Stories

#EnoughIsEnough #AccessLawNow #AccessMattersNZ

We had visitors over Christmas and they wanted to walk though Pukekura Park to see the lights as they have never seen them before.

I wanted to go too, but ...

Earlier this year my niece and I went to Wellington to see the World of WearableArt exhibition at Te Papa. I have low vision but reasoned that this exhibition would be one I could enjoy - and indeed, I did - as we had booked one of the very informative guided tours of the exhibition.

The real highlight, though ...

Just when I needed it, I discovered a wonderful service.

It’s called ...

As I write this, the news of the world is shocking. With Covid-19 death figures increasing, grieving families much in my thoughts.

But then the LARGE issues were soon replaced when I prepared my lunch.  Frustration took over with a little issue!

“Everyone with access needs – including disabled people, older people, Māori, migrants, people with English as a second language, and those with temporary injuries - must have an equal opportunity to live life without being hindered by barriers to participation.”

My name is John. I’m from Bluff. And I believe every word of this statement, so aptly expressed by the Access Alliance. People with access needs absolutely deserve an equal opportunity to live life without constantly having to try to overcome problems and difficulties on a daily basis.

My name is Anamaria, I am the carer for my 17-year-old grandson Razeal, and we live in Wanganui. Razeal suffers from a brain injury; we have spent the last 15 years battling ACC and the last five years in court trying to get Razeal the proper care he needs. In the process, we have been confronted with systemic barriers that have made it extremely difficult for Razeal to gain funding for services that are essential to his learning and long-term growth.

Using a wheelchair hasn’t stopped Merle Bradley going snorkelling or getting out into the rugged West Coast bush.

[Story originally published at Mental Health Awareness Week 21-27 September 2020]

It’s been a tough year for many, but for Northland man Phoenix Ruka, this year has been exceptionally hard for him and his whānau.

[Story originally published at Mental Health Awareness Week 21-27 September 2020]

Masks are a big part of the fight against Covid-19 in New Zealand, but for a large part of the Kiwi community, they are also an added complication when it comes to being understood.