Disability Connect

17/02/2026

As a parent‑led disability information service, we hear the stories behind the statistics.

Our South Auckland communities have always known that the challenges disabled people and their families face run far deeper than what government indicators capture.

Historic under‑reporting, constant movement between temporary living situations, fear of engaging with agencies, limited access to services, and a lack of clear, trusted information all widen the gap between official data and lived reality.

For people with intellectual disability - and for the families, whānau, and support networks who hold them up - the numbers only ever tell a fraction of the story.

We think of a 22‑year‑old Samoan man we know with an intellectual disability. He moved through six different suburbs across Auckland in just five years: Helensville, Orewa, Clover Park, Botany, Avondale and Papakura.

His life has been reduced to couch surfing and short‑term lodges, often alongside men nearly three times his age. That's not a foundation for identity, belonging, or wellbeing. It's not how any young person should be expected to grow, thrive, or feel part of a community.

At Disability Connect, we envision a world where disabled people and their families can live the lives they choose - with dignity, stability, and real opportunities to flourish. We remain committed to leading and influencing positive change so that stories like his become the exception, not the norm.

For more information on the research report, From Data to Dignity 2026 - Health and wellbeing indicators for New Zealanders with intellectual disability, go to the IHC website:

IHC’s research report reveals people with intellectual disabilities are experiencing poor outcomes in most areas of life.

11/02/2026

We've been asking Disability Support Services for clarification and answers to the questions you asked in our post earlier this month.

Know that we stand with you and will continue to ask for certainty so we can all plan.

We hope to have an update for you in our next e-newsletter - https://disabilityconnect.org.nz/subscribe-to-our-newsletter/

If you have further issues to raise, please leave a note in the comments. We're advocating for your concerns directly with DSS.

Image description: graphic image of the backs of two bears hugging each other from the side, with the text 'Standing with you' below.

07/02/2026

Do you thrive on building relationships, supporting families, and strengthening community connections? Then you might be our next Cultural Disability and Information Advisor!

We’re looking for a compassionate, culturally aware individual to join our family-first, fun team.

This is a part-time role, perfect for someone who understands the disability world personally or professionally.

The role focuses on providing culturally and religiously appropriate information, guidance, navigation, and support to families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds who may be struggling with the complexities of the disability system.

Experience working with families of disabled children or young people is essential.

For more information, check out the job ad on Seek - applications close on 11 February: https://www.seek.co.nz/job/89596575

Image description: Graphic with text "We’re hiring! Cultural Disability and Information Advisor. Penrose, Auckland (hybrid). Apply Now." A side panel shows the back of a woman wearing a dark blue hoodie with the Disability Connect logo in white, with another person’s arm wrapped around them, also wearing a matching hoodie.

05/02/2026

If you care for a disabled family member, join us for an in-person feedback session on the new draft Carers’ Strategy Action Plan. We're hosting this at our offices in Penrose at 11am on Thursday 12 February.

During the workshop, we’ll discuss the draft plan and its three priority areas:

1. Recognition and Appreciation: Carers are valued and the support they require is recognised and protected
2. Health and Wellbeing: Health and wellbeing outcomes are equitable between carers and non-carers
3. Financial Security: More responsive financial supports and improved educational and employment pathways to enable carers to meet their needs and plan for the future

We’ll gather your feedback and use it to develop a family-focused submission to the Ministry of Social Development.

This session gives you a chance to share your experiences and influence how the Government supports carers in our community. We strongly encourage you to take part.

For more information, including how to register, visit our event page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1C7pzbsd6P/

Image description: A promotional event poster. Text reads "Have your say. Carers’ Strategy Action Plan. Feedback session for family carers. 3B Olive Road, Penrose, Auckland. Thursday, 12 February 2026. 11:00am to 12:30pm". There's an image of a mother and daughter in the kitchen.

03/02/2026

Share the love, connect with other families, and get creative!

Our free Parent Support Group events are back, and we’re kicking off the year with a fun Valentine’s Day social evening.

