FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does Make-A-Wish® New Zealand do?

Our mission is to grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses to give them hope, strength, and joy.

How did Make-A-Wish® begin?

Make-A-Wish originated in the United States in 1980. It grew from the dreams of a young boy Christopher James Greicius, who had leukemia and wanted to be a patrolman. His dream came true, and after he passed away, his mother, Linda Bergendahl-Pauling, helped form Make-A-Wish.

Does money donate only go to New Zealand children?

Yes. Although Make-A-Wish is a worldwide charity, the money raised in New Zealand goes towards granting wishes to children in New Zealand. 

How large is Make-A-Wish in New Zealand?

Make-A-Wish New Zealand is a national charity with over 200 volunteers throughout New Zealand. Make-A-Wish has over 50 affiliates worldwide. 

How many wishes do you grant?

Make-A-Wish New Zealand grants over 150 wishes a year. Worldwide Make-A-Wish has granted more than 250,000 wishes. Since 1986 we have granted 3148 wishes at an average of 95 per annum. 

What types of illnesses do wish children suffer from?

All wish recipients have a critical illness. Although this covers a range of conditions, approximately 60% of children who are granted wishes have some form of cancer. 

How is a child eligible for a wish?

To qualify for a wish, the child must have, in the opinion of their treating physician, a critical illness. The child must also be between the age of 3 and under 18 years of age, at the time of application. All eligible wish children receive a wish.

What if a wish cannot be granted to an eligible child?

Our job is to make the impossible possible, so it is a very rare occurrence that we cannot create an appropriate experience for a child in line with their one true wish.  If a child's original wish cannot be granted due to health reasons or other circumstances beyond our control, we will work with the child to identify another wish.

What are the most common wishes?

Every wish is as unique and special as each child's and is only limited by the child's imagination. From going on scary rides with dad or creating magical memories with family members to princess playhouses, tree huts, bedroom makeovers, meeting celebrities, or swimming with dolphins, we always aim to uncover the one true wish. Check out our wish stories section for recent examples of how magical each wish is.

How does Make-A-Wish New Zealand raise money?

Make-A-Wish New Zealand raises money to grant wishes in a variety of ways, including: 

• Corporate partnerships
• Community fundraising
• Events 
• Cause-related marketing
• Sponsorship
• Marketing campaigns
• Direct donations 

How do I apply for a wish?

Download a Wish Application Form here