Really connect with Real Mode
We believe in the awesome power of technology to connect us. But are we really getting closer? Real Mode is a way to pause your digital life and press play on real world connections.
Ways to connect in Real Mode
Give your thumbs a rest and switch on to the people around you with these easy ways of connecting. There’s ideas here for friends, families and solo travellers.
15 minutes
Have a Pea-knuckle war
Clasp fingers firmly into your opponents, line up your thumbs and speak the ancient words:
One, two, three, four,
I declare a pea-knuckle war!
Five, six, seven eight, get those thumbs nice and straight.
Bow, touch….BEGIN!
30 minutes
Host a fashion show
It’s showtime! Trawl through the family's wardrobe to create a catwalk outfit. Those with true style will include household items like lampshades and spatulas as exclusive accessories.
30 minutes
Host a fashion show
It’s showtime! Trawl through the family's wardrobe to create a catwalk outfit. Those with true style will include household items like lampshades and spatulas as exclusive accessories.
60 minutes
Build a fort
You shall not pass! Unless you have cookies. Get creative using brooms as spears, or ironing boards for drawbridges. Whatever it takes to keep siblings and responsibilities out!
Things to know
Real Mode has been designed to help you step away from digital distractions for a while and let you concentrate on getting social in the real world. It works by interrupting your usual habits and making sure you are mindfully scrolling.
You can switch out of Real Mode at any time – You are only ever a few taps away from using your phone as you normally would. Just follow the easy on-screen prompts.
No, Real Mode doesn’t disable any of the functions of your device. It’s here to help you help yourself, not to stop you being contacted. We will simply remind you when you go back to your phone, that you had chosen to step away for a while. We do recommend putting your phone on silent, or turning it to Do Not Disturb mode though, if you don’t want your time in Real Mode to be interrupted.
No, Real Mode doesn’t disable any of the functions of your device. Rather, it helps you make a conscious decision to step away. When you’re in Real Mode, it’s a good idea to keep your phone out of sight to avoid any distracting pop-ups.
Nope, we want to help all of New Zealand to enjoy some time connecting face to face again. Anyone who wants to use Real Mode can. It’s only fair.
We DO NOT collect your data or track anything.
There is no limit to how often you can enter Real Mode. Use it morning, noon and night. Go on, see how long you can do. We dare you!
