When we look back on how far we’ve come, it’s hard not to feel proud — and a little amazed — at what’s grown from one simple idea.

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It all began after the floods in Westport. We’d been watching the news and felt that familiar tug in our hearts — what can we do to help? That’s when the idea came to us: what if we loaded up the car with some home baking and delivered it to those affected, just to show that someone cares?

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We put the call out to our community — and wow, did they respond! We know all too well that during emergencies, the focus is on safety and essential services. The last thing anyone has time for is organising home baking or cooked meals. But those small comforts can make a world of difference. 

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Our passion for helping others goes back even further. When Cyclone Gita hit the Riwaka area, Melissa was leading a group called Beyond the Bridge Riwaka, which quickly mobilised to support residents in the months that followed. You can read more about that in the article below. Fast forward to 2021 — and The Big Bake Up was born. In early 2024, we proudly received our official charity status.

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As parents raising five busy young men, we understand the pressures of everyday life. When we thought about what we wanted this charity to stand for, the answer was simple: practical, immediate support for anyone going through a tough or unexpected time. No red tape. No waiting. Just kindness, right when it’s needed most.

After a natural disaster or personal crisis, we visit people in their homes, take time to chat, check in on how they’re doing, and leave them with a parcel filled with nourishing meals and treats. Our hope is that this small act of kindness helps lift their spirits and gives them a little strength to face what’s ahead. We also believe in being prepared. None of us know when the next storm, flood, or challenge might come — so we cook regularly, usually twice a month, filling freezers with ready-to-go meals. We cater for a variety of needs, including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Our team loves to bake, too — so every care parcel includes a few meals, a dessert, and some delicious home baking.

We’re proud to work alongside wonderful organisations such as:
Age Concern, NZ Police, Fire & Emergency, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Cancer Society, Plunket, Te Whatu Ora, Nelson Bays Primary Health, local schools, medical centres, and pharmacies. Through these connections, we receive referrals for families and individuals who could use a little extra support. We also receive community nominations — from neighbours, friends, or family members — for people quietly doing it tough. Those unexpected care parcels often mean the world to someone who is struggling silently. A way to show encouragement and to support. 

Every parcel we send out is made with love and care. We take great pride in the packaging — making sure it’s unique and personal, tailored to the person or family receiving it. We often include a little note, because many people who receive a parcel have no idea it’s coming, and we want them to feel the heart behind it.

The kindness behind The Big Bake Up has a way of multiplying. Once you’ve received it, you can’t help but want to pass it on. We’re growing — and we’d love your support to keep this ship sailing strong through all kinds of weather. You can read more about our work in the articles below. And if you’d like to get involved in any way, big or small, please don’t hesitate to reach out to either of us.

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With love and kindness,
Melissa Woodhouse & Brent Eggers