Disability explained

New to the world of disability in Aotearoa New Zealand? We can help.

Disability is a really broad term with lots of definitions.

Two women and a man with various disabilities smiling on blue boxes. These people are the

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 answer yet, please let us know! Our contact details are always available at the bottom of the page.

The New Zealand Disability Strategy 2026 - 2030

New Zealand’s strategy for the next 5 years is focused on creating a path to inclusion and opportunity. The vision is for a New Zealand where disabled people and their whānau live in an equitable, accessible society.

The strategy was developed by Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People, in consultation with members of our disability community. It identifies the challenges and priorities areas for New Zealand to focus on.

Priority areas and actions

The strategy sets out five main areas and identifies what the Government would like to do to address the challenges in them.

  • Education: Every learner should feel they belong and can succeed. Investments include $645.8 million for learning support and $90 million for new classrooms and property modifications.

  • Employment: Disabled people deserve equal opportunities and meaningful careers. Our government will track progress through employment rates and pay gap indicators.

  • Health: Everyone should enjoy the highest possible standard of health. Our government will tackle barriers to care and improve access to mental health and rehabilitation services.

  • Housing: Safe, affordable, and accessible homes are essential. Currently, fewer than 2% of homes meet accessibility needs – the strategy aims to change that.

  • Justice: Disabled people must be treated fairly and protected within the justice system. Training and safeguards will be strengthened to ensure this can happen.

Read the full strategy on the Whaikaha website here.

Measuring progress

Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People are responsible for making the strategy happen and will work with other agencies to report annually on progress. They use clear indicators to track improvements in life satisfaction, inclusion, and equity.

Read more about Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People here.

In this section

How do I get disability support?

Disability Support Services

Explore funding through Disability Support Services.

Legal and rights

Support with discrimination or legal problems.

Falls prevention

Learn what the ACC-led falls prevention programme.

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 to understand yourself.

In an Emergency

Get prepared for an emergency.

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