Random Acts of Kindness Day

Random Acts of Kindness Day History

Random Acts of Kindness Day encourages individuals to commit small, unexpected acts of kindness to bring joy and positivity to others. The purpose of this initiative is to motivate people to be kind without expecting anything in return, thereby fostering empathy and a sense of community. It's an opportunity for Kiwis, or people residing in New Zealand, to engage in selfless service and kindness, both in their local communities and wider society.

Random Acts of Kindness Day can be traced back to 1995, the brainchild of an American non-profit organisation, the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. Adopted around the world, New Zealand has embraced this celebration with a unique fervour. Through various random acts of kindness, Kiwis act out their inherent communal spirit, displaying the quintessential attributes of warmth and friendliness the nation is known for. From purchasing a stranger's coffee to volunteering in local community projects, the engagement in RAKD is diverse and commendable.

In New Zealand, RAKD is typically observed in September. Schools, businesses, and individuals come together to celebrate this day by performing acts of kindness in their communities, often driven by themes or causes. These could range from environmental awareness initiatives to gestures contributing to a more caring community. Education providers often dedicate the week around this observance for activities teaching empathy and kindness to their students.

Facts about Random Acts of Kindness Day

• The theme for Random Acts of Kindness Day in 2025 was Make kindness the norm. It will last for a week 9 - 15th and it will cover themes like kindness starts with you, community, workplace, Valentine's Day, school, relationships, and the big reflexion on the last day. While the big celebration will take place on the 17th of February.
• Being kind can reduce stress, anxiety, and even blood pressure according to randomactsofkindness.org. When engaging in acts of kindness, endorphins are released which can help alleviate pain. Kindness helps everyone involved!
• Studies show that engaging in random acts of kindness can help boost mental health and well-being. In New Zealand, organizations such as the Mental Health Foundation promote kindness as an important tool in maintaining mental health and well-being.
• Josh de Jong, a New Zealander, initiated the idea of having a dedicated day to promote random acts of kindness. He was inspired by a similar day called Random Acts of Kindness Week, which was started in the United States in the 1990s.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Random Acts of Kindness Day

Top things to do in NZ for Random Acts of Kindness Day

• Perform an act of kindness for a friend, family member, or even a stranger. Kindness knows no bounds.
• Cook and bake for neighbors: Prepare a home-cooked meal or bake cookies to give to your neighbors.
• "Friendly Flash Mob": Participants organize to share random acts of kindness in city centers across the country. Citizen participation is encouraged and these events are advertised on social media and local press.