Give the gift of connection this Christmas

For most teenagers, life is full of school, friends, sports, and figuring out who they are. For teens with arthritis, it’s often something very different - injections before class, flare-ups that cancel plans, and feeling misunderstood in a world that thinks arthritis only happens to older people.

But one powerful weekend each summer changes everything.

Your gift helps a teen realise they’re not alone

Arthritis NZ’s Teens Camp brings together young people from across Aotearoa who share experiences, challenges, and hopes. For many, it’s the first time they’ve ever met someone their own age who truly understands.

Teens tell us the same thing every year:

“Camp gave me a community of friends I can talk and relate to.” — Matthew, 18

“You don’t have to explain yourself - everyone just gets it.” — Jacob, 21

This is the moment isolation becomes connection.
It’s the beginning of lifelong friendships.
It’s where confidence starts to grow.

Your Christmas gift makes this possible

You can help one of them get to camp.

Why your gift matters

• Teens with arthritis often hide their condition because they don’t feel understood
• Camp shows them they’re not alone, and that their experiences are shared
• Friendships formed at camp last well beyond the weekend
• Your support builds confidence, resilience, and belonging

This is more than a camp.
It’s community.
It’s understanding.
It’s connection — the kind a teenager with arthritis can’t find anywhere else.

Together, we can make sure no teen faces arthritis alone

With your support, every young person arriving at camp will be welcomed into a community where they can be themselves - no explanations needed.

You can also donate directly in to our bank account:

Account Name: Arthritis New Zealand

Account Number: 03-0502-0468578-00 

Reference: First Name and Last Name

Thank you!