Hikoi for Healing - Māngere steps up for mental health

Fitz (centre) on the hīkoi for suicide and mental health

A community hīkoi held in Māngere recently brought together hundreds of locals to raise awareness about suicide and mental health, while offering a space for healing, connection, and kōrero.

The event was a collaboration between Tom Polo of Alpha Wellness and community leader Fitz from the TwoSevenFive. Foundation and barbershop. Polo had previously run similar walks in Manurewa and Ōtara before bringing the kaupapa to Māngere.

“It was a real community effort,” Fitz says. “Tom had the idea, and we worked together to bring it to life for Māngere.”

The hīkoi took participants on a short walk from the Māngere Town Centre, up Robertson Road, across the new bridge, and back again—finishing with a free sausage sizzle and live music from a local group.

Roughly 200 to 300 people took part, turning out on foot to show support, reflect on shared losses, and be part of a collective healing process.

One of the main organisers Tom Paulo (second from left, black hoodie)

For Fitz, one of the most powerful moments was speaking publicly for the first time about losing two close friends to suicide.

“That was a big thing for me—saying it out loud. But even more powerful was seeing other people from our community step up and share their stories. That’s the start of healing—speaking it out.”

Fitz says that the pain of suicide doesn’t end with the person who has passed—it’s often carried by those left behind.

“This hīkoi was about giving those families a chance to begin their own healing, to know they’re not alone.”

The kaupapa of the day was also about breaking the silence.

“We need to normalise talking about suicide,” he says. “We need to keep reminding our people—especially our rangatahi—that suicide is not the answer.”

And his message for the Māngere community is quite simple.

“A problem shared is a problem halved.

“Whatever you’re going through—know that it’s temporary. Talk to someone. But make sure it’s the right someone. Not everyone is ready to hold space for that kōrero, so seek out professionals, or people you really trust. And don’t be afraid to reach out. There’s help out there.”

With so many online tools available, Fitz is also encouraging those struggling to make sure they ask for support.

“Just sending one message can be the start of a way out.”

While there are hopes to grow the event in future, the main goal remains the same - building safe, supportive spaces where tough conversations can happen and healing can begin.

“Hopefully, this hīkoi made it a little easier for someone to speak up.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, free support is available:

Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 to talk to a trained counsellor, 24 hours a day.

Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text 4357

Youthline: 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz

Samaritans: 0800 726 666

Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202