Issuu

#14 JULY 20TH 2026

I’m looking for a man in ice hockey (preferably fictional)

Ihave a ritual when I’m going through a breakup—dig into my savings, visit the romance section of my local bookstore, and spend big bucks on smutty sport romances.

This time is no different... except now I’m hooked on one sport in particular— ice hockey.

The obsession started with Heated Rivalry, and only grew once BookTok started recommending me more and more and more ice hockey romance series.

My kindle storage has now been taken up by Game Changers, Vancouver Storm, Windy City, Icebreaker, and of course, Off Campus.

When Heated Rivalry and Off Campus became TV shows—I was a goner. I was a monster. In fact, I’ve just

spent the past week crying in bed and rewatching these horny hockey shows.

Writing this down, I realise that I sound like a loser.

But please, I’m just a Kiwi who lives nowhere near an ice hockey rink but is addicted to these books.

If someone has a 12 step programme I can join, please let me know.

For now, I will continue looking for a man in ice hockey... but only a fictional one. The real ones actually look like they play ice hockey and unfortunately that’s just not my type.

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Disclaimer: The views presented within this publication do not necessarily represent the iews of the editor.

NZ Media Council: Those with a complaint towards the publication should first complain in writing to: editor@massivemagazine.org.nz

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Hello hello everyone! Your general Wellington Rep Max here.

What an action packed six months it’s been. I hope everyone has made it to the 2nd sem alive, I sure as hell almost didn’t.

But here we are, for most of you it’s the final semester of the year, but for myself and most of my third year cohort it’s the final semester of university! Wow what a ride it’s been.

If my three years at university, my first sem of being your rep, and Spiderman has taught me anything, its that balance is everything.

So if there’s one thing I’d actually pass on before I’m out the door, it’s that. Don’t let the deadlines eat the fun parts too, and don’t let the fun parts wreck your deadlines either, it goes both ways. Easier said than done, I know, I’m still figuring it out myself with one semester left to prove it.

I say that as someone who spent most of last year convinced I was managing fine, right up until I wasn’t. Turns out you can’t actually run on four hours sleep while running set after set, who knew. All that being said the biggest piece of advice I can give is take that break, take the walk, see your mates, watch the princess bride again, or whatever your version of that is.

It’ll still be there when you get back to the desk, and the desk isn’t going anywhere either way.

Door’s open all semester if you’ve got feedback, concerns, or just want to vent about your course. That’s what I’m here for.

Here’s to finishing strong, and finding some balance while we’re at it.

Max

MONDAY JULY 20TH

Re O-Week Leaves Distance Students Disappointed

Josie Maddox • SHE/HER

Following Re O-week, new and returning Distance students shared their disappointment on the lack of communication about distance events.

Compared to the physical campus re O-weeks this semester, distance students told Massive they were letdown.

Typically, online distance orientation provided events tailored to online students. These featured online seminars, workshops, and conversations to prepare students for distance study.

This semester, distance events included an online murder mystery, quiz night, and howto sessions. These were posted on Te Tira Ahu Pae’s distance social media accounts and website.

However, distance students commented on the Massey@Distance Facebook page that there wasn’t enough communication to advertise these events.

One student commented: “I only came to know of distance orientation after it had happened.”

The student claimed that for one of the events held at 2pm, they were only notified about it at 5:30pm—three hours after it had started.

“Gutted that I missed it, it could have been super helpful to know where everything is.”

Other distance students said there’s been a steady decrease in O-week activities for the distance cohort, and that remaining events were sparse.

One student said that when she first started studying, there were “lots of fun things and there was much more student engagement and higher attendance.”

“I don’t think advertising has been that good though. Seems many people don’t

see posts depending on algorithm or notifications.”

A distance student representative commented that distance events are now managed by Te Tira Ahu Pae staff. This meant the reps “currently have no say over how events are organised, run, or advertised to students”.

Te Tira Ahu Pae was approached for comment, but did not respond.

Comment section on Massey@Distance Facebook page complaining about distance re o-week

Is Oteha Campus Turning into a Ghost Town?

Maya Trotman • SHE/HER

Despite Massey University reporting an increase in student enrolments, RNZ reported last semester that a Tertiary Education Union (TEC) leader said all three campuses feel like ghost towns.

Tertiary Education Union Massey branch co-chair, Te Awatea Ward, told RNZ that staff were aware of on-campus enrolments declining. She said they were particularly concerned at how empty the Auckland campus was.

With a new semester starting, is this still the case?

One Auckland Massey student, Evonne, told Massive that they’d noticed students coming onto campus for orientation week events.

She said that all students were coming back, “with some new students starting their journey”.

