Find connection. Find your tribe.
Most of us have mates. Fewer of us have a place to be honest about what’s really going on and be heard, without being fixed or judged.
Nelson and Tasman men’s groups are opening the doors for a free day designed by men for men: good conversation, real community, and the chance to meet likeminded men who have walked a similar path as you. Whether you’ve been thinking about a men’s group for years or have never set foot in a room like this, come and see what it’s about.
What’s on
- Panels and speakers: Men who’ve walked similar paths share what they’ve faced and what helped, alongside counsellors, social workers and other speakers.
- Workshops, music and movement: A mix of activities so keep thing fun without too much time stuck in a chair.
- Model men’s circles: See how a circle works, then take part if you want to. It’s the best way to find out what a men’s group actually feels like.
- Meet local men’s groups: Connect with men who have done men's work for years. Learn the benefits you can expect.
- Food and coffee: Lunch, baking and coffee all day at low cost.
Not sure it’s for you?
You’re not the only one. Come for an hour or stay for the whole day. There’s no pressure to share, and no one will put you on the spot. Take part at whatever level feels right, and enjoy the company.
Ready for something more?
If you’re keen, we’ll be forming a new men’s group from this day. It will be mentored by experienced men to get it started, then become fully independent once it’s solid. It’s a chance to join at the beginning, with a group of men who chose to show up.
For dads
Are you a dad or a solo dad? Bring your kids and we’ll keep them entertained so you can take part.
Details
- Date: Saturday 14 November 2026
- Time: 11am to 5pm. Please arrive for the 11am start and plan to hang around.
- Venue: Victory Community Centre, 2 Totara Street, Toitoi, Nelson
- Cost: Free for all men. No registration needed, just turn up.
- Men-only event, with some female presenters sharing their insights. Kids welcome.
- Organised by Nelson/Tasman Men’s Groups.
Programme
Here is just some of what you can expect:
What a divorce lawyer knows about happy marriages
with Sarah Moon
Addictions
with Tim James
Conflict & Anger in Relationships
with Victor MacGill
Why it's hard to make changes
with Jaron Jeffries
Healthy Masculinity
with Victor McGill
Intro to Co-counselling
with Martin Love
Reclaim Your Calm - practical tools to help you de-stress
with Jo Monaghan
Demonstration Men's Circles
lead by experienced men, happening all throughout the day
Yoga for men
with Martin Love
Drumming
with Brett Ellis
Questions
I’ve never been to anything like this. Is it for me?
Yes. The day is designed for men with no experience of men’s work as much as for those who’ve done it for years.
Do I have to share anything personal?
No. You can listen, watch and join in as much or as little as you like. Nobody is required to speak.
What actually happens in a men’s circle?
Men sit together and take turns speaking honestly about what’s going on in their lives while the others listen. You’ll see it in action in the model circles and can join one if you’d like to.
Do I need to sign up?
No. Just come along. Arriving at 11am is best, but you’re welcome to drop in any time during the day.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes. Kids are welcome so dads can take part, and we’ll make sure they’re looked after.
Is it free?
Yes, the event is free. Food and coffee are available at low cost.
What if I want to keep going afterwards?
That’s the point. You’ll meet local groups, and a new mentored group is forming from the day for men who want to continue.
Who’s behind this?
It’s organised by Nelson/Tasman Men’s Groups, volunteer men who run and attend regular groups in our region. Contact Hardy on 021 213 2299 or moc.liamg@noslenspuorgsnem.
