It’s Men’s Health Week – Te Wiki Hauora Tāne – 15–21 June
Each June, Men’s Health Week is a timely reminder for Kiwi businesses to focus on an often-overlooked issue: the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of men. Across New Zealand, particularly in industries like construction, transport, and trades, which are prominent on the North Shore, men make up a large portion of the workforce. Yet they are also less likely to seek help or prioritise their health.
For employers, this presents a real opportunity. Workplaces are among the most effective environments to encourage positive change, not through big campaigns, but through practical, everyday actions that fit into how people already work.
At its core, Men’s Health Week is about awareness and prevention. Encouraging regular check-ups, sharing information about common health risks, and simply starting conversations can make a meaningful difference. In industries where long hours and physical demands are the norm, these small reminders can help shift habits over time.
Creating opportunities for early intervention is equally important. Simple initiatives, like on-site health checks, partnering with local providers, or even bringing in a nurse for basic screenings, can make healthcare more accessible, especially for workers who might otherwise put it off.
Physical activity also plays a key role, but it doesn’t have to mean formal programmes. For many Kiwi workplaces, it can be as simple as encouraging movement throughout the day, organising a team challenge, or supporting active breaks. Even in office environments across Auckland, walking meetings or lunchtime fitness sessions can make a difference.
Just as critical is mental well-being. In New Zealand, there’s growing awareness of the importance of mental health, but stigma still exists, particularly among men. Men’s Health Week provides a chance to normalise these conversations. Whether it’s toolbox talks, guest speakers, or simply encouraging managers to check in with their teams, creating a culture of openness is key.
Engagement is often strongest when initiatives feel relatable and low-pressure. Activities like a “Wear Blue Day,” team challenges, or shared morning teas can help break the ice and encourage participation without feeling forced.
Importantly, the goal isn’t to do everything at once. The most effective workplaces focus on small, consistent actions that build over time. Men’s Health Week can act as a starting point, introducing conversations, testing ideas, and building momentum for longer-term wellbeing strategies.
For New Zealand businesses navigating ongoing pressures, from rising costs to workforce demands, supporting employee wellbeing is not just a nice-to-have; it’s essential. Healthier teams are more engaged, more resilient, and better equipped to handle change.
5 Simple Ways to Support Men’s Health at Work
1. Start the Conversation Encourage open discussions through toolbox talks, team check-ins, or guest speakers to normalise talking about health.
2. Offer Health Checks Bring in a nurse or partner with local providers for basic screenings like blood pressure or heart health.
3. Get People Moving Run a step challenge, walking meetings, or lunchtime activities to encourage regular movement.
4. Focus on Mental Wellbeing Promote support services and remind staff it’s okay to speak up about stress or burnout.
5. Use the Official Men’s Health Survey Encourage employees to take the confidential “What’s Your Score?” survey to better understand their current health habits and risks – https://menshealthweek.co.nz/mens-health-survey/
Men’s Health Week is a reminder that investing in people doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with a conversation and the willingness to make wellbeing part of everyday work life.