However, Te Tira Ahu Pae’s graphic designer, Sophia Millar, suspected the campus was only busy because of re O-week.

“Students, and even distance students, are coming to campus to sign up for clubs,” she said.

According to an article by The Post, official figures showed that there are an all-time high of 5,575 students studying remotely.

A Massey spokesperson explained that many students are “engaging differently with the university than they did in the past” by choosing to move between on-campus and online learning.

They added that student enrolments are growing across all three campuses, along with distance enrolments.

“We are actively reviewing our programme portfolio and investing in campus-based offerings where there is clear student and industry demand.”

Massey said they have not prioritised online delivery over on-campus delivery and recognise that students value the choice of both.

“Our focus is on providing high-quality learning experiences and vibrant campus communities, while offering the flexibility students increasingly expect.”

Photo Credit: Massey University Library

National Disabled Student’s Association Receives Community Capability Grant

Milly Matthews • SHE/HER

$446,000 has been spread across twelve organisations, including the National Disabled Student’s Association (NDSA), in this year’s Community Capability Grant.

The National Disabled Student’s Association advocates for disabled tertiary students across universities, polytechnics and other forms of higher education in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The grant was a part of a larger backing of disabled community leadership.

An NDSA spokesperson said they would prefer not to share how much of the $446,000 they received because not all grant recipients got the same amount.

They were announced on the June 22nd, 2026, and spread $1.7 million across three categories—disabled people’s organisations, community capability, and New Zealand Sign Language.

An NDSA spokesperson said this money will allow the NDSA to take its first steps to being a Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO).

“It’s not necessarily exciting work, but we’re really looking forward to this next step in our journey.

“Being a DPO helps to make sure that we’re consulted with on changes impacting disabled people across the motu, where there’s currently a gap in the DPO space around including youth and learner voices.”

According to a press release from Whaikaha Ministry of Disabled People, the Community Capability Grant aimed to support “leadership, government, and engagement with the disabled community”.

Deputy Chief Executive of Whaikaha Rebecca Elvy said that that the funding was essential for supporting disabled communities.

“This funding helps communities lead, strengthens their voice, and builds capability that will make a real and lasting difference.

“It is pleasing to see this investment reaching a wide range of groups this year, including those who have not always had the same opportunities.”

Other organisations that have received the community capability grant are the Neurodiversity Coalition, Pacific Inc Ltd, NZ Down Syndrome Association, and Rare Disorders NZ.

Minister for Disabled People Hon Louise Upston said: “Supporting disabled people and the organisations that represent them helps us meet our global obligations to uphold the rights of people with disabilities, as well as backing the community to live full and dignified lives.”

Whaikaha will offer the Community Capability Development Grants programme again in 2026/27.

Massey University Council Students Election Taking Place

Ellice Lawrie • SHE/HER

Nominations for the student member on the Massey University Council opened on the 13th of July, giving one student the opportunity to guarantee student voices are heard.

Massey is governed by the Massey University Council, which is made up of 12 members. This includes one elected student member who holds the role for a two-year term.

The current student member is Michelle Matsons, whose term will be completed in December.

In a Q & A with Massey, Matson said that the council’s responsibility is overseeing the long-term direction of the university.

“It’s [the council] responsible for the long-term direction of the university, including approving strategy, overseeing financial sustainability, managing risk, and ensuring the university is well governed.”

Maton said that being part of discussions which shaped the future of Massey has been “incredibly rewarding”.

“I’ve also really valued seeing how much respect Council has for the student voice.”

A Massey University spokesperson encouraged students to apply for the role.

“Student members bring a valuable perspective to Council discussions and decision-making, ensuring that the student voice is represented at the highest level of the institution.”

The ideal candidate would know the wants and needs of Massey students, as well as having the relevant knowledge, skills and experience.

This is a paid role, with all council members each receiving $30,000 annually.

Members must attend six scheduled meetings a year, as well as attending planning days, strategy sessions, and graduation ceremonies.

Nominations for the student member will close on the 31st of July. Voting will then commence on the 10th of August and close on the 28th. All currently enrolled students are eligible to vote.

The results are set to be announced on the 9th of September.

Michelle Matson. Photo/ Massey University

Ministry of Education Finds that Working Students Have Better Pass Rates

Jessie Davidson • SHE/HER

A report by the Ministry of Education revealed that university students with low-intensity work are more likely to pass than students who don’t work.

However, pass rates fall once again if students paired studying with high-intensity work.

“Students working at low and moderate levels have the highest completion rates. Outcomes are generally lower for those working at higher intensity, with more variation at very high levels,” the report stated.

