Disabilities Resource Centre

Disabilities Resource Centre We are committed to positively impacting the lives of the elderly and people with disabilities

Yesterday we celebrated an incredible milestone…30 years of service from our Operations Manager, Toni. If you know Toni,...
27/05/2026

Yesterday we celebrated an incredible milestone…30 years of service from our Operations Manager, Toni.

If you know Toni, you’ll know she will probably be unhappy about this public praise… but honestly, it is more than deserved.

For 30 years, Toni has been one of the steady hands behind DRC. She is the person quietly working away in the background, avoiding the podium wherever possible, making sure the numbers add up, the doors stay open, and the organisation keeps moving forward so we can continue supporting the people who rely on us every day.

Her dedication, commitment, and devotion to DRC and the people within it has been unwavering. Over three decades, she has not only helped shape this organisation, but has also supported and guided countless staff, clients, and whānau along the way.

In her speech, Toni spoke about her “why”… the people she has had the opportunity to serve and work alongside throughout the years. We think that says everything about the kind of person she is.

Thank you, Toni, for 30 years of hard work, loyalty, care, and leadership. DRC simply would not be the same without you.

We are incredibly proud to share that our Information Services Co-ordinator, Naomi Freeman, was awarded the Information ...
24/05/2026

We are incredibly proud to share that our Information Services Co-ordinator, Naomi Freeman, was awarded the Information Consultant of the Year at the national New Zealand Federation of Disability Information Centres conference over the weekend.

Naomi was recognised for her work bringing people and organisations together through initiatives such as the Emergency Services Open Day, Disability Networking Hui, and the many online workshops and hui she coordinates to help strengthen support to tāngata whaikaha/people with disabilities, pakeke/seniors and whānau/carers.

Through collaboration with disability support organisations, emergency services, health providers, and community groups, Naomi has worked to create inclusive spaces where people can access information, build relationships, and feel supported.

Naomi says she feels incredibly honoured to receive the award and acknowledges the many organisations, colleagues, and community members she has had the privilege of working alongside.

This recognition reflects the importance of collaboration, accessibility, community connection, and values we are passionate about here at the Disabilities Resource Centre.

Congratulations Naomi, we are so proud of you and grateful for the passion, care, and energy you bring to our community every day.

🏁 Amazing Race Whakatāne – Registrations Now Open!Get ready for a fun day out with whānau, friends, or colleagues at our...
30/04/2026

🏁 Amazing Race Whakatāne – Registrations Now Open!

Get ready for a fun day out with whānau, friends, or colleagues at our all-abilities Amazing Race — designed for the whole community to take part and enjoy.

📅 Saturday 6 June
⏰ 11.00am – 2.00pm
📍 River Edge Park, McAlister Street Car park

Teams will move around a series of interactive stations hosted by local organisations, completing quick challenges along the way. Expect a mix of fun, laughter, and a few surprises, all in a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone can participate.

Whether you are competitive, or just keen for a great day out, this event is all about connection, community, and having a go.

👉 Register now, phone: 0800 227 363 or email: jo@parafedbop.co.nz or click the below link for the online registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/17jiPxIMl8wGVAUTpGUTHOshFQRbNdx_0ICW-dV4IrFg/edit

Delivered in collaboration with Disabilities Resource Centre, Parafed Bay of Plenty , VM Events, Eastern Bay Road Safety Programme and Halberg Foundation.

Ngā mihi nui to Te Tohu o Te Ora o Ngāti AwaWhat an absolute privilege to have your amazing team alongside us for our Ka...
21/04/2026

Ngā mihi nui to Te Tohu o Te Ora o Ngāti Awa

What an absolute privilege to have your amazing team alongside us for our Kaimahi Hauora Day!

Thank you for bringing the manaaki, the kōrero, and the hauora checks for our kaimahi. You created such a welcoming, safe space for our team to pause, connect, and prioritise their wellbeing – and that is everything.

This is what strong community looks like. Supporting our people, uplifting each other, and walking alongside one another.

He waka eke noa – we’re all in this together.

We hope everyone is safe and sound after yesterday’s cyclone!It’s been a tough time for many, and our thoughts are with ...
13/04/2026

We hope everyone is safe and sound after yesterday’s cyclone!

It’s been a tough time for many, and our thoughts are with anyone impacted.

A huge shout out to our local council - Te Kaunihera ā-rohe o Whakatāne - Whakatāne District Council and Radio 1XX for their amazing communication and keeping our community informed throughout.

And a massive thank you to our emergency services, civil defence teams, and everyone who was out there in those conditions making sure our community stayed safe. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and we are so grateful.

Please take care, check in on one another, and reach out if you need support 🤍

Scooters all lined up for a great day! We loved bringing the community together for our recent Mobility Scooter Safety S...
09/04/2026

Scooters all lined up for a great day!

We loved bringing the community together for our recent Mobility Scooter Safety Session, a chance to learn, connect, and build confidence out and about.

A big thank you to everyone who came along, asked questions, and shared in the kōrero.

Thank you to Richard from Eastern Bay Road Safety Programme, Jane from Neighbourhood Support Whakatane, Rob and Mike from NZ Police.

Together, we’re helping create a safer, more connected community.

👉 Need a hi-vis flag for your scooter? If you are located in the Eastern Bay, get in touch — available while stocks last.

Keep an eye out for more events coming soon!

Are you a carer? This is for you. 💛Caring for someone you love is important mahi — but you deserve support too.Join our ...
31/03/2026

Are you a carer? This is for you. 💛

Caring for someone you love is important mahi — but you deserve support too.

Join our FREE online hui with Carers New Zealand and pick up practical tips, tools, and support for your caring journey.

Real talk. Real tools. Real support.

📅 Wednesday 22 April
⏰ 11.00 am - 12.30 pm
💻 Online (register to get the link)

📩 Register: information@drct.co.nz

📞 0800 227 363

👉 Please share with carers and whānau who might need this

Not sure what the next step looks like for you or your whānau?The FREE Where From Here – He Ara Whakamua guide is here t...
24/03/2026

Not sure what the next step looks like for you or your whānau?

The FREE Where From Here – He Ara Whakamua guide is here to help

Packed with local services, care options, and practical advice to support informed decisions.

📍 Available now at the Disabilities Resource Centre, 141 King Street, Whakatāne
🌐 Or download: www.eldernet.co.nz/where-from-here

18/03/2026

Awesome mahi by the Te Mārama rōpū from Trident High School and HALO Whakatane!

Creating an accessible platform like this helps ensure everyone in our community can participate, connect, and feel included. Small changes can make a big difference.

Thank you for helping make our community more accessible for all.

Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.
With your basket and my basket, the people will thrive.

You might have heard Drop, Cover, Hold but what matters most is doing what works for you.Whether you use a cane, walker,...
24/02/2026

You might have heard Drop, Cover, Hold but what matters most is doing what works for you.
Whether you use a cane, walker, or wheelchair, there are safe options to help protect your body and reduce injury during shaking.

Preparedness is not about fear, it is about knowing your options and feeling more confident if the unexpected happens.

Address

141-143 King Street, Whakatane East
Whakatane
3120

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8am - 4:30pm
Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+6473071447

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