Funfest Celebrates 21 Years of Community, Charity, and a Powerful Partnership With BBM

Funfests Robert Blake, Koreen & Dave Letele,

Team BBM

Team BBM

For 21 years, Funfest has united families and communities for four unforgettable days filled with free rides, entertainment, food, and summer enjoyment. What started as a small outdoor event at Alexandra Park has transformed into one of Aotearoa's largest free family festivals — a celebration of unity, joy, and community spirit.

In 2017, Funfest outgrew its original venue and relocated to the Due Drop Events Centre in Manukau, expanding into a world-class experience with both indoor and outdoor attractions. This move allowed Funfest to grow, welcome more families, and offer an even grander celebration of connection and culture.

DID YOU KNOW?

Many recognize Funfest for its free rides, giveaways, and family fun — but DID YOU KNOW that for the past 21 years, the Funfest Charitable Trust has quietly chosen a charity annually to support with much-needed funds?

Past beneficiaries include Kidz First Children’s Hospital, where Funfest contributed to new, life-saving medical equipment. These donations provided children access to advanced technology for faster and safer treatment — a lasting impact that continues beyond the festival.

This tradition of giving is integral to Funfest. It’s more than a festival — it’s a mission rooted in generosity, service, and uplifting the people of South Auckland and beyond.

A Partnership That Feels Like Whānau: Funfest & BBM

In 2025, Funfest chose BBM (Buttabean Motivation) as its charity partner, resulting in a highly successful collaboration. The partnership raised essential funds and infused the event with warmth, unity, and community spirit.

Funfest Trustee Jonda Mahanga highlights the natural alignment between the two organizations.

“BBM and Funfest are a perfect match. Both of our teams are committed to bringing help and hope to our community.”

The BBM family didn’t just support the event — they became part of its core. Their volunteers were everywhere:

• Assisting families onto the Mahons rides safely

• Running the games tent with enthusiasm and love

• Managing the face-painting area

• Supporting festival operations behind the scenes

“All of our volunteers come from BBM,” Jonda explains. “The BBM family is now a significant part of our event.”

And every moment of fun contributes to a greater cause.

“When you purchase a stall site, sponsorship, enjoy a delicious ice cream from the Tip Top caravan, and have fun in the game tent, you are helping us raise much-needed funds for BBM,” says Jonda.

“Our event brings together corporate organisations and non‑government‑funded groups, each contributing as essential sponsors who help strengthen our community,” she adds.

“For example, Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, who proudly sponsor the Tūhono South Auckland Careers Expo in our main arena, share our dedication to uplifting and empowering our community. Their support as a Community Impact Sponsor not only enhances the opportunities we provide for youth but also directly contributes to the crucial fundraising we do for BBM".

The funds raised directly support BBM’s transformative programs — from food support and community kitchens to fitness initiatives, employment pathways, and comprehensive services that help families rebuild their lives.

21 Years of Heart — And We’re Just Getting Started

As Funfest marks 21 years of selecting a charity annually, the message is clear: this festival is founded on generosity, community, and the belief that together, we can change lives.

With BBM now firmly part of the Funfest family, the future looks brighter than ever.