In 2026, 25,000 people across Aotearoa pushed for better. Each took on 2,000 push-ups, one for every life lost to suicide worldwide each day. Together, we've helped fund real mental health support.
20 million push-ups
25,000+ participants
$850,000+ for mental health
About the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
Around one in five New Zealanders experience mental health or addiction challenges in any given year. That means it is likely to affect you or someone you care about. Our rangatahi are particularly at risk: suicide remains the leading cause of death for New Zealanders aged 15–19.
The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (the MHF) has been Aotearoa New Zealand’s trusted, independent voice for better mental health for almost 50 years. The MHF empowers people to strengthen their mental wellbeing, support one another through tough times, and advocate for a better mental health system and society.
How the MHF is helping
1 million+
Nationwide
Free help
Bold voice
About The Push-Up Challenge
The Push-Up Challenge started in 2017 in Perth, Australia, with four friends, some push-ups and a desire to get fit. That small idea has grown into a global movement, inspiring people to get fit, connect, and support mental health.
Globally The Push-Up Challenge has now raised over $70 million for mental health and helped more than 1 million participants improve their physical and mental fitness. Now it’s your turn to unite in the push for better and raise much-needed funds for mental health.
In 2026, we launched in the UK and New Zealand, uniting more communities across the world to push for better mental health.
We've come a long way - from four friends to a community of over 1 million. Together, we’re making a difference.
2,000 push-ups in 24 days, from 3 to 26 February 2027. Help us push for better and raise much-needed funds for mental health.
