What is disability?
New to the world of disability in Aotearoa New Zealand? We can help.
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
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About Firstport
What is Firstport and who keeps it ticking?
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Whaikaha Ministry of Disabled People
Find out more about the ministry set up to support over 1 million disabled people in Aotearoa New Zealand
How do I get disability support?
Disability Support Services
Explore whether you'll get funded through Disability Support Services.
Legal and rights
Support with discrimination or legal problems.
ACC
If you've had an accident which has caused an injury or disability, you might be able to get support from ACC New Zealand
Understanding different organisations
When you’re looking for support, you’ll see a whole lot of names for different organisation types. It can get confusing quickly. Read on to find out the differences,
Self assessment
Take a look at the free tools available to help you fit in the world of disability and understand yourself better.
In an Emergency
What do you do and who do you talk as a member of our disabled community in an emergency