The study found that part-time students, those studying below degree level, and Māori and Pasifika students are more likely to be in high-intensity employment.

In comparison, full-time and degree-level students were found to pair their studies with low-intensity work.

The report said: “This indicates that some groups are more exposed to the risks associated with higher work

intensity under current tertiary education and student support settings.”

The Ministry of Education said that the findings are relevant to policy discussions of student financial support.

“Particularly in assessing whether current settings appropriately support students to balance work and study.”

WORDS BY KAMAIA BAINBRIDGE-FROST

• SHE/HER • NGĀ PUHI, WAIKATO TAINUI, FASITO’OUTA

HYROX ATTEMPTING A WITH NO TRAINING: A SURVIVAL STORY

Quarter life crises have taken over my Instagram. It seems everyone has hit their 20s and are having kids, getting married, running a marathon or doing a HYROX.

Eager to hop on the trend, I surveyed my options. Since I have a girlfriend, can’t afford a ring, and the thought of running a marathon makes me want to vomit, I figured a HYROX is the way to go.

Naturally, Massive’s editor (and my boss) is also going through a quarter life crisis, and agreed to join me.

For health and safety reasons, I carried out a welfare check on the boss via text:

Me: “How are you feeling about doing a hyrox sim?”

Jessie: “I’m feeling unfit. I haven’t worked out in three weeks because I was relaxing in France (#flex). I did climb a mountain while I was away however and I aced that so I’m going to approach this like that mountain—with a handful of M&Ms beforehand and the knowledge that I may need to go to the toilet 20 minutes in.”

STORY

Despite her momentary hiatus as the ultimate gym bro, Jessie is confident she will finish it—however, she promises she will not enjoy it.

“100 wall balls at the very end? Kill me now.”

So, on one cold Wellington morning, Jessie and I dragged our feet into Les Mills Taranaki street. Alongside us was Ruby, our videographer, who was ready to capture our torture in 5K.

Walking in, I was fueled solely by three pieces of chocolate, an empty puku, and pure existential dread. The fear that was pulsing through my body should have been enough to turn me around and back out the door. Instead—after Jessie told me off for not eating enough—I waddled over to the vending machine and purchased a strawberry protein shake.

Hence, it begun. And I have never been more obnoxious. I was yelling, and huffing, and puffing, and borderline crying. Pure noise pollution. It was a sight to see for the innocent bystanders who were just trying to get their steps in.

RUNNING

ONE KILOMETRE BETWEEN EACH EXCERCISE (8KM TOTAL)

Whoever decided that a HYROX should include eight kilometres of running deserves a special place in Hell. From the moment I first stepped foot onto the treadmill, I decided I was going to throw up. My greatest encouragement was Ruby enthusiastically twerking, yelling “keep running”, and reading out alpha male inspirational quotes.

Miraculously, the running actually got easier the further through we got. It helped when I found out I could connect my Netflix account to the treadmill screen and watch Brooklyn Nine-Nine By the last km, I almost didn’t want to take a cheese grater to the kneecap.

SKI

ERG

1000 METRES

Reuniting with the ski erg, I felt like a husband returning from war. I had not felt her apprehensive touch in many moons (a HITT class... one month ago). We waltzed again, and it hurt just as good as the first time.

My triceps were burning, and I couldn’t discern whether it was a tear or sweat that dripped down my face.

SLED PUSH

102KGS 80KGS FOR 50 METRES

I’ve never been more awe struck by Jessie than this moment. She was a beast. She was ripped. Her back muscles were crazy. She is my gym inspiration.

We did cheat a little on this station after we realised we were unable to push the full weight of 102kgs... instead we did a healthy 80kgs and nailed it.

SLED PULL

102KGS FOR 50 METRES

Contrary to our obnoxious hooting and hollering, social anxiety still won out when both Jessie and I couldn’t figure out how to set up the sled push. We took it as a sign from a great higher power and opted out (thank fuck) (sorry).

ROWING

1000 METRES

I was excited for this section. I usually treat rowing like a cop out and get lost in idle contemplation. But I was pissed off when my dissociation game was not on and my brain was completely conscious through every push and pull.

BURPEE

BROAD

JUMPS

80 METRES

Why burpees broad jumps were not my final reason eludes me. Perhaps after enduring a hostage situation on the treadmill, scratching a chalkboard would resemble symphony. I was channeling a firecracker. I was explosive.

However, Jessie kept telling me off when I cheated by walking forward: “Kamaia we would not be winning the HYROX at this rate!”

FARMERS CARRY

32KGS FOR 200 METRES

My credentials for farmers carry begin and end with carrying a sack of potatoes from my car to the kitchen. Popping my cherry was intimidating but not as challenging as I anticipated.

