Disability Support Services Community Consultation
2025-03-12 19:30 - 21:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Zoom, New Zealand
The Disability Support Services (DSS) community consultation is open and will run through 24 March 2025. This consultation builds upon the feedback DSS received from their 2024 survey and submissions.
In alignment with World Down Syndrome Day this year, the NZDSA calls on all governments to Improve Our Support Systems. We strongly encourage you to take part in the consultation process to help shape future support frameworks.
The NZDSA will also host two online forums to provide a space for our community to come together and share their insights. These contributions will play a key role in shaping the NZDSA’s official response to the consultation.
Topic: NZDSA – DSS Consultation
Date: 12 March 2025
Time: 07:30 PM Auckland, Wellington
Meeting ID: 846 4073 2262
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Read here for all the details on DSS Consultation
https://www.disabilitysupport.govt.nz/consultation

ASID Aotearoa NZ Conference
2025-03-17 09:00 - 16:30 | Harbourside Function Centre, 4 Taranaki Street, Wellington, New Zealand
ASID Aotearoa NZ conference – Data, Design and Delivery: Research to support people with a learning (intellectual) disability – Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability
Monday 17 March 2025
9am – 4:40pm NZDT
In person: Harbourside Function Venue (Shed 22), Wellington
This conference will be of interest to:

People with lived experience of learning (intellectual) disability
Whānau and family members
Researchers (including student researchers)
Service providers
Health and disability professionals
Government officials

ADSA Rock your Socks
2025-03-21

The Big Connect
2025-03-21 19:00 - 21:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
Join us online on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM for The Big Connect as we come together to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day!
This year, Down syndrome communities worldwide are calling on governments to improve support systems for people with Down syndrome and their families. Now is the time to connect, advocate, and take action!
Why Support MattersSupport isn’t just helpful—it’s a human right.• People with Down syndrome deserve the opportunity to live, thrive, and fully participate in their communities.• Families need the right resources to provide meaningful support to their loved ones.• The right support at the right time ensures dignity, choice, and independence.
What to Expect at The Big ConnectExpert Panel & Discussion – Hear from a diverse group of experts and leaders as they discuss what a strong, inclusive support system should look like.
The panel experts include:• Prudence Walker, Kaihautū Tika Hauātanga Disability Rights Commissioner• Bridget Snedden President of Down Syndrome International• Paul Gibson, Chief Executive, VisAble former commissioner on the Abuse in Care Inquiry. As the first Human Rights Commissioner with responsibility for disability rights• Loren Savage, Senior Advisor to the Chief Executive, Whaikaha, Ministry of Disabled People• Juliana Carvalho, Project Manager, Access Matters Aotearoa Trust• Shara Turner, Advocate, IHC New Zealand• Trish Grant, Inclusive Education Lead, IHC• Dr Maree Kirk, Director of Networks of Expertise– Supporting Teachers Practice• Jennifer Del Bel, Managing Director, Downlights• Grant Cleland, Managing Director, Creative Solutions• Andrew Oswin, STEP-UP member and Ambassador on Down Syndrome International,• Erin Smith, Abigail Knight, Vinnie Vaccarino, Rochelle Waters, Peter Rees, Mohit Chand, all STRIVE members• Laurie Hilsgen, CEO, Carers New Zealand• Associate Professor Brigit Mirfin-Veitch, Kaiwhakahaere – Director, Donald Beasley Institute
Community Voices – Share your insights, learn from others, and help shape the conversation.
Although our community is spread across the country, The Big Connect is our chance to unite, celebrate, and make our voices heard.
Together, we can send a powerful message to our government about real actions needed to improve support for people with Down syndrome.
Let’s make a difference! Mark your calendar and join us at The Big Connect.

ABCD Group Lido Get Together
2025-03-22 11:00 - 14:00 | Lido Aquatic Centre, Park Road, Palmerston North, New Zealand

ADSA Big Picnic
2025-03-23 11:00 - 14:30 | Papatoetoe East Primary, 138 Tui Road, Auckland, New Zealand

Care Matters & NZDSA Future Planning Workshop 1
2025-04-02 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom, New Zealand

CDSA - Navigating the transition from school into employment
2025-04-09 19:00 - 20:30 | The Village Presbyterian Church & Community Centre, 460 Papanui Road, 460 Papanui Road, Christchurch, New Zealand

STRIVE Afternoon Tea Club
2025-04-12 16:00 - 17:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
Join us at the STRIVE Afternoon Tea Club
A session run by people with Down syndrome for people with Down syndrome. All are welcome but focussed on +16 participants.
Topic: STRIVE Afternoon Tea Club
Date: 12 April 2025
Time: 04:00 PM Auckland, Wellington
Zoom Meeting – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84558163827?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 845 5816 3827
Passcode: [REDACTED]
This time we will talk about what you did for World Down Syndrome Day

