Everyone with an intellectual disability is welcome in Special Olympics New Zealand.
When you donate to Special Olympics New Zealand, you are gifting a child or adult with an intellectual disability the joy of competition, the thrill of achievement, the long-term benefits of physical activity, and a sense of belonging.
Through Special Olympics, athletes are empowered to be leaders in society. They’re given opportunities to learn skills that transcend the playing field. Athletes hold jobs, go to school, and are active members in their communities.
Special Olympics New Zealand has grown from four swimmers in 1983 to the over 6,000 athletes it serves today. But we have a long way to go.
Approximately 1% of the population – around 44,000 New Zealanders have an intellectual disability.