Feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or weighed down? Struggling with your mental health? Feel exhausted at the thought of attending ANOTHER networking event where you have to show up professional and polished, bring your A-game and interact with people only at the surface level?

What if there was an event ...

... where you could just show up with no pressure or expectation.

... where you could connect with a bunch of other humans who are just after the same thing as you: meaningful, real conversations.

... where you could hear from someone else who's been through what you're going through, and can help give you some tools to navigate it.

Well, there is! And it's happening on Friday 2nd May at 7.00am in Takapuna.

What to expect

This is our usual Sip 'n' Stroll event but with a twist ...

We'll meet outside the Takapuna Beach Cafe and grab a coffee (or other beverage of choice) at 7.00am and then go for a walk along the beach. Then we'll park up somewhere on the grass and have a yarn with Stu, who'll share his story, including his own personal experience with burnout. You'll have the chance to ask him questions and chat to others in an informal atmosphere.

The event officially finishes at 8.30am but you're free to leave whenever you need to for work or the school drop-off - no questions asked.

Bring along your kids, your dog, and any friends, family or colleagues you think could also use some fresh air and a good chat.

If it's raining on the morning, we'll grab a table at the cafe or somewhere under shelter.

What to bring
A keep cup if you'd like to grab a takeaway drink. Other than that ... just yourself!

Inclusivity & accessibility

We are an inclusive community and strive to make our events as inclusive as possible for everyone who attends. You can read our community guidelines here. If you have accessibility needs, please speak to us about how we can make this work for you.

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About Stu

Stu Lees is an award winning marketing consultant, trainer, podcaster and coach who has helped thousands of business owners and professionals. But behind the exciting career and a bit of success, Stu has also experienced the toll of burnout firsthand. Having run a fast growing business, he found out first hand what happens when you push too hard for too long. At this event, Stu will share his personal journey with burnout, the lessons he’s learned, and the surprising strategies that helped him find balance again. Expect an open, honest conversation.

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About Project Sunrise
Project Sunrise is a community created by three friends (Clarissa Hirst, Floriane Caillot and Pete Whittaker) designed to support professionals and business owners navigating burnout and mental health struggles. We run events around Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland most Friday mornings, ranging from free walks to mindfulness workshops and gentle exercises, all in a pitch-free, no-expectation environment. You can join our WhatsApp group to find out what's coming up and connect with others in the community.

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Community Disclaimer

This event is intended to foster conversation, connection, and awareness around mental health topics within our community. However, it is important to note that this event is not a professional counselling or therapy service, nor does it replace professional mental health care.

If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health concerns, distress, or crisis, we strongly encourage you to seek support from a licensed mental health professional. In cases of emergency or immediate danger, please seek immediate help by calling emergency services on 111 or a crisis helpline. Details are listed below:

In an emergency or immediate danger - call 111 or go to your nearest ED

Talk to your local Mental Health Crisis Team (CATT Team). In Auckland these are as follows:
Waitematã (Wellsford to North Shore): (09) 486 8900
Henderson: (09) 822 8501
Rodney: (09) 427 0360
Auckland City: 0800 800 717
Counties Manukau (South Auckland to Te Kauwhata): 09 261 3700

Free nationwide counselling services with the Mental Health Foundation - Free call or text 1737

Or visit https://mentalhealth.org.nz/he... for more options.

Thank you for being part of this conversation and supporting mental health awareness.