The No Rubba, no Hubba Hubba campaign was developed to help give young people information and tools to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Campaign materials also discuss wider youth sexual health issues, such as the consequences of having sex. Young people are encouraged to think carefully about sexual decisions, and parents and caregivers encouraged to talk to teenagers about sex and to discuss issues like understanding that sexual relationships involve caring, concern and responsibility. The campaign used a variety of media in its strategy to reach young people:
- Television - The No Rubba, no Hubba Hubba television commercial, developed with the help of young people, is set at a hip hop party, and uses a mixture of animation and ‘real people’. There were two key versions of the advertisement: heterosexual and men who have sex with men (MSM). Two messages, one chlamydia and gonorrhea focused and one HIV focused rotated between the two versions. Te reo Mâori versions of the advertisements were also developed
- Radio - Radio advertising featured on mainstream radio stations and some campaign-related discussion occurred on talk back radio.
- Print Materials - A No Rubba No Hubba Hubba booklet was developed, as well as a series of information sheets that covered such topics as why use a condom, STI tests, chlamydia , gonorrhea, genital herpes, genital warts, HIV/AIDS, where to get help , and how to 'spot the excuses.'
- Events - The campaign was promoted at numerous events around the country including the Edgefest (in 4 locations), outdoor cinema events in Waitakere and Manukau, and Matatini as well as orientation at tertiary education institutions. At the events resources were given away including brochures, and condoms and lube in reusable mobile phone holders.
- The No Rubba No Hubba Hubba website - contains information about STIs and the campaign materials - print, radio and television - may be download from. In addition, a Flash animated game - the Hubba Challenge may also be downloaded.
An adult resource was also developed and made available through health providers. This resource was for all adults, but in particular for Mâori and Pacific parents.
Sexual health, Youth
According to the New Zealand Ministry of Health, 74 of the 2327 cases of chlamydia in females diagnosed at sexual health clinics in 2003 were in those aged under 15, while 1063 cases were diagnosed in females 15 to 19.11. New Zealand has a high number of unintended or unwanted pregnancies. A study reported that out of its participants, 60 percent of pregnancies to women aged under 25 were unintended. New Zealand has a comparatively high rate of births to teenagers (27.3 per 1,000 women aged 15 to 19). Rates of chlamydia and gonorrhoea have increased significantly.
The No Rubba, No Hubba Hubba advertisement won the category for Best 2D Animation For A TV Commercial Over US$15,000 at the Asia Image Apollo Awards 2005 in Singapore.