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Mother's Day is coming up. To all the amazing Mother's in our community - Happy Mother’s Day 💛
Mother's Day is a celebration of you—the strength you carry, the patience you show, and the love you give so freely every single day.
Please remember that doing your best is more than enough, and you are doing an incredible job. 🌷
Thank you Indika for sharing your Mother's Day artwork with us. I am sure Asoka will be so happy to receive this from you! |
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Attending For A Just Society
Denise attended this conference on-line and heard Marilyn Waring who shared on insights into the fear and paralysis that grips so many when confronted with change, confining them to repeating the same tired old behaviors and rhetoric. She also spoke to the topic of GDP (Gross Domestic Profit) and emphasized that that unpaid work, disproportionately performed by women, supports the functioning of the economy but is not recognised as being essential to economic and social functioning.
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Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) Virtual Reality Simulation
On 21 April, we hosted Amy Harpur of Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) and Wing Yiu (Yoyo) Ma from Canterbury University who are working on research about evacuating disabled people in fire emergencies. Seen here in the picture, is one of the participants using the Virtual Reality simulation with Amy and Yoyo, measuring reactions. We hope that the research leads to positive emergency management for disabled people.
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| Learning Across Borders |
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We had the opportunity to meet with two exchange students from Laos, Mardam and Kham, alongside Abdulla from Yes Disability Action.
It was a humbling experience to meet two individuals so committed to supporting their community. They are working to help people understand their rights as disabled citizens and have travelled to New Zealand to learn how we support disabled people and their families to exercise those rights.
In Laos, there are limited avenues to lobby government or local politicians, so their efforts will begin at the grassroots level—within their own communities, much like the approach of Enabling Good Lives.
While New Zealand has made significant progress in implementing the policies outlined in the UNCRPD, there is still more to be done. Perhaps over the coming months, we can take this opportunity to further support the voices of disabled people and their families, promoting inclusion and meaningful participation in the everyday aspects of life that many take for granted.
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Kāinga Kōrero: Next Steps to a Flat
Kainga Korero was brilliant. Ainsley from Flying Kites and Tessa from Habitat answered so many great questions and we learnt a lot from each other too. Habitat for Humanity will meet you to visit a flat and give you a lovely winter warming care package. Ainsley gave us encouragement through different ways of finding the right people to live with, we just have to work out what we will have to compromise. If you missed it, there will be a video of the presentation on our website in a couple of weeks plus some more learnings on our Facebook page too.
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Disability Connect Seminars and Workshops
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Understanding Disability Supports In The Community
Join us for a presentation by Work and Income Health and Disability Coordinators and Kaikaranga (Formerly Taikura Trust)
📅 Monday, 11 May
🕒 10am - 12:45pm
📍Glen Eden Community House, 13 Pisces Road, Glen Eden
Click here for more information.
To register, please email: admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz
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| Planning for Adulthood |
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📅 Wednesday, 29 July
🕘 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Learn about Welfare Guardianship, Power of Attorney, Property Management, Estate Planning, Wills and how a Trust may be useful.
To register, email admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz
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| Education Legal Issues |
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📅 Tuesday, 4 August
🕘 6:30pm - 9:00pm
Learn about enrolment rights, decision processes around special education, processes around an ORS funding decline, requests to parents for teacher aide funding contributions, requests to parents for funding for student support at extra-curricular camps and activities, stand-downs, use of restraint, and much more.
To register, email: admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz |
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Disability Connect Support Groups
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| Zoom Parents Support Group |
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Zoom Parents Support Group
📅 Every Monday
🕘 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Open to anyone seeking advice or support for parenting, upcoming Needs Assessments or anything in-between the Zoom Support Group is for you! |
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| Parent Support Group |
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📅Wednesday, 13 May
🕘6.30 pm-8.30 pm
Topic: Keeping Wellness Balanced
Location: Mt Richmond Specialist School, 30 Albion Rd, Ōtāhuhu
Click for a copy of the flyer
To register, email us at: admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz |
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| Chinese Family Disability Support Group |
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📅Thursday, 21 May
🕘10:00am - 1:00 pm
Topic: Mother's Day Event: Paper Quilling Art Workshop
Presenter: Lili Wang
Location: Anchorage Park Community House, 16 Swan Crescent, Pakuranga.
