A new health initiative aiming to uplift the wellbeing of Porirua whānau will launch on Monday, 25 August, at Takapūwāhia Marae. Ora Toa Health is partnering with Brown Buttabean Motivation (BBM) to bring the acclaimed “From the Couch” programme to the community.
Founded by Dave Letele, BBM is a grassroots movement renowned for transforming lives through accessible fitness, nutrition, and mindset support. Letele, along with BBM General Manager Kylie Norton, will be in Porirua for the official pōwhiri to mark the start of this initiative.
“BBM From the Couch should be right around the country and given access to everyone. We’ve shown that it works,” Letele said, reflecting on the success of previous launches like Whangārei earlier this year.
From the Couch is a free 12-week lifestyle programme tailored for individuals living with chronic health conditions, mobility challenges, or those just beginning their wellness journey. The sessions focus on building strength, confidence, and healthier habits—starting literally from the couch.
In Porirua, the programme will be led by Ora Toa staff and BBM-trained coaches, including Roberta Hurunui and Kipo Finau. Participants will attend three sessions per week, with additional nutrition workshops hosted at Puna Ora. Six cohorts are scheduled to run over the next two years.
“This kaupapa goes beyond fitness and is about building resilience, creating real change, and showing our whānau that it’s never too late to start,” said Mel Haerewa, Ora Toa’s Community Health Manager.
The partnership between Ora Toa and BBM underscores a shared commitment to improving community wellbeing and building long-term resilience in Porirua.
Event Details:
- What: Pōwhiri for the launch of From the Couch in Porirua
- When: Monday, 25 August 2025, 9am
- Where: Takapūwāhia Marae, Corner of Te Hiko St & Ngāti Toa St, Porirua
- Who: Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, Ora Toa Health, BBM