Access services directory
This directory includes key organisations that can provide advice, resources, and information about accessibility. There are also many organisations that work closely with disabled children, including parent advocacy organisations and schools. These are organisations governed and run by disabled people
IHC New Zealand
A national organisation that advocates for the rights, inclusion and welfare of all people with an intellectual or learning disability and supports them to live satisfying lives in the community. It presents the annual IHC Art Awards and can help arts organisations connect with its key stakeholders.
iSign
An online interpreter booking system, it provides connections between Sign Language interpreters, and the Deaf and hearing people who use them.
Kāpō Māori Aotearoa New Zealand
This national Māori health and disability service provider is driven by and for Māori disabled consumers and their whānau. It’s a member-based society open to any person (disabled, non-disabled, Māori and non-Māori) who supports the vision: to improve the quality of life of kāpo (blind) Māori and their whānau. This is a disabled people’s organisation.
Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
A national organisation that advocates for policies and services supporting people with experience of mental illness, their families, whānau and friends. It provides free information and training.
National Foundation for Deaf & Hard of Hearing
This organisation promotes the interests of Deaf and hard of hearing New Zealanders. It provides information about deafness, hearing impairment, noise injury, tinnitus, audiologists, hearing tests, hearing aids, grants and scholarships. It also encourages New Zealanders to protect and preserve their hearing.
People First New Zealand Ngā Tāngata Tuatahi
A national self-advocacy organisation run by and for people with learning disability. There are more than 30 groups throughout New Zealand where members meet monthly to discuss issues. An education arm called Learnwithus provides training and lifelong learning opportunities. It also offers an Easy Read Translation Service. Regional contacts are listed on its website. This is a disabled people’s organisation.
Platform Interpreting NZ
Platform Interpreting NZ was set up in 2019 by NZSL interpreter Kelly Hodgins in 2019. It specialises in providing interpreting services for the arts and offers a package service to companies wanting to be NZSL/Deaf accessible. Its experienced team includes performance interpreters, Deaf consultants and NZSL interpreter advisors.
Toi Māori Aotearoa
Toi Māori Aotearoa is a key national organisation involved in the development of contemporary Māori arts. It has extensive networks and produces a range of activities, including festivals, exhibitions, performances, publications and workshops. Contact Toi Māori for advice on tikanga Māori (protocol) for your arts events and activities.
Vaka Tautua
Vaka Tautua provides national services for Pacific peoples with disabilities. Its education programmes, resources and activities are aimed at removing barriers to participation and promoting an inclusive society. It can provide artists and arts organisations with advice, information and networks in Pacific communities. It has offices in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