Click for a copy of the flyer
To register, email us at: admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz |
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- The CCS Library is available to everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand; it isn’t just for CCS Disability Action members or disabled people. It provides a range of resources free of charge. You can visit the accessible library in person (Dunedin), search the catalogue online and have resources mailed to you, or ask the librarian to research for you. Visit their website to find out more: Library — CCS Disability Action
- The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard is a globally recognised symbol designed to help individuals with hidden disabilities discretely communicate their needs. To get one:
- You can order online for official ones from the HD Sunflower website, they arrive in 7 to 10 business days (two weeks).
- If you are travelling through New Zealand, you may be able to request a free lanyard from the Airport. Contact your local Airport for more information. For Auckland you can find out more here: Hidden Disabilities | Auckland Airport
- Westfield Malls are now proud participants in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme and have free Sunflower lanyards available in their centres across New Zealand. Visit the friendly conceirge team to find out where you can get one.
- Stats NZ is pleased to release An overview of disability data in Aotearoa New Zealand, a new report developed to make it easier to find, understand, and use disability data in Aotearoa New Zealand. It includes an overview of key disability data sources, important indicators, and guidance on how to use them. It is based entirely on publicly available data from a selection of key population surveys as at 1 January 2026. Visit the Stats NZ website and read the full report and summary: An overview of disability data in Aotearoa New Zealand | Stats NZ
- Access Matters Aotearoa have released their Kōrero for Change - Insights and Actions Report. This discusses the access barriers experienced across key sectors and explore opportunities for change. Read the report here: Kōrero for Change - Insights and Actions - Access Matters Aotearoa
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Free Healthy Cooking Workshop
Cath will host a free community session sharing easy, healthy recipes and introducing a new website designed to support people with accessible cooking resources. With several years of experience delivering workshops for people with intellectual disabilities, Cath brings practical knowledge and a passion for making healthy eating more inclusive.
📅 Wednesday, 6 May
🕙 10:00am – 11:00am
📍 YMCA North Shore Recreation Centre, 5 Akoranga Drive, Northcote, Auckland
💲 Free (registration essential)
To attend, visit www.cathskitchen.co.nz to register.
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Growing Stronger Together
Parent & Caregiver Workshops
Health NZ, The Asian Network & Kahui Tu Kaha are offering Parent & Caregiver workshops to support parents and caregivers of children aged 5-12 to better understand children's emotions and needs. Especially for families experiencing health or wellbeing challenges.
Somali-speaking session: Friday 8 May, 10am–12:30pm at Rakiraki Room, Wesley Community Centre, Mt Roskill
Mandarin-speaking session: Saturday 9 May, 10:30am–1pm at Athol Syms Community Centre, Epsom
To register, complete the form here, or call 0800 88 88 30.
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New Diagnosis, What Now?
Care Matters Workshop – Online (North Island)
Supporting someone who has recently received a diagnosis can bring a mix of emotions, questions, and uncertainty. This free Care Matters workshop creates a supportive space to connect with others, and explore what might help next.
Designed for family, whānau, and carers of children and adults with disabilities, the online workshop is led by facilitators with lived experience.
This online session is designed for those living in the North Island.
🗓️ 19 May 2026
🕒 7pm - 8pm
📍 Online via Zoom
For more information or to register, visit their website here: New Diagnosis, What Now - Care Matters Workshop - Online - North Island - Care Matters
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FASD-CAN Events in May/June
FASD-CAN are offering several events in May & June for caregivers and families.
Finding Calm in the Storm - He Maonga Āwhā
Two day intensive workshop - specifically designed for family and carers navigating child and adolescent violence and abuse (CAPVA). Location: Auckland Central.