Decorate your own journal to capture memories, moments of gratitude, or notes for 2026. Then grab some props and strike a pose at our Valentine’s-themed photo booth.

Whether you’re new to the group or have joined us before, we welcome you to bring the whole family along. We’ll provide the journals, craft supplies, and snacks - just come as you are.

This free event is on Wednesday 11 February in Ōtāhuhu, with Asoka, Cherie and Mike hosting.

For more information, including how to register, check out our event page: https://www.facebook.com/share/17yZ13CqVF/

Image description: Promotional poster for the event. There's a graphic of a polaroid coming out of a camera, with a heart on both the photo and camera. Text reads: “Parent Support Group. Free event for families. Valentine’s Day Social Evening. Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Mt Richmond Specialist School, 7 Albion Road, Ōtāhuhu.”

01/02/2026

We’ve heard from families who're concerned about the changes to Individualised Funding and Carer Support affecting their ability to plan for the future.

We feel that disabled people and families are being left out of the conversation about planning for carer wellbeing in the new needs assessment.

How are the changes to Disability Support Services impacting your family?

What would help you plan for 2026 with certainty and confidence?

30/01/2026

It was a joy to start the year by seeing so many families out enjoying Funfest. The energy, the smiles, and the sense of community made it a truly special event.

We were especially pleased to meet so many new families. If you’ve just discovered Disability Connect over the summer break, a very warm welcome to you. We’re glad you’re here.

Our team looks forward to walking alongside you and supporting your journey toward the best possible life for you and your whānau.

Image descriptions:
Image 1: a young man in a wheelchair approaches Funfest’s outdoor attractions as families enjoy nearby thrill rides.
Image 2: young adults and children sit in open red carriages as it travels forward on a train track.
Image 3: A mother and her son talk with team member Denise at the Disability Connect stall at Funfest.

29/12/2025

We loved seeing all the connections made at our Parent Support Groups this year.

Thank you to everyone who showed up, shared their stories, and helped us build such a warm and supportive community.

Image descriptions: Parents, children, guest speakers, and Disability Connect team members at Parent Support Group events. Activities include Valentine’s Day craft making, dance movement therapy sessions, painting and art activities, flower arrangement workshops, music therapy, and information sharing.

24/12/2025

From our whānau to yours!

Image description: A polaroid graphic taped on to a red background. The photo shows eleven members of the Disability Connect team smiling together in front of a branded media wall. Red and white Christmas hats have been edited on top of each person's head. Text below reads "Happy holidays!"

22/12/2025

If you or your whānau need some extra mental health support over the holidays, there are several services available to help.

For more information, go to:
https://mherc.org.nz/seeking-help/seeking-help
https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/mental-health-addictions/mental-health-programmes/disability-support-mental-health/

Our office reopens on Monday 12 January 2026.

Image description: graphic icon of a pink heart with arms wrapped around it. Text above says "If you need extra support over the holidays...".

19/12/2025

Join Robyn, our Disability Information Advisor, this coming Monday 22 December for our last online Zoom Support Group for the year.

Our support groups are safe space for families to ask questions, share experiences and connect with others on a similar journey.

Check out our event page for more information, including how to join: https://fb.me/e/3Nbwv2ltV

Image description: Blue promotional graphic with the text: “Zoom Support Group. Free online community meeting for families. Join Robyn on Mondays, 7pm to 8pm.” A photo of Robyn is displayed on a smartphone on the right side of the image.

16/12/2025

This year was extra special as it marked the release of our first documentary, Sasanka’s Journey!

If you haven't seen it yet, our short film follows a young man’s path to becoming a Library Assistant at Highland Park Library.

Featuring insights from his mother and employer, it celebrates Sasanka’s unique contributions and the taonga he represents.

With music by Jeff Wragg, a parent of a neurodiverse child, the film was entered into the international 2025 Focus on Ability Film Festival.

You can watch the film on our Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/1100105516

Image description: Sasanka smiling softly. He is inside the Highland Park Library, and wears glasses, a grey golf flat cap, a pink shirt, and a colourful lanyard.