Out and About in the Community - Engaging with Families with Cultural Sensitivity

Last week, Asoka and Jessica attended Oaklynn Special School’s Whānau Day, continuing a long-standing Disability Connect tradition. Oaklynn Special School has a vibrant, multi-ethnic student community, and the school works closely with families to provide hands-on support tailored to each student’s disability-specific needs. This event continues to grow bigger and better each year.

Pictured is Asoka with Lauina, mother of an 11-year-old student at Oaklynn Special School. Their conversation flowed easily, and Lauina shared that her name in Samoan represents strength, leadership, and community service—an apt description of this wonderfully resilient mum.

It is always a pleasure to be part of Whānau Day. A big thank you to the Oaklynn Special School principal and staff for including Disability Connect in this community event and for their warm hospitality.

Woe to Go - Work and Income Explainer

Over 60 families were pleased to have the opportunity to get answers to their Work and Income questions at Disability Connect's "Woe to Go" with Sonja Eriksen, Principal Disability Advisor from the Ministry of Social Development last Thursday evening. Topics included disability benefits, eligibility criteria, making a complaint, and what to do if declined.

We are unable to record these sessions or share notes, but will provide a summary of key questions and responses soon through our Facebook page and on our website. Stay tuned for another Woe to Go later this year.

Parent Support Group and Chinese Family Disability Support Group

Parent Support Group: 

Our first term activities have ranged from a Valentine’s Day themed social gathering to a session that empowered parents to treat themselves with more kindness, recognising the value they bring to their children. Make sure you join us for the next session, where we’ll be having a group music therapy session. Details are listed below

Chinese Family Disability Support Group: 

In March, we came together for a deeply meaningful workshop, “Nourishing Our Nervous System: Self-Care for Caregivers.” Many families resonated with the idea that caring for a child with disabilities can carry invisible layers of trauma and disenfranchised grief—feelings that are often unspoken and unseen. Through the lens of Polyvagal Theory, parents began to understand how their nervous systems shape their emotions, fatigue, and responses to stress.

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing speaker, Lee Tempest from VisAble, whose thoughtful and compassionate sharing created a safe and supportive space for learning and reflection.

What stood out most was the response from families. Many shared that the strategies felt practical and empowering—something they could gently bring into their daily lives. Some expressed their intention to practise these tools regularly, and even to pass them on to their children, including siblings.

In a community where conversations like this are still rare, it was especially meaningful to see so many Chinese families come together, learn, and feel seen.

Preparing for our Transition Expo - Wednesday 9 September

Preparations are well underway for our annual Transition Expo in September.

For stallholders or anyone interested in having a stall this year: Registration forms have been sent out - make sure you complete your registration form as soon as possible to secure your place!  If you were expecting a registration form, but haven't received one - please check your junk mail or contact us at admin@disabilityconnect.org.nz  

For our community: Save the date—9 September 2026! 

Visit our website for more information: Annual Transition Expo - Wednesday 9 September 2026 | Disability Connect

Disability Support Services - Upcoming Changes April 2026

From 1 April 2026, people who use flexible funding through DSS will have more choice and control over how they use their funding for disability-related supports.

From 1 April:

• People’s allocated budgets for flexible funding will stay the same as they are now
• The purchasing rules for flexible funding will be removed
• Flexible funding must still be used in line with its purpose set out in people’s plans
• A small number of items will remain prohibited or require pre-approval
• There will be more support for people to plan and manage their flexible funding.
• People who already receive flexible funding don’t need to do anything to get ready for these changes.

These April changes build on earlier improvements to Disability Support Services, including the nationally consistent assessment approach introduced in February 2026, and reflect feedback from the disability community.

For more information about the April flexible funding changes, visit the DSS website: Flexible funding changes | Disability Support Services

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

Access Activator

The Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha, in partnership with Creative HQ, is seeking applications from across New Zealand for the Access Activator pilot programme.

Ideas should improve access for Deaf and disabled people, Turi Māori, tāngata whaikaha Māori and their whānau. Transport, digital services, the built environment and emergency management are key areas of focus.

Successful applicants will be supported and mentored, helping to bring their ideas to fruition so that they can be implemented.  For more information, visit their website: Access Activator | Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People

Upcoming Workshops

Altogether Autism have a number of webinars scheduled for March.  Visit their website for more information and to register:

• Kids Do Well If They Can: Discusses how parents, whanau and educators can support the growth of young Autistics.  Monday, 23 March at 12:30pm
• Brain Body & Behaviour: This webinar offers insigths into the biology behind the behaviour.  Wednesday, 25 March at 12:30pm
• An Introduction To Autistic Capacity: Learn about everyday factors that can impact an Autistic person's ability to engage and cope. Tuesday, 31 March at 9:30am

I.Drive Licensing Program

Are you a disabled person living in Auckland and keen to get your Learner’s Licence? I.Drive could be for you!