Date: 26 & 27 May.
Click here to find out more and fill in your expression of interest.
The Gut-Brain Connection Part 1: Bowel issues
Lisa Smith (BSc RGN RSCN), who runs her own Children’s Continence Clinic in Napier and has lived experience through a 28 year-old son who has FASD, ADHD and an ID (intellectual disability) will share around management of constipation and keeping bowels healthy, while talking about the gut-brain connection.
Date: June 10, 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm. Online.
Click here to find out more and register.
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Supporting And Including Neurodivergent People In Our School, Work, Activities And In Our Community
You are invited to a session exploring autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other common neurodivergent conditions. Attendees will gain practical ideas to better support and include neurodivergent youth and adults in their communities.
The evening also features lived experiences and helpful tips from neurodivergent individuals and families, along with time for open questions and discussion.
🗓️ Thursday, 28 May
🕒 7pm - 9pm
📍 Bayview Community Center, 72 Bayview road, Bayview
Cost: $10 per person or $20 per family.
To register, email: info@childandfamilycounselling.co.nz
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2026 Online Whānau Workshop - Switch Access & Switch-Adapted Technology
ATANZ is excited to host a 3 hour online workshop for whānau, caregivers and their direct support teams. This session focuses on practical, home-based strategies to empower your Tamariki or Rangatahi through switch-adapted technology.
Presenter: Jacki Mayne-Davis.
🗓️ 31 July 2026
🕒 10:30am-2:00pm
📍 Online via Zoom
Cost: $35 per person
For more information or to register online, visit the ATANZ website here: 2026-Online Whānau Workshop - Switch Access and Switch-Adapted Technology-Workshops
Flyer here. Any questions please contact: events@atanz.org.nz
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Continence NZ - Education Day
Continence NZ invites professionals working in nursing, medicine, physiotherapy, allied health, primary care, or disability support to attend its 2026 Education Day. This full-day event features expert-led sessions focused on practical knowledge, current approaches, and improving patient outcomes.
Lunch and refreshments are included, and attendees will receive a digital Certificate of Attendance.
Event Details
📅 19 September 2026
🕘 AGM: 9:00 am | Education sessions: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
📍 Paataka 1 Room, Novotel Auckland Airport
Visit their website for more information or to register: Continence NZ Education Day 2026
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| NZSL Week 2026 - Anyone Can Sign, Anywhere |
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NZSL Week 2026 marks 20 years since NZSL was recognised as an official language of Aotearoa. Running from Monday 4 May to Sunday 10 May 2026, this year’s theme is An Aotearoa Where Anyone Can Sign, Anywhere.
Click here for more information and to find out about upcoming events: What’s on? – New Zealand Sign Language |
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Accessible Changing Facility Opens at Waihī Beach
Waihī Beach has welcomed a new accessible changing facility, making the beach more inclusive for people with complex needs. Features include a ceiling hoist, adult-sized changing table, and accessible shower and toilet.
The project highlights the power of community collaboration and supports greater access for everyone to enjoy the beach.
Read full article here: SunLive - Accessible changing facility opens at Waihī Beach - The Bay's News First
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| Disability Sport Auckland Term 2 Registrations Now Open |
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There is still time to register for the Term 2 programmes offered by Disability Sport Auckland. With a huge range of activities running six days a week, there's something for everyone.
Visit their website for more information: Sports — Disability Sport Auckland |
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| IHC Art Awards |
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The IHC Art Awards celebrate the talent and achievements of artists with an intellectual disability or intellectual disability and autism.
Open to artists across New Zealand aged 13 and over.
Entries open now and close 31 May 2026.
Visit the website for more information: IHC Art Awards |
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Laughter Yoga At The D*List
Free drop-in Laughter Yoga sessions every Wednesday in May and June!
Laughter yoga is a practice designed to cultivate joy, reconnect participants with their inner child, and help release the stresses of daily life. Certified Laughter Yoga leader Geo uses laughter as a healing tool to support connection with joy.
