HealthInfo Aoraki South Canterbury
Bullying is behaviour that is intended to harm someone. Bullying can also be a misuse of power, such as in a personal or professional relationship.
Bullying is serious. It can happen anywhere and be done by anyone, and it does not just happen to rangatahi (young people).
Different types of bullying include:
If you, or someone you know is being bullied, it is important to tell an adult you trust and ask for help. If you do not want to or feel you have no one to talk to, you could try one of the phone helplines below.
If you are a bully, be aware that this behaviour not only has long-term negative effects on people you are bullying but also on yourself. Take time to have a think about what you are doing and why. If you cannot control your bullying, you may need some help to change your behaviour.
The links below have information to help rangatahi who are being bullied, and to help those who have been accused of bullying to change.
0800 What's Up? is a free counselling helpline and webchat service for tamariki (children) and rangatahi.
You can also read about different kinds of bullying, why people get bullied and how to deal with it.
Any rangatahi in New Zealand, or anyone supporting a rangatahi, can call Youthline for help.
Freephone 0800‑376-633 (any time) or free txt 234 to speak to a counsellor.
You can also chat online using the webchat between 10 am and 10 pm, Tuesday to Friday and 4:30 pm to 10 pm, Saturday to Monday.
Email any time. Counsellors aim to respond to emails within 24 hours.
HealthInfo recommends the following videos
Sticks 'n Stones is a rangatahi led programme based in Central Otago committed to taking positive action online.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
Aunty Dee can help solve problems with issues like bullying, depression, drinking, grief and sex. The website is designed for young Pacific people, but it can help all rangatahi.
Information about bullying and how to deal with it. Includes videos about bullying.
Information and help with cyberbullying.
How to deal with bullying and what to do about bullying at school.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed February 2024.
Review key: HIBUL-50759