Care Matters & NZDSA Future Planning Workshop 2
2025-04-16 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom, New Zealand
Care Matters and the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) are excited to collaborate and bring you a free four-part online workshop series designed to empower whānau in planning for the future. Rooted in the Enabling Good Lives (EGL) principles, these sessions provide practical tools, insights, and connections to help you navigate the journey ahead.
Attend all four for the full experience or join individual sessions as they suit you!
These sessions, led by facilitators with lived experience, will cover:
2 April – Understanding how EGL principles support future planning
16 April – Discovering ways to envision the future for your loved one
30 April – Turning your vision into actionable steps
14 May – Developing skills to overcome challenges along the way
These workshops have been designed specifically for parents and whānau who have family members with Down syndrome
Register here: https://carematters.org.nz/events/vision-planning/

Autism Awareness Month Online Support Session
2025-04-29 19:30 - 20:30 | Zoom, New Zealand
This April, the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) is proud to support Autism Awareness Month and raise awareness of the co-occurrence of Down syndrome and autism. April begins with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd, marking the 18th annual United Nations-recognised day of advocacy and understanding.
This year’s theme, “Celebrate Differences,” highlights the importance of embracing neurodiversity and ensuring equitable support for all.
NZDSA Online Support Session for Parents & Whānau
To celebrate Autism Awareness Month, NZDSA is hosting an online support session for parents and whānau of people with Down syndrome and Autism.. We’re thrilled to welcome Geraldine Whatnell, Nurse Practitioner and Director of Down Right Healthcare, who will answer questions and share valuable insights.
Did you know? Research suggests that a significant percentage of people with Down syndrome also have autism (with estimates ranging from 16-18% or even higher. Navigating a dual diagnosis can be complex, and we’re here to support families on this journey.
Date: 29 April 2025
Time: 7.30pm -8.30pm
Where: Zoom
Meeting ID: 821 3899 8023
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Care Matters & NZDSA Future Planning Workshop 3
2025-04-30 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom, New Zealand
Care Matters and the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) are excited to collaborate and bring you a free four-part online workshop series designed to empower whānau in planning for the future. Rooted in the Enabling Good Lives (EGL) principles, these sessions provide practical tools, insights, and connections to help you navigate the journey ahead.
Attend all four for the full experience or join individual sessions as they suit you!
These sessions, led by facilitators with lived experience, will cover:
2 April – Understanding how EGL principles support future planning
16 April – Discovering ways to envision the future for your loved one
30 April – Turning your vision into actionable steps
14 May – Developing skills to overcome challenges along the way
These workshops have been designed specifically for parents and whānau who have family members with Down syndrome
Register here: https://carematters.org.nz/events/turning-your-vision-into-action/

ADSA Under 12's Get Together
2025-05-04 14:00 - 17:00 | Grey Lynn Community Centre, 510 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland, New Zealand
A great way for our under 12’s community to mix and mingle. Bring the whole whanau.
Parents/Caregivers will have plenty of time to meet people and catch up, while their kids play.
PLEASE do not come if you feel unwell .
Please note: this is a very secure environment, however your children are still your responsibility at all times!
Please BYO food and drinks for afternoon tea. We will provide potato chips!
Please RSVP on this invitation – or email Sue on adminsupport@adsa.org.nz. RSVP is important – so that we can ensure we have enough volunteers and resources.

Care Matters & NZDSA Future Planning Workshop 4
2025-05-14 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom, New Zealand
Care Matters and the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) are excited to collaborate and bring you a free four-part online workshop series designed to empower whānau in planning for the future. Rooted in the Enabling Good Lives (EGL) principles, these sessions provide practical tools, insights, and connections to help you navigate the journey ahead.
Attend all four for the full experience or join individual sessions as they suit you!
These sessions, led by facilitators with lived experience, will cover:
2 April – Understanding how EGL principles support future planning
16 April – Discovering ways to envision the future for your loved one
30 April – Turning your vision into actionable steps
14 May – Developing skills to overcome challenges along the way
These workshops have been designed specifically for parents and whānau who have family members with Down syndrome
Register here: https://carematters.org.nz/events/skills-to-overcome-challenges/

ADSA Parent Dinner
2025-05-26 18:30 - 21:30 | The Good Home, 37 Normandy Road, Mt Eden, Auckland, New Zealand
This is a dinner for ADSA parents. Come along to connect with other families and meet friends – new and old. Share some delicious food, and plenty of laughs.
Come for a drink, dinner, dessert or everything – The GOOD HOME do fantastic food. (Please note: this meal is not funded by ADSA).
Please RSVP to Angela on 027 605 4496.