Once again, I was in awe of Jessie’s back muscles.

SANDBAG LUNGES

20KGS FOR 100 METRES

Jessie gave me a false sense of security with her hulk-like strength. Watching her execute these lunges so effortlessly, I lacked the appropriate terror. When the weight hit my shoulders and I realised my mistake, it was too late. I’m lucky I wasn’t squashed like a bug.

WALL BALLS

4KGS 5KGS FOR 100 SETS

After we couldn’t source a 4kg ball, we had to settle with 5kgs. But this might be karma for skipping out on the sled pull. Despite the extra weight, I aced this.

I’m not sure if it was the adrenaline of war being almost over, but I felt like I had done a bump or downed a chug jug. I threw my half of 100 wall balls like it was NOTHING. Jessie was in awe of me.

After surviving the walk through hell and back, my highlights included:

• Jessie’s back muscles

• Brooklyn Nine-Nine on the treadmill

• Ruby twerking

Jessie so eloquently described the aftermath:

“I can’t walk.”

As much as it pains me to admit (physically and mentally), I had a lot of fun. The post HYROX endorphins alongside my lunch of protein oats ignited a beast within me.

With my head tripled in size, this challenge truly did make me check my privilege. I am immensely blessed to be able to move my body and challenge myself daily.

Māori have long since operated from a knowledge of the significance of nurturing taha tinana—the interchangeable relationship between physical health and general health.

The gym bros might have been onto something with this HYROX hype.

Although I still cannot go home and report to the whānau that I am engaged or hapu, I can rest easy knowing I can finish a HYROX simulation.

BEER, CHEESE, AND PUBLIC NUDITY:

Have you ever been relaxing in the bath and wished you were racing down a river instead? Me neither... but some people have!

In 1967, the first bathtub race was hosted in Nanaimo, Canada. Here, a fleet of

event, ‘The Great World Championship Bathtub Race’ continues annually to this day.

Early boats were made of whatever materials contestants could find.

Nowadays, the ‘bathtubs’ are mostly made of fibreglass with an outboard motor attached.

‘The Beer Mile’ is the official name for the unique racing event created in 1989 by several Canadians who declared war on their high school running track (and their stomachs).

Contestants drink a beer, run a lap, and repeat this until they drink four beers and complete

You know that nightmare where you’ve accidentally left the house naked? For some rugby players, it’s actually their dream.

Nude rugby is a proud New Zealand creation, originating in Dunedin in the early 2000s. The Nude Blacks were Dunedin’s

ART BY BRIANNA GRAPES SHE/HER

four laps. Each beer must have a minimum of 5% alcohol, be no less than 335ml, and can’t be shotgunned or tampered with. Vomiting during the race results in an extra penalty lap.

The men’s world record is held by Corey Bellemore, with a time of 4:27 seconds.

For centuries, wheels of cheese have been rolling down Cooper’s Hill in Gloucestershire, England. In hot pursuit of these wheels? Sweaty, British men.

While the origin of cheese wheel races is unknown, it’s thought to be rooted in Pagan rituals marking Summer Solstice. The sport has seen broken bones, concussions, and bruised egos. Yet people still flock to witness the annual grandeur each May.

Cheese wheel chasing commences once a three kilogram wheel of Double Gloucester is dropped down the hill. Once the roll begins, there are no rules. It’s the survival of the fittest.

Whoever makes it to the bottom first is the winner who gets to take home the precious wheel.

official unofficial team, consisting largely of Otago University students amidst other naked volunteers. The first game was hosted in 2002 in celebration of National Nude Day, and it became a hit.

The rules were similar to touch rugby in order to avoid painful injuries and awkward scrums.

You’re making your way up to the goal, you hit the ball, and you score! The crowd roars as you wheel away in victorious bliss!

Wait. Wheel?

Cycleball combines cycling and football, with players using only their bikes to guide the ball.

Two teams of two play on a small 40 metre field while balancing on small, specialist bikes. Players’ feet must stay on the pedals and their hands on the vertical handlebars—which are designed to help aim the front wheel.

It can’t be that hard, right? Just like re-learning how to ride a bike.

SPORTS & POLITICS

As Trump is booed at the Knicks game, Russia’s Olympic ban is lifted, and the Iranian football team are restricted from playing in the USA, the saying “everything is political” has never felt truer.

Particularly in the sports world.

At what point are we no longer just watching a game? If history has proved anything, it’s that sports and politics are inherently intertwined.

New Zealand’s own history is the perfect example of this.

In 1981, the Springbok tour took place in Aotearoa, causing one of the biggest protest movements in NZ history.

