The Push-Up Challenge, an event which combines mental health and fitness, is set to launch in New Zealand in 2026. Registrations are now open for the event which takes place from 5-27 February. Participants across New Zealand will complete 2,000 push-ups, reflecting the number of people who die by suicide globally each day. Mental Health Foundation chief executive Shaun Robinson says mental health challenges will affect nearly everyone at some point in their lives. "The funds raised through the Challenge will have a huge impact, by supporting our mahi helping people better understand what they or someone they care about, may be going through, and to find hope and a way forward," Robinson says. He says that as well as the impact of the funds raised, the challenge promises a wellbeing boost to everyone who participates. "The Push-Up Challenge hits on so many of those simple, daily things we can all do to lift our wellbeing - connection with mates or work colleagues, being physically active, and learning new things, like education around mental health and wellbeing," he adds. “The more kōrero we can get happening in workplaces, schools and gyms as people talk about why they’re doing 2,000 push-ups in February, the more we break down the stigma around mental distress so people feel more comfortable asking for help if they need it," Robinson says. The Push-Up Challenge is a free event, with participants of all ages and abilities completing 2,000 push-ups over 23 days, while learning about mental health, with the number of daily push-ups changing to reflect a vital mental health fact. If completing 2,000 push-ups feels out of reach, participants can choose exercise alternatives such as sit-ups, squats or tailored exercises, with progress tracked through a dedicated app. The Push-Up Challenge has run in Australia for nine years, and in Canada for two and has seen more than one million participants complete over one billion push-ups, raising over $67 million NZD for mental health. “Aotearoa is Australia’s closest neighbour, and we’ve already had many New Zealanders take part in the Australian event, so it only makes sense to take our beloved Challenge across the ditch,” says Nick Hudson, founder and chief executive of The Push-Up Challenge. “The Push-Up Challenge is a fun and accessible way to improve your fitness, learn about mental health and connect with friends, family and community, all while honouring the lives tragically lost to suicide.” #MENTAL_HEALTH_FOUNDATION #SHAUN_ROBINSON