Blue Brothers

15/06/2026

Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu - National Volunteer Week: 14 – 20 June 2026

This week, we are celebrating the remarkable individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to ensuring the success of the Blue Brothers Movement. Your unwavering commitment enables our organisation to thrive and grow stronger with each passing year 💙

A ‘Big thanks’ must go to:

Tracy Henderson, Rosie Barraud, David Clarkson and Sacha Edwards, who lend their expertise to our newsletter, media and promotional materials.

Bev Rudkin and Tracy Henderson who host the afternoon teas for Mid-Canterbury and Selwyn.

Jeanette Anderson, who recently joined our team and is assisting with administrative tasks.

The leaders, who oversee the regional hubs and consistently go above and beyond.

The volunteers who diligently support our cause at fundraising and other events.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed their time to Blue Brothers. Your collective efforts and driving force have not gone unnoticed 💙💙

From the Blue Brothers Management team 💙

08/06/2026

Take the quiz below blokes ⬇️

Men’s Health Week is coming. From June 15 to 21, we’re asking Kiwi men one simple question: What’s Your Score?

Take a few minutes, check in with yourself and find out where you stand ➡️ https://menshealthweek.co.nz/mens-health-survey/

28/05/2026

Meet our trainers series 💙

Next up is our incredible top of the south trainer - Hannes Schoeman.

“Although I originally studied Sport Science, I identify as a Strength and Conditioning coach. I have worked with all ages and levels including Olympic level athletes.
For the last 9 years or so my focus has been injury prevention, pain free living and performance. This includes multiple other qualifications.
It has been a privilege working with cancer survivors over the last few years, and I admire all of them a lot. I’m honored to be a small part of the Blue Brothers organisation.
It’s my long-term goal to one day be a mentor and train other trainers around the world.
The Blue Brothers Movement in Marlborough is steadily growing—it’s fantastic to see our group gaining traction and support from the region. While we usually have exciting events and updates to share, this time we found ourselves struggling to put together a full article for the newsletter. However, there’s an important recognition we’d like to make.
A massive thank you goes out to Cancer Society Marlborough and especially to Dallace Lilley for their unwavering support. Their encouragement and involvement have been essential in helping the Blue Brothers Movement thrive in Marlborough, and we are deeply grateful for their contributions to our cause.”

Hannes takes our Blue Brothers 10am Tuesday Blenheim class, and would love to see you there!

Send us a message for more info on this class 💙

03/05/2026

Happy 2nd birthday to our Mid-Canterbury brothers 💙

This week was celebrated in style with cake and lots of cheers!

A big thank you to our supporters, Cancer Society Mid-Canterbury, the Braided Rivers Trust in conjunction with the Lion Foundation, and Fit4Life - the home of Blue Brothers Mid-Canterbury - you guys rock!

21/04/2026

Meet our trainers series 💙

Next up is our superstar trainer - Ainsley Burton.

“Hello, I am Ainsley.
Health, fitness, and wellbeing have been significant aspects of my life, involving participation in various sports at a representative level from a young age to still finding enjoyment in movement every day. I still love to get out on the water either sailing, paddle boarding or getting into the mountains or bush for hikes or biking. Being outdoors is important to me.
My passion is to support others to find their movement that they enjoy and that feels good for them. After coaching sports and other activities for many years – helping and supporting others has always felt natural. 
I trained as a personal trainer and started my business RejuvenateYou and continued my training and education in functional and holistic health - Focusing on the whole person. I now support clients in improving their health, fitness and overall wellbeing by teaching them to understand how they cansupport their own body and be responsible for their own health. 
After my cancer diagnosis in 2020, movement/exercise became even more important to me for my mind body and soul. I believe being physically fit before and continuing to exercise since has supported my healing body. I feel stronger with each year. 
I am excited to help others who are living with cancer to enjoy the benefits of exercise and to hopefully have great outcomes!”
nz takes our Blue Brothers 10am Thursday Christchurch West, and 2pm Tuesday Selwyn classes, and would love to see you there!

Send us a message for more info on these classes 💙

07/04/2026

Meet our trainers series 💙

First up is our newest trainer to our team - Lynne Allen.

“As the founder of Lynne Allen Personal Training and LA Pilates NZ, I’ve built a career around tailoring exercise to meet complex needs—whether supporting client’s post-surgery, navigating cancer recovery, or rebuilding strength after setbacks.

Recently, I recertified my CETI Cancer Rehabilitation Advanced Specialist certification, equipping me with advanced knowledge to guide clients through post-diagnosis and post-treatment care. This aligns with your mission of providing practical and social support to those affected by cancer.

My current work integrates CETI guidelines, pelvic floor rehabilitation, and progressive programming for pre/postnatal and aging populations. I’ve also collaborated with many health professionals to support clients with other chronic conditions, ensuring safety, dignity, and measurable progress in every session.

Beyond one-on-one care, I thrive in group facilitation and public speaking. I have delivered workshops and presentations on peri menopause/menopause, pelvic floor health, and movement education, always with a focus on clarity, humor, and empowerment.

My ability to connect with people—whether in small groups, drop-in clinics, or larger community sessions—ensures that every person feels supported and understood.”

takes our Blue Brothers 1045am Tuesday classes at Parakiore Sports and Recreation Centre and would love to see you there!

Send us a message for more info on this class 💙

05/03/2026

This Tuesday we held our first Blue Brothers Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre class with the incredible 💙

Some familiar faces turned up to mark the first class and enjoyed the new environment Parakiore had to offer!

This class will run every Tuesday 10:45am, sign ups are necessary as class numbers are limited.

Learn more by heading to our website:
www.bluebrothers.org.nz

23/02/2026

Bookings are now live for our new class at Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre, starting Tuesday 3rd March @10:45am 💙

Head to the link below / in comments / in our bio to book your spot now - numbers are limited so get in quick!

app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=37356882&appointmentType=89433924

18/11/2025

Blue Brothers supports International Men's Day. This day aims to highlight inspiring stories and raise awareness about the challenges men face. The day also encourages initiatives that promote better health and quality of life.

31/10/2025

How amazing is this news!! We are so proud 😍💙

🎉 We’re proud to announce that our Blue Brothers men’s fitness class for those living with cancer has been ACC-accredited and approved by Sport Canterbury! 🎉

A huge congratulations to our amazing trainer Colleen, whose dedication and expertise helped Fit 4 Life achieve this certification under the Live Stronger for Longer initiative - supporting strength, balance, and wellbeing to help prevent falls and fractures.

💪 Together, we’re building stronger, healthier lives!