ABOUT US

About the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand

Funds raised will support the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (MHF). 

MHF works to improve mental wellbeing across the country, providing programmes, campaigns, and resources that empower communities, whānau, workplaces, and schools to care for their mental health and build resilience. Your participation helps MHF continue this vital work. 

Your support can help 

  • Give people and communities the tools they need to support mental wellbeing. 
  • Drive change by funding advocacy for stronger mental health services and policies. 
  • Strengthen communities by supporting projects that spark awareness and open conversations. 

By joining in The Push-Up Challenge and raising funds, you’re helping MHF continue this vital work across the country. 

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're launching 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. 

The Push-Up Challenge New Zealand

OUR JOURNEY

2018

1,000+ participants
$50,000 AUD raised 

2023

723,000 participants 
$40m AUD raised since 2017
 

2024

991,000 participants
$56m AUD
raised 
since 2017
International expansion to Canada 

2025

1,200,000 participants
$73m AUD raised since 2017
Participating countries: 2
 

2026

Expansion to New Zealand and United Kingdom
Participating countries: 4

JOIN THE GLOBAL MOVEMENT