Takiwātanga Aotearoa Autism in New Zealand
Learn more about Autism and the tools and resources available to support you
Māori describe Autism, as Takiwātangai: meaning in his or her own time or space. It can come with its own set of challenges, but there are resources and tools out there to support you and connect you to our neurodiverse community.
Getting an Autism diagnosis
If you think you or your child may have Autism, you may like to look at getting a diagnosis. Do you have to get a diagnosis? No not at all. The autistic community recognises self-diagnosis so if you’re looking for community or to get a bit of understanding about yourself, it’s not a necessary step.
A diagnosis might sound daunting, but it can be useful because it helps you understand why certain things might be tricky and can open the door to financial or resource supports you can’t access without one. It may be a very necessary step for our non-verbal community or those who struggle with other communication challenges. There a plenty of supports which can make enabling a good life with these challenges easier, but they usually do require an official diagnosis to access them.
Getting an autism diagnosis in New Zealand can seem like a big process, but there are clear steps to follow. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and where to go for support.
If you’re on the fence
Here's a link to the test that Autism New Zealand recommend
You can get a bit of an idea from this free online test about where you’re at neurodivergent-wise. You have to be honest with yourself though. If you’re testing yourself as an adult, you’ll have built up all kinds of amazing skills to help manage some of your natural tendencies.
For instance, maybe you used to fiddle with things a lot when you were nervous or excited but got told off a lot and hold yourself back now. That’s called ‘stimming’ and is a great way many of our autistic community release excess energy (called ‘self-regulating’). Just because you don’t do it now by willpower, doesn’t take away from the fact that you would answer ‘yes’ to this question.
If you take the test for yourself or your child and decide you want to explore more, the first step is easy.
Start with your regular doctor
Your first step is usually talking to your regular doctor (General Practitioner or GP). They can help refer you or your family member to a private or public clinic for an autism assessment.
Public vs. Private Assessments
Public System – If you go through the public health system, your GP will refer you to a specialist like a pediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist. This service is funded through Disability Support Services and is usually free to receive. Because of demand for this service however, please do note there are wait times. For instance, in some areas of New Zealand, you could be waiting longer than 18 months.
You can go through the NASC (needs assessment service coordination) to access this support. Read more about NASC here.
If you’re exploring options for your child, you can also access support through Child Development Services (CDS). CDS comes through the pediatric service at our hospitals. You’ll be able to access hospital supports like occupational therapists and you could end up going through the NASC or Ministry of Education services once you access this support. Learn more at Child Development Services.Private Options – If you’re looking for a quicker process and can afford to cover the cost, private assessments are available. The initial assessment appointment could range from $1,800 to $4,000 or more.
Autism New Zealand has a list of private centers across the country with people who can officially diagnose autism on their Community Links page.
Getting Support Along the Way
Outreach Coordinators – Autism New Zealand has Outreach Coordinators across the country who can help guide you through the process. You can self-refer at any stage. Learn more here.
Diagnosis Guides – There are detailed guides for both children and adults that explain what to expect.
Aotearoa New Zealand Autism Guideline – This guideline provides best-practice advice for assessments and ongoing support. Find it here.
The path to an autism diagnosis can be different for everyone. Whether you go through the public system, a private clinician, or Autism New Zealand’s service, there are plenty of resources and people ready to help along the way.
Medication for Autism
A number of medications associated with autism are pretty well known, but it’s good to know that medication isn't typically used to ‘treat autism’ itself.
Some of our autistic community experience additional challenges like anxiety, depression, or attention difficulties. In these cases, healthcare professionals like a psychiatrist might prescribe medications to help our community manage these specific symptoms.
Accessing these supports is one reason our community would look at getting an ‘official’ diagnosis. The healthcare professional will assess individual needs and discuss potential benefits and side effects. They can guide you through the options and ensure that any medication is part of a comprehensive support plan tailored to a person’s unique situation.
Remember, medication is just one aspect of support. There are various therapies and strategies available that can also make a significant difference. It's all about finding the right combination that works best for each person.
Autism Support Groups and Online Communities
There are plenty of community support groups across New Zealand for autistic people and their families. Whether you're looking for advice, social connections, or just a space where you feel understood, here are some great options:
Autism New Zealand
With 16 branches across the country, Autism New Zealand offers support, education, and resources for autistic people and their families. Their Outreach Coordinators can help connect you to local services.
Autism New Zealand also offers a lower-cost private assessment service to make the process more accessible. Their team supports individuals and families throughout the journey.
👉 autismnz.org.nz
Altogether Autism
A free, nationwide service that provides evidence-based information and advice. They also run community network meetings where people can connect and share experiences.
👉 altogetherautism.org.nz
Explore
Explore offers three progammes through the Ministry of Health to support children at different ages with autism and their parents.
👉 Autism Support Services - Explore Wellbeing
Parent to Parent
This group connects parents of autistic children with trained support parents who have been in similar situations. It’s a great way to find support from people who truly understand.
👉 parent2parent.org.nz
Enrich+ Autism Groups
Enrich+ runs small social groups for autistic kids, teens, and young adults (ages 5–25). These groups focus on building communication and social skills in a fun, relaxed way.
👉 enrichplus.org.nz
Wairoa Tamariki
Wairoa Tamariki offers a totally website-based support system to inform and educate autistic kids and their families. It’s free and comes out of studies and findings from New Zealand universities. Like their ‘Good Nights’ programme which has helped over 100 families get a better night sleep.
Pasifika Autism Support Group
A support network for Pasifika families, raising awareness and sharing resources tailored to the Pacific community.
👉 asdpasifika.org.nz
Auckland Peer Group
This independent group is run by autistic individuals for autistic individuals. It’s a friendly, relaxed space to meet others and share experiences.
👉 healthify.nz
Upper Hutt Autism Group (UHAG)
A local support group for autistic people and their families in the Upper Hutt area.
👉 cab.org.nz
There are also Autism support Facebook groups listed on our community support groups page.
These groups are just a few of the many there to support you. It’s worth checking in with Autism New Zealand or Altogether Autism to find out if anything specific has popped up in your area.
Workplace support for adults with autism
Workbridge
This organisation helps people with autism and other conditions find and keep jobs. They offer advice, job coaching, and even help with workplace adjustments, such as flexible hours or specialised equipment.
Flexible Work Options
In New Zealand, employees have the right to request flexible working hours, which can be really helpful if you find that certain times of the day are better for your focus or energy levels.
Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP)
Many workplaces offer free access to counselling and support services through EAP. If you’re finding things difficult at work, this can be a great resource to tap into.
Living with Autism in New Zealand doesn’t have to be a lonely or overwhelming journey. Whether it’s getting a diagnosis, joining a support group, using helpful apps, or finding workplace support, there are many tools and resources available to make life easier.
Connecting with others who understand Autism, using practical strategies, and seeking the right help can make all the difference.
Getting support for kids or young adults
KidsHealth is a Starship and Health New Zealand run site with health-based information to support parents. They have some awesome resources for supporting families of children or young adults with autism.
Take a look!
Thinking about other self assessments? Check out our self-assessment section