Pasifika voices are leading this year’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge, calling on young people across Aotearoa to switch off their screens and support children in Solomon Islands facing severe hunger.
Samoan climate advocate Brianna Fruean, singer-songwriter Paige Tapara, and rugby stars Caleb Clarke and Wallace Sititi are backing the campaign, which runs from 19 – 21 June 2026.
Participants are challenged to go offline for 40 hours by giving up phones, gaming, social media, streaming, and even electricity, while raising funds for Pacific families impacted by food insecurity and climate change.
World Vision New Zealand National Director TJ Grant says one in six children in the Pacific is living in severe food poverty.
“These are our closest neighbours in the Pacific, yet nearly half of children under five suffer from chronic malnutrition.
“This year’s challenge asks rangatahi to give up screentime to support families in Solomon Islands, where 80% of people rely on fishing and farming, but climate change is making it harder to put food on the table.”
Caleb Clarke says he is proud to support Pacific children.
“I have Pasifika heritage and Aotearoa has strong links with the Pacific. It’s heartbreaking to know so many children are struggling to get enough to eat.”
Brianna Fruean says action creates hope.
“Doing something collectively reminds us we’re part of something bigger. Together, we can create change.”
Funds raised will help families in Solomon Islands access seeds, tools, and training to grow resilient crops so children can thrive.
Young people can sign up online, with friends, at school, or through their church. For more information, visit 40hour.org.nz