New Zealand and South Africa are long-time rugby rivals. But at the time of the 1981 tour, South Africa operated under an apartheid.

This brutal state-sanction meant that South Africa’s indigenous population had no citizenship, land rights or basic human rights.

Kiwis were divided by those who wanted to oppose apartheid and those who wanted to defend rugby tradition and keep it free from politics. Even the NZ Prime Minister at the time, Robert Muldoon, said that “sport and politics don’t mix”.

ART BY ELI ARMSTRONG • HE/THEY WORDS BY ELLICE

• SHE/HER

LAWRIE

Hosting the makesUFC it separate

UFC at the White House it nearly impossible to separate sport from politics.

He was wrong, and the tour proved that. At every single game in the 1981 tour, the Springboks were met with protests from anti-apartheid activists. An estimated 150,000 Kiwis protested, and over 200 protests were held across the country.

The Springbok tour became a moment when all New Zealanders had to question where they drew the line between sports and politics.

As well as highlighting social issues, sporting events have also been used as a tool to push political agendas.

In 1936, the Summer Olympic games were hosted in Berlin. At the time, Germany was under the Nazi regime, and Hitler used the games as propaganda. His intention was to use the games to show the world how superior the ‘Aryan’ race was.

However, Hitler’s plan did not come to fruition after Jesse Owens, an African American man, took home four gold medals. Owens victories were so much more than a man just doing well at the Olympics. It was a show of hope, a direct disproving of Hitler’s beliefs.

In a modern Hitler-esque move, Trump hosted the UFC Freedom 250 on the lawn of the White House in June this year. This encapsulated the over-the -top redneck America Trump is pushing —and it was broadcast internationally.

As Joe Rogan put it: “It’s going to be very high security, and high stress and weird to have a fight at the White House in the middle of a fucking war.”

Hosting the UFC at the White House makes it nearly impossible to separate sport from politics. Can you even watch this event without bringing your political views into the game?

This question has been brought to the forefront with the FIFA world cup. This year, the games are being co-hosted by the USA. Having the USA host the games brought up questions around visas, ongoing wars, and the increased presence of ICE agents.

When presence of ICE agents at the FIFA games in America were confirmed, activist groups across America mobilised—fearing for the safety of workers and game attendees.

On May Day, thousands of protestors marched in Los Angeles chanting “kick ICE out” while dropping soccer balls. There was also a large movement of artists coming together to create anti-ICE art under the name “no ICE in the cup”.

Despite these calls, ICE agents were present at the games. Threats were even made by Border Czar Tom Homan to send “more ICE agents than you have ever seen” to New York City.

FIFA not only highlighted immigration issues inside America but also at its border. Fans, referees and journalists were unable to enter the USA. One Somalian refereee was even dropped from the games when he was denied entry to America.

In a letter from the president of the international sports press association, Gianni Merlo, to the FIFA director of media

relations, he expressed concern about journalists being unable to enter the country.

He wrote: “The cases are countless and, I repeat, unacceptable. Politicians always say that sport unites and builds bridges between young people in countries in conflict, but in this case, we are going in the opposite direction.”

Despite being an event that is meant to bring the world together, it’s instead highlighting a divide.

Sport is supposed to bring us together. Whether you’re playing footy on the local pitch, competing for a medal at the Olympics, or just cheering for your team at a flat or a bar cheering—sports are meant to bring together diverse communities in a common area of community, celebration, and mutual respect.

But we have to be aware of the deeper ramifications that lie beneath the surface of sport. It can provide entertainment and comfort while simultaneously highlighting important political events and movements.

It is a double-edged sword, and we must pay attention to both sides of the pitch.

WORDS BY LEE JUDI • THEY/THEM ART

PARTYING:

A question posed in two circumstances:

1) You and the bros are chucking on jerseys, picking up a six pack, and getting ready to huddle around the game on the T.V.

2) You’re getting dressed, warming up to dance, checking the gig line up, and getting your body ready for another night ending at 7am.

Both situations surround a highly competitive, extremely taxing, and mind-body intensive sport. One gets broadcasted on international television. The other gets deleted from your story the next morning.

Raving is a cutthroat sport that even some of the best athletes can only withstand for a few years in their early 20s. Some athletes even begin in their late teens.

There are, of course, divisions between ability and credibility.

You have the social team where, every couple of weeks, players come out to let loose from their buttonup degree or yo-pro job. They have a limited variety of dance moves and stick to the dense middle of the dance floor.

They don’t know who’s mixing and couldn't tell you the difference between DNB and UK Garage, but are ultimately keeping clubs open with door sales.

