Petricevich said she was pleased with the turnout for the quickly organised event, especially given how busy people were on a weekday.
She hoped a similar event in Whangārei would be held during Mental Health Awareness Week annually.
“We will build on this every year and try and bring the community together.”
Petricevich said the flash mob built on the idea of connection, with the participants laughing and hugging each other at the end.
Even being outside was an important step for people’s mental health, she said.
About 40 people dance to the Bee Gees’ song Stayin’ Alive during a flash mob at Pūtahi Park, Whangārei. Photo / Denise Piper
One of the flash mob participants was Tess Tosach, who was about to launch a social media network Trauma Healing Trauma, for people who suffered childhood abuse.
She said mental health in New Zealand could be improved by addressing the “epidemic” of childhood abuse.
Belonging matters is the theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, with the aim of focusing on small, everyday moments of connection that foster a genuine sense of inclusion and boost mental wellbeing.
Shaun Robinson, chief executive of the Mental Health Foundation, which organises the awareness week, said the theme came at a time of rising loneliness in New Zealand.
Nurturing a sense of belonging was one of the most powerful protective factors for people’s mental health, he said.
The Whangārei event brought people outside to dance, including Turi Hockenhull (left) and Tess Tosach. Photo / Denise Piper
“Humans are social beings and being able to spend time with one another, connect and feel that we belong is vital for our mental and emotional health,” he said.
Mental Health Awareness Week runs until October 18.
Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.