Show Up: A Campaign About Presence, Purpose, and Road Safety
This term, we’re asking students across Aotearoa to Show Up—for themselves, for their friends, and for safer roads.
The Show Up campaign is all about recognising the power of presence. It’s about being there when it matters, taking small steps that make a big difference, and building a culture where young people support each other to make safe, confident choices—on and off the road.
Why Show Up?
Because your voice matters. Because your choices matter.
And because every time you show up—whether that’s in a conversation, in a car, or at a crossroads—you have the power to influence what happens next.
Showing up doesn’t have to be huge or hard. It might mean:
Calling out risky behaviour when a friend is speeding, distracted, or drink driving.
Being the sober driver so everyone gets home safe.
Speaking up when you feel uncomfortable in a car.
Starting a conversation about driver licensing, car safety, or distractions.
Planning a road safety event or awareness week at school.
Supporting someone else’s idea and helping bring it to life.
When we all show up—whether it’s through words, actions, or just being present—we create a ripple effect of safety, confidence, and leadership.
Facing Peer Pressure
One of the biggest reasons young people make unsafe choices on the road is because of peer pressure. Sometimes it’s direct, like someone saying “Just go for it, it’s fine.” Other times it’s unspoken—you might feel like you'll seem boring, scared, or over-the-top if you speak up.
But here’s the truth: showing up isn’t weak or boring. It’s brave.
It takes strength to speak up when something doesn’t feel right. It takes courage to say, “Slow down,” or “Can you put your phone away?”
We want to help you develop the confidence and tools to push back on peer pressure and support your friends in doing the same. Because true mates have your back—and real leadership looks like caring enough to keep each other safe.
Simple Ideas to Get Involved
There are heaps of ways to bring Show Up to life in your school or community. You don’t need a massive event—just something that gets people thinking, talking, or acting with more intention. Here are a few easy ideas:
🚗 Licence Journey Support
Run a session with info and resources to help students start or move through their licence journey.
Share links to drive.govt.nz and set up a quiet space for people to study for the theory test.
💬 Conversation Starters
Create a “What Would You Do?” wall with road safety scenarios and invite students to respond.
Set up a peer-to-peer panel or discussion circle on peer pressure and road safety.
🎨 Creative Impact
Host a video challenge—students create 30-second clips showing what it means to show up.
Create a visual pledge wall where students write how they’ll show up this term.
🧠 Awareness Moments
Do a “daily fact” in the notices or in whanau/homeroom time about a road safety stat or tip.
Hold a “Wear Yellow Day” where everyone wears yellow to represent showing up and being seen.
We’re Here to Help
Whether you’re planning something big or small, we’ve got resources, ideas, and support to get you started. We can even run a planning workshop or brainstorm with your group.
📍 Visit the Show Up page: www.sadd.org.nz/show-up
📩 Reach out to your Programme Delivery Lead - find all contact info here.
Let’s Show Up. Together.
Every action- big or small- matters. When you show up for yourself, you give others permission to do the same. When you show up for safety, you become part of the movement creating safer roads, stronger friendships, and more confident decision-making.
So this term, take the chance to make your presence count.
Be the reason someone gets home safe.
Be the reason someone speaks up.
Be the reason change happens.
Show up.