For nearly seven years, Parafed Gisborne Tairāwhiti has been dedicated to expanding opportunities for those with physical disabilities in the region to participate in sports and recreation.
Supporting members from Wairoa to the East Cape, Parafed aims to improve access for people with disabilities to experience the benefits of movement, competition and connection.
Trust Tairāwhiti has backed this vital mahi with $52,000 in funding since 2019, enabling Parafed to expand its reach and impact in communities across Tairāwhiti.
Weekly sessions offer activities like wheelchair basketball and boccia, while monthly have-a-go days encourage Parafed’s members to try new sports.
Parafed is committed to providing meaningful support to its members through free or subsidized events and programmes, such as badminton, beach surfing, and swimming. They also offer equipment hire and loans and assist members in developing their skills in their chosen sports. Members also benefit from fundraising advice and opportunities to connect with others with disabilities and their whānau, fostering lasting friendships in a supportive environment.
Parafed works closely with sporting codes and organisations to promote inclusivity and advocate for adaptive opportunities within mainstream sports, ensuring greater access to participation for all.
By reducing barriers, fostering safe and welcoming spaces, and connecting members with experienced coaches and facilitators, Parafed is making sport and recreation more accessible than ever.
“Seeing the joy on our members’ faces as they participate is the reason we do what we do,” says Lou Ellery, Parafed’s regional development coordinator.
For more information, visit the Parafed Gisborne Tairāwhiti website.
