Real-life Batman dedicates time to spread joy in NZ

One of the world’s greatest super-heroes is alive and well in South Auckland, and spreading happiness by visiting sick children in his spare time.

The “caped crusader” is an anonymous Aucklander who has dedicated the past six years to his Batman persona, in between running a family dairy heavily decorated with superhero collectibles.

“The smallest gift can brighten up the darkest day. People often underestimate the power that a small act of kindness can bring. To put a smile on a child’s face is the meaning of a true superhero whether they wear a mask or not,” said Batman.

The idea came when the father of two dressed up as a super hero for his son’s birthday to save money, and he received a joyous response from the party-goers.

His Facebook page, ‘Random Acts of Batman’ regularly updates its audiences with his latest missions. One post stated, “mission alert … call coming in from Make a Wish - six-year-old in Starship in need of a pick-me-up … mission accepted.”

Batman has been described as “one in a million” by children’s charities, randomly handing out free Batman giveaways, creating personalised bat-gifts and attending fundraisers throughout Auckland.

“He’s made a massive difference to so many children. He does amazing work and is very selfless. It is about putting smiles on faces for these children who have a critical medical condition,” said Debbie Hoskins, medical outreach manager at Make-A-Wish.

Pauline Russell-Green said he’s had a huge impact on her grandson’s life, a 10-year-old who has a brain tumour.

“Batman is amazing, and doesn’t want any recognition. He’s helped us through a very bumpy journey with Jayden, and [Batman] has that element of magic. He goes over and beyond every single time, just to bring hope,” said Ms Russell-Green.

Jayden carries a bravery medal, that Batman gifted him, every time he goes to the Starship Hospital for treatment.  He has also adopted the character of Robin, the boy wonder side-kick, and accompanies Batman on some missions.

Batman drives a highly accessorised ‘bat-mobile’ and ‘bat-bike’, and travelling long distances don’t deter him. Recently, he drove three hours to drop off personalised birthday presents to a boy with leukaemia and another child with Down syndrome.

Ms Russell-Green said it was unbelievable what it must cost him to complete his missions.

Said Batman, “Life is full of surprises, some good, some bad. I try to focus on the good ones. I’ll do this for as long as I can. I’m a big kid at heart. Why be normal?” ­