Introduction to the IHC Online Friendship Programme
2025-05-27 19:30 - 21:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
27th May at 7.30pm
Join Us for an Introduction to the IHC Online Friendship Programme!
Guest Speaker: Hannah Verry – Online Friendship Coordinator, IHC
This session is for parents and whānau who want to learn more about the IHC Online Friendship Programme, which connects people across the country by phone or online to build friendships and have fun. Whether it’s virtual exercise sessions, online games, movie nights, or simply catching up, this programme helps create meaningful connections.
Join us to learn:
Why we have an online friendship programme
How it works in practice
How to apply if you’re interested
Heartwarming stories from current friendships
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87117188178?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 871 1718 8178
Passcode: [REDACTED]

STRIVE Afternoon Tea Club
2025-06-07 16:00 - 17:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
STRIVE Afternoon Tea Club
7th June – 4pm -5pm
A session run by people with Down syndrome for people with Down syndrome. All are welcome but focussed on +16 participants.
Make a New Friend with the IHC Online Friendship Programme!
Guest Speaker: Hannah Verry – Online Friendship Coordinator, IHC
Do you want to make new friends? The IHC Online Friendship Programme helps people meet and have fun together on the phone or online.
You and your friend can:
Play games
Watch movies
Do fun activities
Talk and share stories
Join us online on 7th June to learn more!
This meeting is for people with Down syndrome
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87994165344?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 879 9416 5344
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Parents and whānau have a separate session on the 27th May at 7.30pm.
We would love to see you there!

Whaimana: Support My Decision
2025-07-24 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
The NZDSA is excited to invite you to the launch of a valuable new digital resource – Whaimana: Support My Decision
The New Zealand Down Syndrome Association is delighted to have been part of the advisory group that supported the development of Whaimana – Support My Decisions, a new digital resource designed to promote and enable supported decision-making.
We are proud to have contributed to this important mahi and would like to congratulate everyone involved in bringing this valuable initiative to life. We’re excited about the positive impact this resource will have and believe it will be hugely beneficial for our community.
We warmly invite you to attend the official launch – full details are below.
When: 11am -12pm, Thursday 24 July 2025.
Where: Online via MS teams o in person
To register : Whaimana | Support My Decisions Launch
Whaimana – Support My Decisions is a website about supported decision-making. Supported decision-making helps people make their own choices about their lives, with the support of the people that they choose.
The website has helpful information for:

people making choices and decisions (decision-makers)
family, whānau, and friends who want to support people
paid supporters working for disabled people or older persons with reduced capacity
supporters who have may hold legal roles such as EPOA (Enduring Power of Attorney), Welfare Guardian or Property Manager
advocates (people who speak up for others).

The launch of Whaimana – Support My Decisions will be celebrated with Hon Louise Upston, Minister for Disability Issues, and Paula Tesoriero, CE of Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People, and advisory group members.
We will take a tour of the website, to show you information, resources, and links. This website was put together by Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People and an advisory group made up of people with dementia, disabled people, tāngata whaikaha Māori, and family/whānau who worked alongside non-government organisations and government agencies.
You can join online or in person. Numbers are limited in person so please RSVP via humanitix https://events.humanitix.com/whaimana-support-my-decisions-launch
NZSL interpreters and light catering will be provided.

ADSA Success in Schools
2025-07-28 - 2025-07-29 | Zoom, New Zealand
Success in School is a 2-day workshop for educators of children with Down syndrome and other learning challenges.
NEXT WORKSHOP: 28 & 29 July 2025 – via Zoom
More Details to come

Strive Afternoon Tea Club
2025-08-09 16:00 - 17:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
9th August
STRIVE Afternoon Tea Club
4pm – 5pm
Online
A session run by people with Down syndrome for people with Down syndrome. All are welcome but focussed on +16 participants
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82833353821?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 828 3335 3821
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Online Support Group Down Syndrome and Autism
2025-08-20 19:30 - 20:30 | Zoom, New Zealand
20th August at 7.30pm
Online Support Group Down Syndrome and Autism
Online
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85334030961?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 853 3403 0961
Passcode: [REDACTED]

ADSA Parents Dinner
2025-08-25 18:30 | The Good Home, 37 Normandy Road, Mt Eden, Auckland, New Zealand

Special Rigs for Special Kids
2025-08-31 08:30 - 17:00 | Edgar Centre, 116 Portsmouth Drive, Dunedin, New Zealand
Dear “Kids” Caregivers,
This years’ fun day is to be held on Sunday 31st August from 8.30am. The event is hosted by the local transport industry to provide children with special needs, a chance to get close to the big rigs they see on the roads.
The invitation is for a child with special needs and a supporting adult to come to the Edgar Centre where they will be taken for a ride in a truck, and then returned to the Edgar Centre for a barbeque lunch.
We would like to emphasise that the day is primarily for children with special needs and their immediate families. We would ask you to take this into consideration when organising your family group
Please Note:
· If your child is aged 7 or under please bring their car seat or booster seat with you on the day
· We require one caregiver per child to travel in the truck, as you know the individual needs of your child.
· Any special dietary requirements for your child must be provided by you on the day.
· St John Ambulance Service will be present.
· There is no need to respond to this invitation other than to turn up on the 31st of August from 8.30am
· There is no cost to you or your family for this event.
· Any other immediate family members will be able to travel in the bus.
· Any enquiries please contact Greg Inch 0274 358 508.

