PĀNUI
NEWS
0800 HEY BRO RETURNS IN 2026.
07 / 01 / 2026
The re-establishment of 0800 HEY BRO reflects a renewed commitment to addressing harm in ways that are purposeful, coordinated, and intentional with an understanding of how people’s lives are woven together. Like the strands of a harakeke kete, the different aspects of a person’s life are interdependent. When one strand weakens, others are affected. In situations of family violence, these strands can fray to the point where a person’s ability to seek help is significantly reduced.
0800 HEY BRO exists to strengthen those strands before they break. It operates as an early intervention and crisis response point, recognising that harm does not sit in isolation. Stress, addiction, isolation, financial pressure, grief, and disconnection all intersect, and meaningful responses must reflect that complexity. Rather than responding to single incidents in isolation, the kaupapa behind 0800 HEY BRO is about integrated, coordinated support that puts safety, accountability, and long-term change at the centre.
The line is managed 24/7 by kaimahi who each have a range of experience in the practice of crisis descalation, understanding both the realities of crisis and the importance of trust. Callers are met with calm, confidential, and non-judgemental support. Where risk is identified, kaimahi work to connect people with the services best placed to respond, ensuring information is shared appropriately and that support is not fragmented. The aim is not simply to manage a moment of crisis, but to support pathways toward safety, stability, and wellbeing for everyone involved.
"If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, at risk of harming themselves or others, or needs support, call 0800 HEY BRO (439 276)."
0800 HEY BRO is available to anyone who needs support. Tāne can call for mentoring or guidance. Wāhine can call if they are concerned about their partner’s behaviour, need support to de-escalate a situation, or feel at risk themselves. Tamariki and rangatahi can also call, recognising that young people are often witnesses to high-risk situations and as a result carry their own emotional burden. All calls are private and confidential unless the caller gives permission for further support to be sought.
Since its inception, the line has received an average of 120 calls per month, with over 2,400 calls made since the initiative began. These numbers speak not only to demand, but to trust. They reflect the need for a service that meets people where they are, acknowledges the full context of their lives, and works collaboratively to restore balance.
The kaupapa for 0800 HEY BRO was first envisioned in 2018, born from a simple but powerful realisation that while victims had pathways to support, men often did not have anywhere to turn before harm occurred. What began with just two tāne answering calls has grown into a nationwide service, supporting people across the motu.
The re-establishment of 0800 HEY BRO is still about integrating safety responses, strengthening the strands that hold whānau together, and ensuring that safety, accountability, and healing are shared responsibilities. When people are supported early, when services work together, and when help is accessible without shame, real change becomes possible.