Run by YES Disability Resource Centre, the I.Drive Licensing Program is an interactive, comprehensive theory-based workshop designed to support you to achieve your licence.

Upcoming sessions:

📅9 and 10 April
🕘 10am - 2pm
📍 Mana Inc - 32 Beach Rd, Pahurehure

Registration is essential – no walk-ins accepted.

Visit the website for more information: I.Drive Licensing Program – I.Lead or register here: I.Drive 2026 Registration Form – I.Lead

Inclusion & De-Escalation

Free NATINA Workshop

Supporting neurodivergent learners through a relational neuroscience, trauma-informed, hauora lens.

Who should attend? ESWs, TAs, SENCOs & kaiako (teachers) supporting tamariki in ECE & schools, youth workers & support staff

🗓️ 16 April
🕒 19:30am - 1:00pm
📍 Fruitvale School, New Lynn

Register here: Inclusion & De-escalation Workshop Registration - 16th April 2026

Online "Hot Topics" Hui with Carers New Zealand

Many people in the community support loved ones through their caring journey. While this role can be deeply meaningful, it’s important that carers also feel supported and connected.

The Disabilities Resource Centre, Whakatane, is hosting an online “Hot Topics” hui with Carers New Zealand, offering practical tools, resources, and ideas to support carers. Topics include micro-resets for when you are feeling overwhelmed, asking for help, planning for the future, and tools and resources available.

🗓️ Wednesday 22 April
🕒 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
📍 Online

To register, contact 0800 227 363 or email information@drct.co.nz

Kids Day Out Variety Show - Free Tickets

We have a limited number of complimentary tickets for the Kids Day Out Variety Show (2026 Magic Show).

Three sessions available:

🗓️ Saturday, 4 April, 2pm, Birkenhead College

🗓️ Saturday, 4 April, 6pm, Birkenhead College

🗓️ Sunday, 5 April, 2pm, Saint Kentigern College

To request tickets, please complete the online form here.

You will be notified by email if you have been allocated a ticket.

Tickets must be picked up from 3b Olive Rd, Penrose during office hours. We do not post tickets out to families.

Care Management App for NZ Families Managing Complex Care For A Loved One - Less Admin. Better Care.

Looking after a loved one with special needs or in need of support shouldn't mean juggling chat threads, sticky notes, calendars, and spreadsheets. DeweCare is a New Zealand-built, all-in-one care management platform that brings everything into one place —schedule and cover shifts with a colour-coded calendar, approve hours worked, review handover notes, centralise messaging, manage budgets, and keep the entire care team in sync.

Built-in care analytics, detailed profiles for each care recipient, and AI assistance help reveal trends in behaviour and well-being, helping families make better support decisions and track the impact of treatments over time. Designed for families and caregiving agencies alike, DeweCare includes a mobile-friendly app with role-based access for caregivers, administrators, and family members.

Start with a 30-day free trial at www.dewecare.com — no setup fees or long-term commitments.

Phab's Side By Side Club

PHAB is delighted to introduce their new Side by Side Club, created for individuals with very high or complex intellectual and/or physical support needs. This weekly club offers a calm, welcoming, and sensory-informed space where members can feel safe, supported, and truly at ease.

Sessions are flexible and low-demand, with no pressure to participate—members are free to relax, observe, explore, or leave early if needed. Activities may include sensory play, music, gentle movement, and creative experiences, with quiet spaces available throughout. Participants attend alongside a carer or support person, helping create a supportive and understanding environment for everyone.

📍The PHAB Building, 8 Auburn Street, Takapuna
🗓️Mondays, 1:00pm–3:00pm
🎟️$18.40
Members attend with a carer or support worker

Sign up here.

Relaxed Sessions & Performances: Sharks Exhibition + Swimming with Sharks Theatre Show

The Auckland Museum is offering relaxed sessions for the Sharks exhibition alongside relaxed performances of the 20-minute theatre show Swimming with Sharks on: 

🗓️ Sunday 12 April (morning)

Visitors can enjoy both experiences back-to-back.

Sharks: Relaxed Sessions

Dive into the world of Sharks in a family-friendly exhibition revealing the fascinating world of these ocean predators.  

At the Relaxed Sessions, you can experience Sharks at your own pace and in your own way.  These sessions provide a calmer environment with fewer visitors.

Swimming with Sharks: Relaxed Performances

Dive into an immersive theatrical journey with sharks, from the prehistoric past to today.  

The Relaxed Performances have a reduced audience size, pre-visit information, and a Relaxed Welcome.

Illuminate Market

Illuminate Market is back for 2026, celebrating the strengths and talents of young people in a vibrant, inclusive community event. Each year, it reimagines inclusion and showcases what’s possible.

Bring your whānau and friends for market stalls, delicious kai, creative workshops and live performances.

