Unicycles in Schools
For over 15 years, the Better World Initiative loaned unicycles to schools throughout New Zealand, providing thousands of students with a unique challenge and a boost in self-esteem.
A Legacy of Balance
We specialized in supporting low-decile schools in South Auckland, giving students the chance to experience the excitement of unicycling—an opportunity they likely would never have had otherwise.
Project History
The project operated on a successful "buy-one, borrow-one" model. Over 100 schools benefited from this deal between 2009 and 2012 alone. As various NZ suppliers closed down, we continued to purchase and loan out stock until our supplies were exhausted.
By 2019, all unicycle stock had run out, and this project was officially closed.
Why Unicycling?
Unicycling is more than a circus trick; it is an educational tool. Research in Japan utilizes it as "brain gym" to enhance learning environments.
- Builds unique skills and persistence (taking 1–30 hours to learn).
- Boosts self-esteem by mastering a difficult, visible skill.
- Attracts positive attention and respect from peers.
The Impact
Our fleet reached over 120 schools, including alternative education and at-risk youth programs such as:
Positive Outcomes in NZ Schools
“I worked in an Otara High School when we loaned them unicycles. Students with low self-esteem who weren’t respected by others mastered the unicycle. When they learned to ride—and the ‘cool’ kids didn't—their self-esteem and the respect they received rose greatly. What a wonderful step forward.”
“Thanks so much for the loan... The three were enough to spark a unicycle basketball team. It really took off this year.” — Ben, Wellington High School