Stand Up Ball 2026
friday 15th May, 2026
7pm - 11pm
Tūhura Otago Museum | 419 Great King Street, Central Dunedin
proudly Supporting The Mental Health Foundation
& Pink Shirt Day 2026
Everyone is welcome. While hosted by PINC, the Stand Up Ball is an inclusive event open to people of all genders.
The Stand Up Ball is PINC’s signature formal event—a night dedicated to celebrating strength, compassion, and community while championing a cause that matters deeply. Held in support of Pink Shirt Day, the Stand Up Ball brings our network together to take a collective stance against bullying by promoting kindness, inclusion, and respect. Through an evening of connection, entertainment, and generosity, we aim to raise vital funds for the Mental Health Foundation, helping them continue their important work across Aotearoa. It’s more than a gala—it’s a chance to stand up, speak up, and create lasting change.
Why it Matters
The Cause
Bullying affects individuals, families, workplaces, and communities—and its impact can last far beyond the moment it happens. By supporting Pink Shirt Day and the Mental Health Foundation, the Stand Up Ball helps fund programmes and resources that promote kindness, inclusion, and respect across Aotearoa. This work empowers people to feel safe, valued, and confident to be themselves. When we unite as a community, we amplify this message and help create environments where everyone can thrive. The Stand Up Ball isn’t just an event; it’s a meaningful step toward building a culture of empathy and standing up for what’s right.
Tickets $150 each & Include:
*Group discount for book of 10 tickets down to $1,250
Red carpet welcome at Tūhura Otago Museum
Full access to a vibrant night of entertainment, roaming gourmet food, beer & wine - all while supporting an incredible cause.
Access to our charity auction with spectacular items and experiences up for grabs
This isn’t a sit-down dinner. It’s a stand up, mingle freely, move as you like kind of night - designed for connection, energy, and fun. Wander, graze, chat, dance, and enjoy the atmosphere at your own pace.
Early Bird Sales 10% Discount if purchased before 31 March 2026:
Be quick and secure your early‑bird tickets to this year’s Stand Up Ball before they’re gone! Your ticket gives you full access to an unforgettable night of entertainment, roaming gourmet food, and drinks—all while supporting an incredible cause. Every dollar of profit goes directly to the Mental Health Foundation, so your night out truly makes a difference.
Event Details
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Stand Up Ball. Tickets give you access to a powerful keynote speaker, a lively charity auction, and a full night of entertainment, including a live band. Guests are encouraged to embrace the event’s elegant, pink-inspired theme as we come together in support of kindness and inclusion. Full event details—including venue, schedule, and special announcements—will be shared with ticket holders ahead of the night. Secure your place early, as this signature PINC event is expected to sell out quickly.
THE MC
We’re thrilled to announce Jonathan Usher as our MC—an incredible coup for this year’s ball. Fresh from being awarded the King’s Service Medal for his outstanding contribution to community and entertainment, Jonathan is one of New Zealand’s most accomplished performers, with more than 25 years of captivating audiences across the country and abroad. His magic, quick wit, and warm stage presence are sure to delight all on the night!
Jonathan Usher
ENTERTAINMENT
Get ready for an unforgettable night of live entertainment, with some of Dunedin's finest local musicians offering a range of musical stylings. Adding even more sparkle to the evening, Sisterhood will deliver the perfect vibe for celebration. And when it’s time to turn up the tempo, a talented local covers band will keep the dance floor buzzing with all the classics and favourites—guaranteed to have everyone dancing the night away!
Live & Local Music
SPEAKER
We’re excited to welcome Damian Newell – The Breeze radio broadcaster and former Dunedin City Councillor - as our guest speaker at this year’s Stand Up Ball, proudly supporting the Mental Health Foundation on Pink Shirt Day 2026.
Damian brings a powerful and deeply personal perspective on bullying in the public arena. With honesty, warmth, and his signature positivity, he’ll share insights drawn from years in the public eye - highlighting resilience, kindness, and why speaking up matters.
Damian Newell
UP FOR GRABS
We’re thrilled to welcome Denise Casey (NZ Property Solutions and long-time PINC Dunedin member) and Jason Hynes (Managing Director, LJ Hooker Dunedin) as guest auctioneers for The Stand Up Ball. With decades of experience, sharp instincts, and commanding presence, they’ll lead our live charity auction — a high-energy highlight featuring exclusive items, luxury getaways, and unique local experiences. It’s your chance to bid generously, enjoy some friendly competition, and support a cause that truly matters.
live Auction
Frequently Asked Questions
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No - everyone is welcome. Although hosted by PINC, the Stand Up Ball is an inclusive event for all genders. Men are absolutely encouraged to attend and stand with us in support of kindness, inclusion, and the Mental Health Foundation.
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No table reservations are available at this time.
The Stand Up Ball is a stand‑up, mingle‑freely event - designed for movement, connection, and celebrating the theme of “standing up” (for mental health, and on the dance floor!). You’re free to wander, graze, chat, and dance all night, perfect for connecting with all attendees.We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable, so if you or anyone in your group has accessibility needs that require seating or a specific setup, just let us know and we’ll be happy to support.
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Each ticket includes:
Red carpet welcome, including "awards night" style photography
Full access to entertainment + lively local music
Roaming gourmet food + beer & wine
Access to the charity auctions
A night dedicated to supporting the Mental Health Foundation & Pink Shirt Day
*Group pricing and early‑bird discounts are also available*
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Think elegant and dressy, your chance to glam up! Pink is totally optional: add a splash, a dash, or none at all. Wear whatever makes you feel fabulous.
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Yes. All ticket holders will receive the full schedule, venue details, and announcements (including speaker information, entertainment and auction pack updates) closer to the event. If you have purchased multiple tickets, please ensure this information is shared with your guests.
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Yes. Gourmet grazing tables and rolling canapes will be provided by Precinct Catering. Beer & wine are also included in your ticket purchase.
our Sponsorship Partners
