Easy Riders Ben & Tom We're Not Here For Love!

- Ellen Mackenze

As The Block NZ stars Ben Speedy and Tom Waalkens lean against a sparkling new motorbike while wearing leather jackets and slicked-back hair, it’s easy to see how the charming Auckland besties have been winning the hearts of New Zealanders on the hit reality reno series.

When we take our Woman’s Day photo shoot down to the city’s waterfront, we’re quickly interrupted by three young female fans wanting photos, a new regular part of Ben and Tom’s day.

“It’s crazy how happy people are to meet us,” says project manager Tom. “I couldn’t quite grasp the concept of that beforehand, but to be able to brighten someone’s day is pretty cool.”

However, the single lads, both 24, admit that could be a downside when it comes to dating after the hit Three show wraps.

“My first question is going to be, ‘Have you watched The Block?’” laughs architectural graduate Ben, whose mum Sandy encouraged the pair to sign up for the reality show. “And if they have, I’ll cancel the date!”