All Pūrākau-Stories Fanletter Information News
- One Decision. A Lasting Connection.
One volunteer experience inspired Holly to become one of Polar Plunge’s top fundraisers, helping create more opportunities for Special Olympics athletes. - High Fives and Friendship
High fives, friendship and a welcoming community. Discover how North Canterbury Club is helping people with intellectual disabilities grow through sport. - Daniella’s Drive to Inspire More Girls to Take Part in Sport
From local golf to international competition, Daniella is inspiring more girls and women with intellectual disabilities to be brave and have a go. - Creating Opportunities to Chase Dreams
Nathan went from trying basketball for the first time to representing New Zealand and coaching others. Support Polar Plunge and create more opportunities. - Onslow College baking a difference for the Polar Plunge
How Onslow College got behind the Polar Plunge with a student-led bake sale. - Ryan Smith Recognised for Leadership in Sport
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 Difference One Fundraiser Can Make
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. - Partnership in Action: Creating Opportunities Together
Organisations with shared values can create something bigger together. See how School Sport Canterbury and Special Olympics New Zealand do just that. - 2025 National Summer Games Named Finalist in NZEA Event Awards
The 2025 National Summer Games has been named a finalist in the Community or Not-for-Profit Event of the Year category at the NZEA Awards 2026, recognising the success and impact of New Zealand’s largest inclusive sporting event. - The Power of Connection, Belonging and Hauora
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. - 2025 National Summer Games receives Outstanding Contribution to Sport and Recreation Award
The Special Olympics New Zealand 2025 National Summer Games has been recognised at the annual Sport Canterbury Sport and Recreation Awards, taking home the Outstanding Contribution to Sport and Recreation Award. Hosted by Sport… Read more: 2025 National Summer Games receives Outstanding Contribution to Sport and Recreation Award - A Special Valentine’s Day That Lasts
Make this a Special Valentine’s Day. A gift in your will is a gift that lasts. Every gift — no matter the size — makes a lasting difference. - Star volunteer coach beating heart of Waikato Basketball
Volunteer coach Simone is the beating heart of Special Olympics Waikato Basketball - Countdown starts for National Summer Games!
200 days until the National Summer Games! - 200 Days to Go!
We’re celebrating 200 Days to Go until the National Summer Games and we have a special Club Challenge worth $1500! - 200 Days to Go Club Challenge!
200 Days to Go Club Challenge! $1500 for winning clubs! - Tiah comes out of her shell through Young Athletes
After almost four months in lockdown Tiah overcame her shyness through sport and play. - Graeme Bain: 26 years with Special Olympics
Graeme talks about the many joys of his time helping athletes discover the joy of sports. - Equestrian rider conquers challenges to compete at highest level
Equestrian rider Sarah Dalton personifies the spirit of the Special Olympics and will be chasing more medals in December. - Volunteers flock from all corners to 2021 National Summer Games
Dianne and Blair Payne are excited to be among the 600 volunteers who will support nearly 2000 athletes and coaches to participate in the Freemasons New Zealand Special Olympics National Summer Games in Hamilton. - Gordon Llewellyn – Give me the Chance
Gordon Llewellyn was one of the first four athletes in Special Olympics New Zealand (SONZ) and became an icon for the organisation and an advocate for the inclusion… Read more: Gordon Llewellyn – Give me the Chance - Special Olympics New Zealand wants lifelong equality for Kiwis with intellectual disabilities
Special Olympics New Zealand (SONZ) has launched a new campaign calling for help to reach out to every New Zealander with an intellectual disability who has ever been… Read more: Special Olympics New Zealand wants lifelong equality for Kiwis with intellectual disabilities - 10 years with Special Olympics New ZealandBy Grace Payne, Special Olympics New Zealand Athlete This year marks me being with Special Olympics for 10 years!! ?? Who would’ve knew 10 years can go so… Read more: 10 years with Special Olympics New Zealand