Despite the name, there are no poses or stretching involved—sessions focus on deep breathing techniques and intentional, hearty laughter.
📅 Wednesday, 6 May - Wednesday, 24 June
🕘 7pm - 8pm
📍 The D*List Community Hub, 322 New North Road Kingsland
For more information or to register, visit their website: Laughter Yoga | The D*List
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I.Lead Showcase Day
Disabled young people aged 16–30 are invited to attend the upcoming I.Lead Showcase Day in Auckland:
🗓️ Thursday, 14 May
🕘 10am - 3pm
This event will highlight I.Lead’s work, including its programmes, committees, and youth panels.
Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with others, explore leadership pathways, and share ideas for improving accessibility in their communities.
To learn more and register, visit: https://www.ilead.org.nz/i-lead-showcase-days-2026
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The D*List - Collaboration With The Auckland Writers Festival
The D*List invites you to two events:
Wrong Readers Club, part of the festival’s STREETSIDE series: The event challenges what counts as reading, with live storytelling from disabled writers.
📅 Friday, 8 May
🕘 6pm
📍Hayman Building Lobby (13 Galway St)
A curated bookshelf at Kōrero Corner will also showcase disabled authors, hosted in a cosy space
📅 15 - 17 May
📍Level 5 of Aotea Centre
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Inclusive Theatre Production - The Village of Twelve Nights
Want to experience inclusive theatre in action?
The Village of Twelve Nights is an original play with music created and performed by an all-disabled cast from Glass Ceiling Arts Collective.
This joyful and thought-provoking story follows a village preparing for a royal coronation, until the animals leave in protest, turning celebration into chaos and leading the community towards understanding and coexistence.
📅 21 to 23 May with both daytime and evening shows available
📍 Freemans Bay Community Centre
🎟️ Tickets: https://www.glassceilingartscollective.com/events/the-village-of-12-nights
Group bookings welcome. Support workers attend free.
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Pasifika Autism Support Group
A Journey of Hope
The Pasifika Autism Support Group (PASG) is a safe, welcoming space for Pasifika parents and carers to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Next Date: Saturday 23rd May 2026, 10 am-1 pm.
Location: Sommerville School, 80a Tripoli Road, Panmure
For more information: www.asdpasifika.org.nz
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Do you need funding to improve accessibility, upgrade your bathroom or kitchen, or simply make your home more comfortable?
SWIFT Mortgages Ltd has informed us that some banks may offer a loan of up to $50,000, with a special rate of 2.50% fixed for 3 years for upgrades that improve accessibility. For more information contact SWIFT Mortgages Ltd.
📞 09 215 8807
✉️ info@swiftmortgages.co.nz
🌐 www.swiftmortgages.co.nz
Lending criteria, bank terms and conditions apply |
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Latest Disability Podcasts And Vidcasts
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Advisory Group Opportunities
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Your Voice Matters
Make your voices count - participate in important research and surveys:
- Characteristics of Effective Primary and Community
Healthcare for Taangata Whaikaha Maaori Maamaa
and Peepi: A Ministry of Health funded research project is seeking Maaori maamaa who are taangata whaikaha (including those who are hapuu), as well as those with tamariki aged 0–5 who are taangata whaikaha, to share their experiences. Click here for a copy of their flyer. More details on our website. If maama are interested in participating, they can contact Tori or Tania to register their interest. Their details are below: - Improving the Accessibility of New Zealand National Parks: Share your experience and perceptions of the accessibility of national parks in Aotearoa New Zealand. Flyer here. Survey link: Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management
- Improving Accessible Supermarket Experience: Share your experience in a short survey to help improve supermarket accessiblity for diasabled people and whānau. More information about the survey on our website. Survey link: Disability & Everyday Accessibility Survey
Petitions:
To have your say, you can also write to your local MP or email us at: admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz |
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Great information on our website!
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Disability Connect can now receive online donations via credit card. We appreciate any donation from you! |
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