Testicular Cancer NZ unveils world first ‘Auto Ball Checker’ via FCB

Testicular Cancer New Zealand and FCB have launched the ‘Testimatic’, the world’s first ‘Auto Ball Checker’ – a device that allows men to have their testicles checked for irregularities and lumps without the awkwardness of being face-to-face with a doctor.

Men step up to the Testimatic, pull the curtain, drop their pants and wait for a urologist or GP to reach through the small opening to check their testicles. The whole process only takes 30 seconds. 

Launched at Big Boys Toys expo in Auckland earlier this month, the Testimatic was the ultimate ‘hands on’ activation to grab men’s attention. Other exhibitors launched fast cars, barbeques and speed boats at the expo – making it the right target audience.

FCB executive creative director Tony Clewett says the aim was to come up with a concept that was quirky enough to work as a conversation starter, while giving the team the opportunity to explain the importance of self-checking regularly.

“We then used the uniqueness of the ‘Testimatic’ to gain the attention of media. Journalists from overseas were even calling, to find out if the machine was legitimate. This gave us the opportunity to spread our messaging worldwide.”

The story gained coverage throughout New Zealand media outlets including: Seven Sharp, The Project, The AM Show, NZ Herald, Stuff and several radio stations. Global media hits included Metro UK, The Guardian (Australia and UK), the BBC and ABC news shows.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer affecting New Zealand men aged between 15-39 and is one of the most treatable cancers if detected early, with a survival rates of 95 percent. Despite this, Testicular Cancer NZ chief executive Graeme Woodside says most Kiwi men aren’t self-checking regularly.

“We see the Testimatic as a great way to get men thinking about a serious health concern. The message we’re trying to spread is that you don’t actually need to go to your doctor, you can check your own testicles and make it part of a monthly routine, for example in the shower. If there’s anything you’re concerned about, don’t wait, go and see your GP.” 

The Testimatic will be popping up at events, festivals and shows around New Zealand too reach as many men as possible – encouraging them to make self-checking their testicles a monthly routine.

Testicular Cancer NZ has made a name for itself in recent years with its quirky awareness campaigns. In 2017, it launched the ‘Go Balls Out’ campaign, challenging Kiwis to run or walk in the pattern of giant penis and testicles.