Men Making Miles, Nga Tane Hanga Maero co-founder Duncan Woonton said phrases like “harden up, bro” were beliefs of the past, and he wanted to support men through open and honest communication.

Woonton and fellow co-founder Eru Piwari know firsthand what it means to face mental health challenges.

“We’ve both been through our own struggles, navigating the isolation, the pressure, and the silence that so often surrounds men’s mental wellbeing,” said Woonton.

“It wasn’t easy. But through those tough times, we found strength, self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of what so many others are going through.

“Our past experiences don’t define us – they empower us. And now, we use that lived experience to help guide others through their own journeys.”

By using the Māori model of holistic wellbeing, Te Whare Tapa Whā, the charity supported men to grow in mind, body and spirit to create a cultural shift for a healthier and stronger future for men in New Zealand.

A Men Making Miles sharing circle.

Woonton said the classes focused on three of the four key elements of Te Whare Tapa Whā Taha Hinengaro – mental and emotional wellbeing, Taha Whānau – strengthening family and social connections, and Taha Wairua – exploring spiritual wellbeing and purpose.

The idea of Te Whare Tapa Whā was that each element would refer to an important structural element of a whare, and without focusing on all elements, the whare would fall.

At Men Making Miles, their free support services blend physical activity, open group chats, and emotional support to help men reconnect with themselves, their whanua, and each other.

“We create a space where men can speak honestly, support their mates, and become better fathers, better partners and better people,” said Woonton.

At the beginning of each class, they would start with an open chat circle designed to create a safe, welcoming space where men feel encouraged to speak openly about their mental health.

Woonton said the classes aimed to challenge outdated social norms.

A Men Making Miles group shares a snap after a class.

“This is more than just a support group; it’s a movement for better men.

“Men are telling us that, through our support groups, they’re becoming better fathers, stronger partners, and more confident in reaching out when they need help.

“We’re seeing men lose weight, overcome addiction, and build healthier lifestyles-physically, mentally, and emotionally.

“Most importantly, they’re breaking through the silence and stigma that has held so many back.”

He said these conversations were a powerful first step in breaking down the stigma around men’s emotional well-being.

The second stage of the free men’s mental health classes brought focus to Taha Tihana (physical health) through engaging movement and group-based physical activity like martial arts.

“Led by professional trainers, this stage includes martial arts, group fitness, and other fun, active sessions that help build camaraderie, trust, self-belief, and motivation.

“It’s not just about getting fit – it’s about connecting with others, pushing personal limits, and experiencing the strength that comes from team support.”

Men Making Miles also focuses on physical health and fitness.

Men Making Miles has a future youth development plan too, which involves teaming up with local schools across the Bay of Plenty to help young men struggling in the education system.

“Through open conversations, peer support, and physical activity, we’re creating safe, relatable spaces that build resilience, boost mental wellbeing, and empower young men to thrive both in and out of the classroom,” said Woonton.

The charity also partners with local businesses to deliver mental health training and seminars for employees across all industries.

“As mental health is increasingly recognised as a key health and safety priority in the workplace, we’re committed to helping businesses – large and small – create healthier, more supportive environments for their staff.”

Woonton said this area of the charity reflected the mission of the charity to make mental wellbeing a shared responsibility, offering practical tools, open conversations, and expert guidance to strengthen mental health in the workplace.

To celebrate Men Making Miles’ 100th class, a celebration will be held on Saturday, September 27, from 12.30pm, at 3a/67 Courtney Rd, Gate Pā.

Woonton said the milestone marks not only the 100th class in Tauranga, but also a celebration of all the men who have been part of the charity’s growth in the five years since its establishment.

The day will take attendees through a series of exercises focused on men’s wellness, before moving into their normal kaupapa session to round things off.

After this, the space will be opened up to friends, whānau, and the wider public to come together in recognition of men’s mental health support.

To finish, Woonton said, they would have a relaxed barbecue and some games for whānau and attendees and a visit from a “well-known” celebrity.