Next up is the second division. These guys are committed. Every weekend, you’ll find them dipping between the bathroom and the front row.

Dressed up to the nines and pre’d to perfection, they have a routine that works for them. Part of this routine is getting kicked out of the club for sharing bathroom stalls and then ending the night in bed with some kai before 4am.

This final tier is for the real absolute D1 ravers. Staying away from restriction, these athletes need room to dance. Finding space at

the very back or sides of the dance floor, they’re thrashing, gyrating, and getting lower than thought possible.

If you can’t spot them at your gig, it's because there's an underground bunker rave you didn’t hear about.

The D1s always know the DJ and will only take a break from boogying to talk about Dubstep. Only ever referring to ‘songs’ as ‘tracks’ and having perfectly mastered the act of taking a bump in the open without getting caught, these guys make the game a true sport.

DJ Jswizzle was a prodigy raised from birth by an absolute legend on the scene, their mother—Nam Chucks. As a kid, Jswizzle was perched in booths at gigs across Wellington, ginger beer in hand, carefully studying his mum’s sets.

Like Serena Williams, Jswizzle’s early training makes for a tough competitor—both behind the decks and on the d-floor.

After crushing the national stage at Twisted Frequency, Jswizzle continues to play hard, mix bombastically, and honour the sound system culture that bred them into a true raver.

Jswizzle says, “I keep my eyes on the prize, just as I’m sure my mum did when I was a kid. She’s definitely seen a few sunrises just as I have. I hope to pass my crucial knowledge on to a little one, one day.”

What sets raving apart from other sports comes down to two key factors:

1) All divisions play together.

Obviously there are different genres, line-ups and venues which pander to different athletes, but it’s still open to all players. This makes for a diverse community, experience and dynamic in the game. A social player may even go D1 for a night if they meet the right raver.

2) You can take drugs.

Partying is the only sport known to encourage performance enhancing drugs. In fact, they’re built into the framework of the game. Being able to safely share, handle, and protect your bag throughout the night could be the difference between a player’s success or complete failure.

Nevertheless, there are some crazy D1s that are cold-stone sober. These guys are in it for pure love of the game. They’re usually a bit older and maybe sipping a beer but not a gram in sight. Electronic music runs through their veins.

The legends say that if they cut their finger, blood wouldn’t come out—just the first few notes of Born Slippy by Underworld would.

At the root of every successful partyer is stamina. Who can dance the hardest for the longest? Strategy and preparation are where it starts.

Gig fanatic and ultimate raver, Layla*, once brought a sleeping bag to a long night of raving at the bunkers. When energy ran low, Layla took a quick power

nap before springing back into action. Layla says, “It was definitely necessary for me to get through the night, and I bounced back with more energy than I had before. I often find places where I can nap at house parties too.”

Many ravers bring muesli bars in their purses, prep for a winter boogie with beanies, gloves, and thermals, and purposefully bring easy-to-carry drinking vessels.

No matter the weekend or the division you’re in, every weekend you’ll find thousands will be playing the beautiful sport of partying.

But at the end of it all, if you're moving your body, listening to fat tunes, and connecting with your community, you’re a winner.

TAB HAS IT’S

CLAWS IN YOUR

WORDS BY RUBY BARR • SHE/HER NGĀ PUHI, TAINUI

WALLET

ART BY MĀTA GEIRINGER • SHE/HER NGĀTI KAHUNGUNU KI TE WAIROA

When does online sports gambling become harmful for uni students?

Walk past the TAB on Courtney Place, and you peek into an unfamiliar, tabooed world shielded by semi-reflective glass.

Walk into a sports bar and find tables of people placing bets against strangers to win big alongside their favourite team.

Watch the FIFA and gimmicky advertisements for betting apps play during every ad break.

“WE MAKE BETTING EASY!” “GET YOUR BET ON!”

As digital natives, it feels acceptable to let your online world become consumed by betting apps for the duration of a football game. But at what point does gambling on a sports game become harmful?

For Massey University student Noah Speers, casual betting has become a way to heighten the experience of sports games. But when your gambling habits leave the safety net of your black mirror, he says the lines between enjoyment and addiction blur.

Describing the inside of a TAB, Speers says, “Everyone in there is struggling with a gambling addiction.”

Because sports gambling is often a shared experience for Speers and his friends, the bets are low and it feels harmless.

“It’s easy to look at it and say that I’m just paying to have some fun,” he says.

“It feels like clicking on any other app on my phone.”

During large sporting events, like the FIFA World Cup, Speers says that betting gives you a sense that you’re rooting for a team—even if you’re unfamiliar with them.

