What is disability?

Disability is a really broad term with lots of definitions.

It covers various conditions, like physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental challenges, which can make everyday activities and living an 'everyday life' a bit more complicated.

Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes, from temporary ones, like a broken leg, to lifelong conditions, such as cerebral palsy or blindness. Some you can see, like someone using a wheelchair, while others are hidden, like chronic pain or neurological conditions.

But here's the important thing to know: Disability isn't just medical stuff. It's also about how society, the environment, and people's attitudes can either help or hinder someone with a disability. Sometimes, barriers and discrimination make it tough for them to fully join in with things like school, work, or getting around.

That's why Firstport was established, to help make it easier to find and access the thousands of awesome New Zealanders putting in the mahi to help make Aotearoa an accessible, supportive place.

Take a look through the Firstport site, if you have any questions we're not pointing you in the right direction to get the answer for yet, please let us know! Our contact details are always available at the bottom of the page.

In this section

• 

  About Firstport

  What is Firstport and who keeps it ticking?
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  Whaikaha Ministry of Disabled People

  Get to know the ministry who support our disabled community.

How do I get disability support?

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