Bay of Plenty content creator Jordan Watson - known for his How to Dad parenting videos will be taking part in a non-stop 24-hour handball-a-thon at Eden Park on October 30–31.

He will be joined by The Hits radio hosts Megan, Jono and Ben in leading the charge to raise vital funds through KidsCanBall to give 10,000 children the essentials they need to thrive.

Across the country, schools, community groups and individuals have been getting behind the cause - playing handball, running events and fundraising to help children in need.

Jordan Watson is a New Zealand social media sensation best known for his 'How To Dad' parenting videos. Photo / George Novak

KidsCan founder and chief executive Julie Chapman said KidsCanBall was about rallying together to give kids a fair start.

According to statistics from KidsCan, 157,000 Kiwi kids are living in material hardship - going without essentials like food, warm clothing, and shoes.

“It’s heartbreaking that in 2025 we’re still hearing from schools that children are arriving hungry or without warm clothing. Material hardship isn’t abstract - it’s kids missing meals, hiding empty school bags, or staying home because they have no shoes that fit,” said Chapman.

“What gives me hope is seeing New Zealanders step up through KidsCanBall to change that. Every dollar raised helps a child feel included, confident and ready to learn. We’re so thankful to Jordan, Jono, Ben, and Megan from The Hits for taking on this incredible challenge to help kids doing it tough.”

The Hits Breakfast host Jono Pryor said last year’s KidsCanBall was wild, and pretty exhausting, but seeing the impact it had, made every minute worth it.

“This year, we’re going bigger, louder, and sweatier at Eden Park - all for an incredible cause and to help more Kiwi kids thrive,” said Pryor.

This year, KidsCan will provide more than 5.6 million food items, 70,000 raincoats and 55,000 pairs of shoes, along with health items for children in over 1400 schools and early childhood education centres throughout New Zealand.

In addition, KidsCan provides 70,000 healthy lunches weekly to over 500 early childhood centres.

The 24-hour handball-a-thon at Eden Park kicks off at 8am on Wednesday, October 30 and runs until 8am on Thursday, October 31.

How to get involved

Visit www.kidscanball.org.nz to donate and learn more.