🗓️ Saturday 28 March 2026 
🕒 4pm–8pm
📍 Mt Albert War Memorial Hall & Reserve
🎟️ Free entry – all welcome

Fashion for a Cause: Op Shop Evening at Māpura Studios

Get ready for a fun night of fashion and community spirit at Fashion for a Cause 

🗓️ Thursday, 16 April
🕒 6:30–8:30 pm.

This special op shop event offers a chance to discover second-hand treasures while supporting a great cause.

Tickets are $25 and include a welcome drink, nibbles, and a goodie bag. 

Hosted by Māpura Studios, the evening supports their mission of making the arts accessible and life-changing for all.

Guests are welcome to bring pre-loved clothing donations to share.

To RSVP, email info@mapurastudios.org.nz for payment details.

Teen Test Squad Wanted For New Library Activity

East Coast Bays Library is trialling a new interactive storytelling session that combines engaging stories with individual sensory story bins, allowing participants to play along as the story unfolds. 

This is your chance to try something new and help shape future disability-friendly activities.

The sessions are accessible and there is space for up to 10 participants. Trial session times are:

• Wednesday 22 April, 11:00–11:30am
• Thursday 30 April, 2:30–3:00pm
• Friday 8 May, 2:00–3:30pm

Bookings are essential to ensure the best experience for everyone.

To find out more or reserve a place, contact Chrissy at chrissy.west@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

IHC Library - Bookmark Competition

IHC are inviting rangatahi aged up to 21 with an intellectual disability or autism are invited to take part in a creative bookmark design competition.

With a nature theme, the competition offers a range of prizes, and four winning designs will be printed as official library bookmarks.

Entries close on 26 April.

For more information, visit the IHC website: Design a bookmark competition

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

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

Auckland Council's Annual Plan 2026/2027

Have Your Say

Have your say on Auckland Council's annual plan

Each year Auckland Council sets out what they plan to do in the year ahead. This is called the Annual Plan.

The council’s proposed Annual Plan 2026/2027 is out now for all Aucklanders’ input. This is your opportunity to give feedback on their proposals and help them make decisions for Auckland.

Flexible and Accessible participation:

Alongside translations into NZSL, Easy Read, large print and braille, Aucklanders can now:

• request a one-to-one call with an engagement specialist at a time that suits you and go through giving feedback at you own pace.

• join an online drop-in session to ask questions and get step-by-step help.

• attend low sensory drop-in sessions at libraries. A calmer session with fewer distractions where you can go at your own pace with help from staff.

• share your ​views by recording audio or video instead of writing.

• play the Pick your priorities game, where you can show us what you would like us to do more of over the next ten years. Great alternative to open ended questions.

Click here for the flyer.  You can also find more information at: How to have your say | Annual Plan 2026/2027 and akhaveyoursay.nz/ourplan

Whangarei Accessible Housing Trust : Help us to help you

The Whangarei Accessible Housing Trust has been housing people aged under 65 with physical disabilities in affordable, accessible homes in Whangarei and Auckland for 20 years.

The Government is currently rolling out funding to build new social housing, and the Trust is preparing an application. As part of this process, it is seeking community support to gather up-to-date and relevant data to strengthen its application. This information will help improve the chances of securing funding for accessible housing across the region, from the Far North to Auckland.

The Trust is looking to better understand:

• Which areas have the greatest need for new housing
• The sizes of homes required
• The level of disability among those in need, which can significantly limit other housing options

Community members can support this initiative by completing a short survey:  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z3CT285

Share Your Expertise to Support Aotearoa Whānau: CPVA Professionals Survey Now Open

Professionals across Aotearoa New Zealand are invited to contribute to a survey exploring Child-to-Parent Violence and Abuse (CPVA)—an often hidden and misunderstood issue affecting families and whānau.

CPVA involves children (under 18 or adult children) using violence or abusive behaviour toward parents, caregivers, grandparents, or siblings. Families experiencing CPVA frequently feel isolated, ashamed, and unsure where to seek support.

Insights from professionals will help highlight the impact of CPVA, identify service gaps and challenges, and inform policy, training, and advocacy. Findings will contribute to a publicly available report supporting stronger responses to CPVA.

Survey details

Open: 2 March – 13 April 2026

Confidential and secure
No personal information collected

Take the survey: Child-to-Parent Violence and Abuse (CPVA) – Professional Perspectives Survey (Page 1 of 7)

Readers are also encouraged to share the survey with relevant networks to help gather a wide range of professional perspectives across Aotearoa.

Family Survey On Experiences Accessing Speech Language Therapy In NZ And Around The World

Have you tried to access Speech Language Therapy for your child while living in another country? Share your experience using the survey: https://massey.au1.qualtrics.c...

This survey will help therapists and organisations better support mobile children and families.