The Walk Without Fear Trust is calling on New Zealanders to look after one another and make responsible choices as communities across the country.

Chairman Eugene Bareman said the festive season was a time for connection and celebration – but too often ended in preventable tragedy caused by alcohol-fuelled street violence.

“People will be out with family, friends, and loved ones – at home, in bars, in clubs, and on the streets,” Bareman said. “Our message is simple: look after each other.”

Bareman called on people, particularly men, to step in early if situations begin to escalate.

“If things start to get heated, pull your mates back. De-escalate. Walk away,” he said.

“One reckless moment can change lives forever. There’s no honour in violence, and no excuse for street violence. Make it uncool. You’re not ‘the man’ if you’re brawling drunk on the street.”

The trust said its focus was on prevention – encouraging people to make decisions that ensured everyone got home safely.

“We want to start 2026 the right way,” Bareman said. “No families grieving. No lives lost. Just people making it home to the ones who love them.”

The Walk Without Fear Trust works year-round to reduce street violence through education, advocacy, and community engagement.

For more information, visit walkwithoutfeartrust.org

– Supplied content