For instance, during FIFA’s group stage, 48 teams play with two to four matches being played a day. For most people, they won’t know the details of every team. But betting overcomes this.

“DEATH BY A THOUSAND BITES.”

Speers says, “You’re watching two countries you’ve never heard of playing each other, but if you put a little bet on it, you have a team to root for.”

Over the past six months, Speers has spent around $150 on bets. But most of that money is recycled from past wins.

His biggest win was $140 from a $5 multi-bet during a Premier League football game. Multi-bets allow bettors to bet on multiple things to happen in one game. Not only do these bets increase your chances of winning, but Speers says it’s also much easier to justify spending big.

“I’m risking $50 [on one bet] compared to risking 10 $5’s on a diverse range of bets.”

For students who already enjoy FIFA or have pre-planned watching parties, betting on a match doesn’t feel very serious. After a few losses, spending your student loan to balance the score feels justifiable.

Earlier this year, RNZ reported that an increasing number of students in Aotearoa were spending their student loan on sports gambling.

It revealed that gambling has become “increasingly prominent in New Zealand’s university life” as more online gambling platforms began targeting students.

This is done through targeted and relentless advertisements from sports betting platforms and using social media influencers and athletes to attract young audiences to gambling.

But some students told Massive that there’s a different vibe between sports

betting and online casino gambling. The first is like going to a party and drinking with mates, while the other is like getting drunk alone at home on a Tuesday night.

Shaun Garea, Psychology lecturer and lab director of Massey’s Gaming Research and Investigation Lab, explains this comes down to the advertising of sports gambling.

When you watch an ad for TAB’s Betcha between games, they’re not selling a big win, they’re selling social engagement. It’s almost like they’re advertising a hang out with the boys.

This kind of advertising removes the harmful connotations associated with gambling.

Garea says. “We get conditioned into doing this behaviour. Suddenly, you’re spending more and more because it’s online and available all the time.”

While engaging in competition and sport is in our nature as humans, Garea says “when we start monetising competitions, we enter a space where some people are disproportionately engaging to the point that it results in incredible harm”.

Online gambling provides a space where placing small bets (micro betting) becomes highly accessible. This makes placing small bets feel less serious and encourages bettors to spend more frequently.

“Death by a thousand bites.”

Garea says that consistent micro betting encourages compulsive checking behaviours.

“Instead of feeling like you’ve put on a bet to see if you can win something, you begin to feel negative emotions if you’re not checking the app.”

When you open TAB’s betting app, Betcha, bold green text reading “WIN” greets you immediately. And instead of a bold red text reading “LOSS”, rows of losses are typed out in lowercase, grey text reading: “no returns”.

This lack of urgent symbolism conditions users to feel ambivalent about a loss. Or, as Garea puts it, “in other words, don’t worry about it”.

Gambling apps rely on loud positive reinforcement and the minimisation of loss to keep users spending their money.

“If you give someone a reason to come in and do something, then it’s more likely that they’ll keep playing and spending money,” Garea says.

Problem Gambling Foundation NZ launched a campaign which exposes the psychological tactics that sport betting companies use to target people—particularly young men.

The campaign, ‘Are You Being Played’, aims to educate Kiwis so they can make informed decisions and avoid getting caught in a cycle of harm.

Whether it’s a bet between friends or a $1 bet on the next FIFA game, casual gambling is ingrained in our society. But we must be careful and notice when it begins to blur the line between harmless and harmful.

In other words, don’t let betting make you feel like—as Noah Speers so eloquently put it—”a fucking loser”.

Freephone: 0800 664 262 Text: 5819 Email: help@pgf.nz

Text: 8006

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR

HOLLYWOOD SPORTS?

Who won the first Quidditch game in the Half Blood Prince?

A) Gryffindor

B) Ravenclaw

C) Slytherin

What is the made-up drinking game in New Girl? 2

A) Red, blue & drink until you puke

B) True American

C) 50 stars & 50 shots

A) 3

A) Cricket

B) Basketball

C) Golf

What sport has Adam Sandler not played in a movie? 4

Who was the famous basketball player in Space Jam? 5

A) Kobe Bryant

B) Steven Adams

C) Michael Jordan

A) Triple Axel

B) Triple Lutz

What was Tonya Harding’s famous move? 7

C) Biellmann Spin

A) Men of Ice

B) Blades of Glory

C) Edges of Skates

B) 4

How many Cars movies are there? 3

C) 5

What was the name of the women’s football team in Bend It Like Beckham?

