Disability Support & Advocacy

Understanding and accessing disability support in New Zealand can feel complex. You deserve to be heard, supported, and empowered.
This page connects you to essential national organisations dedicated to advocacy, rights protection, and systemic support. These groups work to create a more accessible and inclusive Aotearoa for all. Whether you are seeking guidance, representation, or community action, these are trusted places to start.

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National Advocacy & Rights Protection

Disability Rights Commissioner (Te Kaitiaki Tikangaroa)
Part of the NZ Human Rights Commission, the Disability Rights Commissioner works to promote and protect the rights of all disabled New Zealanders. This is a key office for addressing discrimination and understanding your rights under the law.

• Understand your rights: https://tikatangata.org.nz/disability-rights

People First New Zealand Ngā Tāngata Tuatahi
A national advocacy organisation that is led by and for people with learning (intellectual) disabilities. They work to amplify voices and promote self-advocacy.

• Connect with them: www.peoplefirst.org.nz

DPA (Disabled Persons Assembly)
DPA is a pan-impairment organisation that advocates for the rights of all disabled people in New Zealand. They work at a government level to influence policy and promote the social model of disability.

• Learn about their advocacy: www.dpa.org.nz

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National Support & Service Organisations

Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People
The official government agency responsible for disability policy, funding, and services. This is the primary portal for understanding what support you may be eligible for, including funding and the Enabling Good Lives (EGL) approach.

• Access government support: www.whaikaha.govt.nz

CCS Disability Action
With a long history and a network of local offices, CCS provides a wide range of community-based services, resources, and programmes for disabled people and their families across Aotearoa.

• Find support near you: www.ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz

IHC New Zealand
IHC advocates for the rights, inclusion, and welfare of people with intellectual disabilities and their families. They offer advocacy services, resources, and community programmes.

• Access their services: www.ihc.org.nz

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Accessibility & Systemic Change

Barrier Free NZ Trust
This trust focuses on improving access to the built environment for everyone. They provide fantastic resources and advocacy for universal design and accessible buildings and spaces.

• Learn about accessibility: www.barrierfree.org.nz

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A Quick Note

Inclusive World NZ provides these links to connect you with trusted national organisations. We are not responsible for the content or services on external websites. The inclusion of a link does not signify a full endorsement, and we encourage you to contact organisations directly to find the best support for your needs.

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We Advocate Through Stories

Our mission at Inclusive World NZ is to advocate for inclusion through the power of storytelling. Explore our inclusive books and audiobooks designed to change attitudes and foster a more inclusive generation.

Is there a key national advocacy organisation we should include? Our list is always growing. Please let us know if you have a suggestion.