Frequently asked questions

Groups range from about three to fifteen people. Each runs a weekly meeting of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, following the same recognisable format: personal testimonies, progress reports, group work on members’ problems, and practical learning about rebuilding lives.

Friendships form around the shared goal of getting well and staying well, and members often keep in touch between meetings. Your first meeting may feel a little overwhelming — that’s normal. It becomes clearer and more helpful with each visit.

We encourage volunteers to first join as an ordinary member. That way you’ll learn the program, build trust, and get to know the community. Sharing part of your own journey, or a passage from the Grow Journey Book that helped you, is itself a valuable contribution — and it’s how most leaders begin.

You can see practical ways to help on the volunteer duties page. (Student placements depend on the group leader and meeting any university requirements.)

In-person groups offer the most from Grow’s support, but they’re not always possible — which is exactly why our Zoom groups exist, joinable from anywhere. A Zoom group may suit you if:

• There’s no in-person group near you
• You’re caring for children at home
• Work or other commitments clash with meeting times
• You don’t have a car or easy public transport
• Health or disability makes travel difficult
• You’d rather avoid peak-hour or night-time travel, or reduce cost

In-person members also use Zoom temporarily — for example, while away on holiday or when unwell. Find a group for both options.

Anyone is welcome to observe two or three meetings to see how Grow works — whether to refer someone with confidence, or to decide about joining yourself. When you’re satisfied Grow can help, you can become a member by attending regularly. Just let someone know if you’re there as a “Community Observer”.

The right time is now — getting help early matters. Many people come to Grow at a low point, yet after a short while the change can be more than they imagined. A group will first help you feel validated, then build your confidence, and help you learn to trust yourself and others.

Making changes on your own can feel overwhelming. In a group you have the friendly help of peers who’ve been where you are, who’ve learned to apply the program, and who want to show you the same path. It’s a journey of taking back a little more control, week by week — and Grow can help no matter how big or small your struggle feels.

Grow is open to everyone in New Zealand. In-person groups currently meet in Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua and Dunedin — find your nearest group. If there’s none close by, you’re warmly invited to join via Zoom (you’ll need a reasonable amount of data over WiFi or your phone plan).

The one essential is “The Grow Journey” booklet (the Blue Book), $15 plus postage, referred to often in groups. You’ll be lent a copy to use while attending until you’re ready to buy your own. Other books can be picked up over time as you progress, through the shop or within your group.

Anyone willing to help and be helped. Taking part is entirely voluntary, and no referral or medical history is needed. You must be 18 or older to join a group; beyond that, Grow is open to all, regardless of belief, race, colour or class. Some members arrive after hospitalisation, but around half come simply because of a life crisis — a bereavement, a divorce, or a change in career.

Grow isn’t aligned with any particular faith or denomination, and welcomes believers and non-believers alike. Its main aim is to help people with their mental health. If that includes strengthening someone’s faith or spirituality, Grow is supportive of that — especially where it adds to their happiness and outlook.

There’s something for everyone in Grow, but only you can decide if you’re ready. We suggest attending three consecutive meetings to get a real feel for how it works for you. Some come once; others become lifelong members. Take a leap and see.

We respect everyone’s privacy, both for safety and to build trust. What’s shared in a group generally stays within the group, and we ask all members to honour that. You need only be known by your first name if you prefer.

Yes. Every group follows the same recognisable, structured agenda — the Group Method — found in the back of the Grow Journey Book. It keeps meetings on track and means even a newer member can soon learn to chair and lead, which often fast-tracks their confidence and growth. Meetings run about 1.5–2 hours, overseen by an approved Organiser.

Grow New Zealand is part of an international movement that began in Australia. Its National Office is run by seasoned volunteers and is an Incorporated Society registered with the NZ Charities Commission. Individual groups are self-governing and apply for grants to cover their costs, while following the national program’s rules and aims.

Grow is volunteer-run — we don’t employ counsellors or therapists, though we work alongside medical professionals and often receive referrals from them. It runs on mutual help: you can receive support, and offer it too.

There are no fees or dues to attend. If you’d like to give a donation towards your group’s expenses it’s appreciated, but there’s no obligation — a donation box is available so you can give anonymously. If you’d like a receipt, just speak to the group Treasurer first; donations may qualify for tax credits. You can also donate online by credit or debit card, PayPal, direct credit, or GiveALittle — see the donate page.

No — membership is open-ended. You’re welcome to stay for life, regardless of where you are in your recovery, as long as you’re finding comfort and helping others. Long-term active members are often known as “Seasoned Growers”.

Unlike the structured weekly meetings, the socials are relaxed and informal — they’re all about building lasting friendships. Some bring together members of your own group, while larger gatherings are regularly organised across combined groups.

The Grow Journey (Blue Book) is a unique New Zealand edition — other countries use their own slightly different versions. Some other titles on the site are sourced from Australia and Ireland for New Zealanders to use. If you’re outside NZ, we encourage you to request books from that title’s country of origin.