Gig Buddies Auckland

21/10/2025

Meet Jessie, one of our amazing new volunteers who moved to Aotearoa earlier this year. She’s been paired with her buddy Maria, and together they’ve been diving into all kinds of events around Tāmaki Makaurau!

From quiet, chill outings like a film screening at the Maritime Museum 🎥⚓️ to the energy of a big cultural event in the city 🎊🌍 — they’re making the most of what the city has to offer, one event at a time.

At Gig Buddies, it’s not just our buddies who benefit — volunteers like Jessie also gain a new friend and someone to enjoy events with. Moving to a new place can be isolating, and sometimes we all just need a buddy to go out with ❤️

We’re so glad to have Jessie and Maria as part of the Gig Buddies whānau — here's to many more adventures together!

14/10/2025

Last weekend, our Gig Buddies crew had an amazing time soaking up the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Diwali Festival at Aotea Square! 🕯️✨

It was a fantastic afternoon filled with live music, beautiful dancing, colourful lights, and of course—delicious food! 🍛🎶💃

Events like this are what Gig Buddies is all about—bringing people together to share experiences, build friendships, and celebrate the diversity of our communities. 💛

Thanks to everyone who came along and made it such a memorable day!

07/10/2025

We had an unforgettable time at the recent Pet Expo with some of our buddies and volunteers who are passionate about animals! From cute puppies to curious reptiles, it was a social full of smiles, stories, and shared interests.

It was amazing to see so many pairs connect over a love of pets—and it reminded us just how powerful shared interests can be in building lasting friendships. Whether it’s dogs, cats, birds, or even tarantulas, there’s a buddy out there who shares your passion!

Love walking dogs or visiting pet cafes?
Fascinated by exotic animals?
Have a pet you love talking about?

Let us know in the comments—or tag your buddy who’s as animal-obsessed as you are!

And if you’re interested in coming along to more animal-themed socials or being matched with someone who shares your love of furry (or feathered!) friends, have a chat with us!

Because at Gig Buddies, we believe friendship grows even faster when you’ve got something special in common.

01/10/2025

A few of our Gig Buddies, along with some awesome volunteers, got together to enjoy an afternoon full of laughs and delicious food at Balmoral for the Auckland Moon Festival last weekend! 🎉🍜🥮

We loved exploring the beautiful displays, trying new treats, and soaking in the energy of the festival. Most of all, it was all about hanging out, making new friends, and celebrating different cultures together 💛🌏

Thanks to everyone who came along – we’re all about creating connections, having fun, and experiencing new things as a community. Can’t wait for the next adventure! 🙌💫

25/09/2025

This month, Ash and Francis went to the Dead Kennedys gig at the Powerstation. For Francis, the experience was more than just a concert. Here’s what he had to say:

“I wish to quickly extend my sincere thanks to Gig Buddies for the many opportunities it creates. Last night, through Ash’s invitation, I was able to attend a Dead Kennedys gig. As an autistic person, this was a particularly meaningful experience. The atmosphere was raw, authentic, and liberating — a welcome contrast to my usual routines. It felt as though I had stepped into an entirely new universe.

I am especially grateful to Ash for her kindness in inviting me and ensuring I felt welcome in such a new environment. I feel fortunate to have shared this experience with her. I also wish to acknowledge the valuable role Gig Buddies plays in opening doors to experiences I might never have imagined for myself. Please know that your efforts, and the work of those involved, are deeply appreciated.”

A huge shoutout to Ash for being such an awesome buddy, and to Francis for sharing these heartfelt words. This is exactly what Gig Buddies is all about, creating real connections and making unforgettable memories.

15/09/2025

Whether you dance, headbang, hum along, or just soak it all in — music doesn’t care who you are. And neither do we. ❤️

At Gig Buddies, we believe live music should be accessible, inclusive, and full of joy for everyone — no matter your background, support needs, or how you experience a gig.

Because music brings people together.
Because everyone deserves a front-row moment.
Because a beat can connect hearts before words ever do.

