With International Day of Persons with Disabilities around the corner this Sunday 3 December, there's quite a few events happening in many regions throughout New Zealand.
Wherever you are, we hope you take a moment to celebrate disabled people in our communities this weekend and to reflect on this year's theme: 'Everyone working together to make the world better and fairer for people with disability.’
Here are some events that are happening around the country – check out the links on the day to check for wet weather plans.
Christchurch – a morning of fun and activities
Whānau Whanake, Hei Whakapiki Mauri, Disability Leadership Canterbury and DPA invite you to join in on a morning of fun and activities for disabled people, families, tangata whaikaha Māori, whānau, and aiga.
When: 10am – 12pm, Sunday 3 December 2023
Where: Te Pou Toetoe Linwood Pool, 141 Smith Street, Linwood, Christchurch 8062
Find out more: Christchurch International Day of Persons with Disabilities Picnic | Facebook
Disability Rights Commissioner, Prudence Walker, will be joining us as a guest speaker. This will be a relaxed event. There will be a few short speeches, some simple refreshments, and some completely optional fun activities.
Dunedin – picnic at the Woodhaugh Garden Pool
Bring a picnic and togs and join us at the Woodhaugh Garden Pool this Saturday. Everyone Welcome!
When: 2pm – 4pm, Saturday 2 December 2023
Where: Woodhaugh Garden Pool, Dunedin
Find out more: Dunedin International Day of Persons with Disabilities Picnic | Facebook
An NZSL interpreter will be present.
West Coast – Disability Day fun fair
An inclusive and accessible free event to celebrate our disabled community and whānau.
When: 10am to 2pm, Sunday 3 December 2023
Where: St Mary’s School, 87 Sewell Street, Hokitika
Find out more: West Coast International Day of Persons with Disabilities | Facebook
If the weather isn't too good, the fair will still go ahead, it may just be a little noisy in the hall, but there will be quiet spaces available.
Kāpiti – low-sensory Christmas celebration
When: 10am – 11.30am, Sunday 3 December 2023
Location: Lorna Irene Reserve, Paraparaumu, Wellington
Website: Kāpiti District Council low-sensory Christmas celebration | Facebook
The Kāpiti District Council is hosting a low-sensory Christmas celebration. There will be a visit with Santa and time to enjoy the all-abilities playground with its inclusive swing, sensory play opportunities, and wheelchair-accessible equipment. There will also be ice creams, facepainting and sausages on the barbecue available throughout the morning.
Hamilton – picnic in the park
My Life My Voice is hosting a picnic in the park to celebrate International Day of People with Disabilities. Free pizza will be provided.
When: 3pm – 5pm, Sunday 3 December
Where: Magical Bridge Playground in Claudelands Park
RSVP: Email to ccbwaikato@mylifemyvoice.org.nz by 12pm Saturday December 2nd and let us know about any dietary needs and allergies.
Find out more: My Life My Voice picnic in the park, Hamilton | Facebook
Tauranga – a family-friendly day
Tauranga City Council, CCS Disability Action and Western Bay of Plenty District Council are hosting a free, family-friendly day with live performances. The beach wheelchairs will be available, as will the TrailRider for rides to the top of Hopukiore (Mount Drury) and back.
There will be activity stands, information highlighting local support services and facilities, a photo booth, face painting, a sausage sizzle and more.
When: 10am – 1pm, Sunday 3 December
Where: Hopukiore (Mount Drury) Reserve, Mount Maunganui
Find out more: International Day of Disabled Persons – Tauranga | Facebook
Auckland – disability-friendly picnic – new date
Note: this event has been postponed due to rain, there's also a new time – updated details below.
Disabled people, whānau and friends are all welcome to join a disability-friendly picnic – a good excuse to hang out together, share kai and make a new friend or three!
When: 11am to 2pm, Sunday 10 December 2023
Where: Western Springs Lakeside Park, 859 Great North Rd – weather permitting
For more details: Disability Community Picnic, Auckland | Facebook
Any questions: write to Áine Kelly-Costello ainekc@gmail.com
Hoping to have an NZSL interpreter there.
For details including funding for transport assistance – Auckland disability picnic.
These links will be updated in case of any changes or cancellation so please do check before you leave on the day!