Pūrākau-Stories - Special Olympics New Zealand

Choosing to Get Involved

sonz_admin — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 04:56:23 +0000

You don't need a personal connection to Special Olympics New Zealand to make a lasting difference. Adele Adams' story shows how one decision to get involved became 17 years of creating opportunities for others.

The post Choosing to Get Involved first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

High Fives and Friendship

sonz_admin — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 23:56:37 +0000

High fives, friendship and a welcoming community. Discover how North Canterbury Club is helping people with intellectual disabilities grow through sport.

The post High Fives and Friendship first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

Daniella’s Drive to Inspire More Girls to Take Part in Sport

sonz_admin — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:51:01 +0000

From local golf to international competition, Daniella is inspiring more girls and women with intellectual disabilities to be brave and have a go.

The post Daniella’s Drive to Inspire More Girls to Take Part in Sport first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

Creating Opportunities to Chase Dreams

sonz_admin — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:01:35 +0000

Nathan went from trying basketball for the first time to representing New Zealand and coaching others. Support Polar Plunge and create more opportunities.

The post Creating Opportunities to Chase Dreams first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

Ryan Smith Recognised for Leadership in Sport

sonz_admin — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 20:56:59 +0000

Ryan Smith has been recognised for leadership in sport, winning Disabled Sportsperson of the Year and showing what can be possible when athletes are supported to participate and grow.

The post Ryan Smith Recognised for Leadership in Sport first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

The Difference One Fundraiser Can Make

sonz_admin — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 03:59:25 +0000

Inspired by our athletes, Duaan raised more than $2,000 for Hutt Valley Club and is now taking on Polar Plunge. Read his story and learn why fundraising helps create opportunities that last far beyond the challenge itself.

The post The Difference One Fundraiser Can Make first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

The Power of Connection, Belonging and Hauora

sonz_admin — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

For Hunter and his whānau, Special Olympics New Zealand has provided much more than sport. He has built confidence, independence, friendships and a sense of belonging, while finding a community where he is understood, encouraged and supported to be himself.

The post The Power of Connection, Belonging and Hauora first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

Class of 2022 Athlete Leaders

sonz_admin — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 13:45:00 +0000

Learn what this year’s Athlete leaders learnt at their third workshop in preparation for their graduation in September.

The post Class of 2022 Athlete Leaders first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

Every athlete wins in Healthy Athletes Programme

sonz_admin — Sun, 28 Aug 2022 00:45:45 +0000

Hear Waikato nurse Janet’s story about volunteering at this National Summer Games’ Healthy Athletes programme to improve health outcomes for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

The post Every athlete wins in Healthy Athletes Programme first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.

Grace Payne wins global Special Olympics award

sonz_admin — Thu, 21 Jul 2022 02:55:00 +0000

pecial Olympics New Zealand athlete leader Grace Payne has been recognised for her tireless advocacy work for people with intellectual disabilities at the 2022 Global Youth Summit.

The post Grace Payne wins global Special Olympics award first appeared on Special Olympics New Zealand.