Headway welcomes the Government’s signal that it is moving toward a law change on Run It Straight and similar combat-style events but says legislation alone will not prevent future harm.
“We’re pleased to see movement on this issue,” said Headway CEO Stacey Mowbray. “The risks associated with these events are clear. The question now is whether the legislation is broad enough, strong enough, and enforceable enough to make a meaningful difference.”
Headway first raised concerns about Run It Straight in early May 2025, warning of the significant risk of concussion, traumatic brain injury, and death. Those concerns were echoed by medical experts, researchers, educators and many community leaders and politicians across New Zealand.
The Government’s announcement is an important step forward, but Headway says the details of the legislation will be critical. So to will be the education that goes alongside any law change.
Legislation alone will not be enough. Headway is calling for sustained investment in education to ensure that our young people are able to make informed decisions about their brain health. These violent events are made social media and target our young men. Any education needs to meet them where they are.