So let’s keep breaking down barriers, turning up the volume, and celebrating what makes us different together.

04/09/2025

🌟 Last night was a fantastic adventure with Gig Buddies! 🌟

Whether it's about nature, music, or just hanging out with good company, a gig can be anything—and last night was a perfect example of how every gig brings something new and exciting.

We had the amazing opportunity to attend an event hosted by the Arataki Visitor Centre in the beautiful Waitakere Ranges, as part of Conservation Week. It was the perfect chance to korero (talk) about the importance of conservation and learn more about protecting our environment.

Along the track, we were lucky enough to see glowing glow worms lighting up the night—a truly magical sight! ✨ And if that wasn’t cool enough, we were given bat detectors! 🦇🔊 We had so much fun listening out for the sounds of our winged friends as we explored the night.

02/09/2025

🎶 Hey Gig Buddies! 🎶

We’re excited to be at Disability Connect Transition Expo 2025! Come swing by our booth, say hi, and hang out in our Chill Out Zone – the perfect spot to take a breather between all the action.

🛋️ We’ve got comfy bean bags waiting for you
🎧 Earmuffs available if things get a bit too loud
💬 And of course, plenty of friendly faces to chat (or just relax) with

Whether you want to unwind, connect, or just enjoy a quiet moment, our space is here for you. 💜

See you there!

26/08/2025

Last Sunday, we swapped amps for ancient rhythms and headed to a Kirtan—and what an amazing experience it was! 🧘‍♂️🎤❤️

If you're wondering, Kirtan is a form of devotional singing that comes from the Bhakti tradition of India. It involves call-and-response chanting, usually with live music, and is all about creating connection, joy, and peace through shared sound. No singing experience needed—just an open heart and a willingness to join in!

We clapped, we chanted, we vibed—and it was pure magic. 🌟 A beautiful way to unwind, feel uplifted, and try something totally new together.

Big thanks to everyone who came along—and if you missed it, don’t worry… we’ll definitely be back! 🙌

Shoutout to The Button Factory for organizing the event.

19/08/2025

Last Friday, we had an epic time cheering on the Warriors as they took on the Dragons — and what a game it was! A tight battle right to the end, with the Warriors coming out on top 14-10! 🙌🔥

The atmosphere was electric, the game kept us on the edge of our seats. A massive thank you to the Warriors Community Foundation for generously providing us with free tickets — your support gave our buddies the chance to be part of an unforgettable night 🫶🏉

Moments like these remind us why community matters. We can’t wait for the next one!

UP THE WAHS!!

15/08/2025

Ever wish making friends didn’t feel so loud or exhausting?

This is a gentle, no-pressure gathering created especially for women who feel overwhelmed by loud, high-energy events, who crave meaningful friendships but aren't sure where to begin, and who are looking to connect with like-minded women in a calm and welcoming space.

No small talk pressure. No big crowds. Just real conversations over coffee, with people who understand what it's like to need a quieter kind of connection.

Come exactly as you are—quiet, thoughtful, curious, or simply exhausted by trying to fit into spaces that never felt quite right. This one is different. This one is for you.

Follow the link below and RSVP to save your spot (limited spaces to keep things cozy)

Welcome to Introverted But Social (Women in Their 20s & 30s) — a gentle space for women who want connection, but find socializing a little hard.This group is for those of us who:• Feel overwhelmed by loud, high-energy events• Crave meaningful friendships but don’t know where to start• Want...

11/08/2025

August is here and it's a great time for a check-in 💙

How are you feeling today?
Have you had a laugh with your Buddy lately?

Even in the colder months, staying connected can make all the difference. Reach out to your Buddy, go to a gig, or just share a hot drink and a chat.

Gig Buddies is an initiative that provides opportunities for social connection. We match people up with a volunteer who shares the same interests and passions, so they can go to events they both enjoy, together.

Interested in being part of Gig Buddies? Follow the link below :
https://www.gigbuddiesauckland.org/