Raft Races and Big Smiles at Karitane with Buddy Programme

Recently our Buddies came together for an unforgettable day out in Karitane, where their creativity and teamwork were put to the test during a raft-building challenge! Young and Adult Buddies worked together to build rafts, racing a team of enthusiastic locals to see who would succeed on the water.

Armed with various objects that have the potential to float, rope, poles, and plenty of determination, the Buddy teams constructed their rafts, which were surprisingly seaworthy! Once launched, the real excitement began as young and old worked together to paddle out into the water — resulting in plenty of splashing, cheering, and pride at their creations.

“The energy was amazing,” said Jo Scott, East Otago Buddy Coordinator, “you could see how proud the Young Buddies were to work alongside their Adult Buddies, and taking on the local teams added to the fun!”

But the day was about more than just racing, it was an opportunity for young people to grow through new experiences — building confidence, developing teamwork skills and connecting with other children within the programme and the wider community is a major win!

Since the programme began in 1992, hundreds of children across Otago have benefitted from the special mentoring friendship of having an Adult Buddy. And it’s not just about the children either, the Adult Buddies find volunteering very rewarding. “I can already see changes [in my Young Buddy] and an increase in confidence. I get so much out of this too - I’m just so proud of him,” commented one of our Adult Buddies.

The Karitane raft race was a shining example of the Buddy Programme in action: fun, friendship, and a whole lot of heart. Whether they won the race or not, each Buddy left with stronger connections, huge smiles, and memories that will last long after the waves settled.

Get involved with the Buddy Programme

If you are interested in volunteering with our Buddy Programme, please get in touch, we would love to hear from you! Call us on freephone 0508 396 678 or email buddy@psotago.org.nz.

The Buddy Programme is a completely unfunded programme, and relies on grants and donations to continue. If you would like to support this programme please see our donation page.

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