Yours sincerely
Greg Inch
Special Rigs for Special Kids President

NZDSA Disability Strategy Refresh
2025-09-11 19:30 - 21:30 | Zoom, New Zealand
NZDSA: Have Your Say on the Disability Strategy Refresh
Consultations are open on the New Zealand Disability Strategy 2026–2030. This is your chance to make sure the voices of people with Down syndrome, their whānau, and carers are heard.
NZDSA Feedback Events
Join our sessions to share your thoughts in a supportive environment:
Topic: Feedback Refresh of the NZ Disability Strategy
Date: Sep 11, 2025
Time:07:30 PM Auckland, Wellington
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89358630942?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 893 5863 0942
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Read the draft:

Full Draft Strategy
Easy Read Document – Whaikaha link https://www.whaikaha.govt.nz/assets/NZ-Disability-Strategy-Public-Consultation/Whaikaha-AF2507003-NZDS-Public-Consultation-in-August-website-content-Easy-Read-24-07-25.pdf

Other events we encourage you to participate in are
Whaikaha consultation sessions
Access Matters Aotearoa Online Session

Date: Monday, 1 September 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (NZT)
Where: Online via Access Matters Aotearoa

Other Ways to Provide Feedback

Online via the Whaikaha consultation sessions
Word form via email
3-minute video via videomail.io
Request a group consultation toolkit

Deadline: Feedback closes Sunday, 28 September 2025.
Help shape a fairer and more inclusive Aotearoa for people with Down syndrome and their whānau.

STRIVE Afternoon Tea Club
2025-09-13 16:00 - 17:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
13th September – 4pm -5pm
A session run by people with Down syndrome for people with Down syndrome. All are welcome but focussed on +16 participants
This month we will be talking about the Refresh of the NZ Disability Strategy
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84168326399?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 841 6832 6399
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Online Support Meeting for Parents of Children with Regression Disorder
2025-09-17 19:30 - 20:30 | Zoom, New Zealand
17th September 2025 at 07:30 PM
Online Support Meeting for Parents of Children with Regression Disorder
The NZDSA is hosting another online support meeting for parents of children diagnosed with regression disorder. This will be an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and support one another.
Details:

Focus: Sharing and support (not for medical advice)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81274363092?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 812 7436 3092
Passcode: [REDACTED]
If you’re interested in joining, please contact Zandra at neo@nzdsa.org.nz.

Getting to the Good Life – The importance of having a Vision
2025-10-03 12:00 - 15:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
3rd October at 12pmFocus: Improved Futures-Improved Lives
Audience: All

It is your North Star
Gives power and strength when things go wrong

Soon after his birth, Garry and Bridget were determined to create a life for Alex that would follow the same path as his siblings. They wanted him to have a strong sense of belonging in his local neighbourhood. That he would be known and cared about because he contributed to community life. Alex would be educated with the local children, work, and eventually live in his own home. Today Alex has his own house and lives his life on his terms. Bridget understands what it takes for parents to create a vision for the future, plan for that future, and then make it happen for their son or daughter with Down syndrome. It takes a very long time, and the decisions made 30 years ago are being lived out today. Alex lives a good life because of the vision we held for him; he now has his own vision for his own future.
“A vision that clearly identifies in your mind your child’s rightful place in the world is essential to the pursuit of an inclusive life; to a good life in community” Quote: Bruce Uditski
Register here

Supported Independence in Action: Spencer’s Everyday Life
2025-10-04 16:00 - 18:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
4th October at 4pmMeeting ID: 826 6258 2918Passcode: [REDACTED]
Join Zoom Meeting

Achievements that Inspire - NZDSA Award Winners’ Panel
2025-10-04 16:30 - 18:30 | Zoom, New Zealand
4th October at 4.30pmMeeting ID: 880 8355 1384Passcode: [REDACTED]
Join Zoom Meeting

Coming Full Circle
2025-10-06 12:00 - 14:00 | Zoom, New Zealand
6th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Futures-Improved Lives
Audience: Parents, whānau and professionals
Krissy will talk about her journey as a parent of not one but two sons with Down syndrome. Krissy’s story includes initial birth and diagnosis, to living with a medically fragile child and his influence after a brief time in this world. Krissy also talks about a career and how that lead her to raising her second son and seeing him grow into an independent young man living his best life. This is a story of hope, love and inclusion.
Register here