A) Sussex Stepovers

B) Hounslow Harriers

C) Derby Dribblers

What was the name of the movie about a male figure skating pair? 8

Logan Edwards ‘Belong To Someone Else’ Tour with Emily Esplin

Fri, 24 July Big Fan

Oscar Dowling Album Release Tour

Fri, 24 July Porridge Watson

live electronic music: a fundraising event for Aotearoa wetlands

Kokoa Nashi - Motherlode

Watercolour - Loose Ends

Welcomer - Crscents

Diesel Jenny - Longbow

Shark vs Lion - Buttons (Nutellamonk Remix)

Club Tremaine - Hoya

The Hendersons - Vegetarians Suck

Dick Cheese

G.L.N.C - Send In The Blades

Caru & Brandn Shiraz - Best Believe (feat. fadedpuppy)

beth torrance - Suzy May

Overload - Round and Round

Kia

ora Mother! I’m recently single and have decided I want to become a WAG. What’s the best way to do this, and who would you recommend?

Firstly, my deepest condolences on your recent split. Secondly, what better way to get over your ex than hooking up with someone much more talented, sexy and (hopefully) financially successful!

For those unfamiliar with the term W.A.G, it stands for: wives and girlfriends of professional athletes. Who doesn’t want to be snapped by the paparazzi smooshing lips with Portia Woodman?

If you want to be with an athlete, educate yourself on the sport of your choice. In my opinion, Rugby League breeds the sexiest players (those short shorts speak for themselves). You want your mind to be an encyclopedia of tries, tackles, and scrums.

Next, go to your nearest sports hub—the pub. What do athletes like more than being on the field?

A pint. With a Guinness in hand, work your magic and sweet talk your way to the next practice before the big game.

Finally, sit on the sidelines of the practice pitch and watch your prospective partner with adoring eyes. What player battling their seventh concussion would say no!?

My work crush and I were closing together when our post-shift delusion kicked in, and the convo options were either deeply philosophical or wildly horny. We obviously took the latter option.

So there we were wiping benches in our ugly ass Subway uniforms, when he asked me if I listened to music during sex. I actively choked on my own saliva, but, like the baddie I am, recovered whatever dignity I had left, leaned against the counter and told him in no uncertain terms that I’m into whatever he’s into.

Insane behaviour considering I was eight months deep into a dry spell, and sex, let alone flirting, genuinely felt like mythical.

With a panty-dropping smile, the man told me his favourite sex song is Tate McRae’s Sports Car because it “makes you want to go hard and fast,” and I swear to god I came then and there.

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One thing led to another, and we ended up in the back of his car with none other than Sports Car blasting through the speakers. I threw my legs over his hips, he rolled on a condom, and when the chorus hit, he GRABBED MY HIPS, told me I’m a DIRTY GIRL, and said, “Ride me faster.”

I don’t know what spirit possessed me in that moment, but I went absolutely feral. I was taking his footlong like my life depended on it. That car was rocking, my thighs were shaking, and Tate McRae was probably enabling crimes against feminism through the aux cord.

But seeing the look on his face when he finished was actually life-changing. Nothing has ever boosted my ego more than making a man look genuinely incapable of forming a coherent thought while our lord and saviour, Tate McRae, sang in the background.

This week will be big, so you need to reflect on your crisis management skills. You often resort to anger, but try harness mindfulness before you start screaming at your flatmates.

As the new moon approaches, it’s time to revisit meaningful conversations that have been left to simmer. It’s time to tie old knots before starting new ones.

This week brings clarity. If you’re holding grudges, it might be a good time to let them go. Let negative thoughts wash away and approach things with an open mind.

You’re entering a period of purposeful action this week. Focus your energy on relationships and projects that reflect your core values instead of jumping on the next big thing.

This week is a good time to prioritise alone time and let go of your anxious attachment style. Focus on your selfworth instead of relying on others to fill that void.

Worries about how others perceive you has beaten down your selfconfidence. Let go of your need for control and understand that your brain is the only one talking about you.

It’s time to start rebuilding your social calendar. Say yes to every event invite even if you don’t want to go. Soon enough, winter will start looking a little brighter.

This week, verbalising your problems becomes an impossible task. Take time to mentally articulate your issues before trying to communicate them to avoid a disagreement.

Don’t let the start of semester stress you out. Look at the now instead of focusing on the big picture. Feel secure in your decisions instead of wallowing in existential dread.

Your Pinterest mood board won’t be in fashion forever, so you may need to rethink your next tattoo idea. Save that patch of skin and reflect on making good choices.

Your money is healthy, but so is your ego. Stop buying flashy items that make you look like a walking promotion for designer brands. If you’re going to be a tag hag, do it tastefully.

After a weekend of partying, you will receive an influx of follow requests, party invitations, and coffee dates because your energy is addictive.