Tauranga residents are being encouraged to engage in a national campaign aimed at raising the awareness of bullying by wearing a pink shirt this Friday.

The nationwide campaign called Pink Shirt Day Aotearoa on May 18 is aimed at getting people talking about how bullying can be reduced in schools and communities.

Tauranga's Moana Radio Breakfast show host Pat Spellman says bullying is not OK.

'Our Tamariki need to know that. If wearing a pink shirt can create a bit of awareness, sign me up.

'All kids in Aotearoa are entitled to feel safe at school, home and in their communities. This is the first of many projects I am getting involved with this year to promote that kaupapa.”

The Mental Health Foundation hopes to provide tools and events such as Pink Shirt Day to create a New Zealand where all people feel safe, valued and included.

'We all can take responsibility to prevent bullying and promote respectful relationships,” says chief executive Judi Clements.

'Pink Shirt Day is celebrated on only one day per year. We recognise the work needed to prevent bullying must continue throughout the year to make a real difference.”

For more information on Pink Shirt Day visit www.pinkshirtday.org.nz