Tiaho Trust

Category: National

  • Save the date: Getting Out There EXPO 2025 – Accessible Horizons: Experience Inclusion

    Friday 8 August | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Forum North, Whangārei

    Tiaho Trust is proud to present Te Tai Tokerau’s premier event celebrating accessibility, inclusion, and community connection – the Getting Out There EXPO 2025.

    This free event brings together over 50 stallholders, from mobility and disability equipment providers to senior support organisations, health services, and community groups, all in one place. With the theme “Accessible Horizons – Experience Inclusion,” the EXPO is dedicated to connecting disabled people and senior citizens with the services, support, and tools they need to live full and independent lives.

    Attendees will enjoy a lively and engaging day that includes:

    • A fashion parade showcasing confidence and self-expression
    • Spot prizes throughout the day
    • Recognition of Northland’s most accessible and inclusive places, nominated by the community through Tiaho Trust’s recent disability survey

    This year’s event also offers a fantastic opportunity to meet the businesses and organisations that have been recognised by our community as leaders in accessibility and inclusion. Come along and discover what they’re doing to make a difference.

    Who Will Be There?
    Here’s a sneak peek at some of the amazing stallholders you can connect with on the day. View the floor plan here:

    Alzheimers NZ, Access Community Health, Anglican Care Centre, Arthritis NZ, Blind Foundation, Blind Low Vision, Brain Injury Trust, Catherine Berrisford Brain Injury, Citizens Advice Bureau, Continence NZ, Create Abilities, CS Travel, Deaf Aotearoa, Disability Sport, Down Syndrome, Drake Medox, EGL Tai Tokerau Leadership Group, Epilepsy NZ, Falls Estate, Freedom Mobility, Geneva Healthcare, Greypower, Halberg Highwise Leadership, Home Support North, Huntingtons, IHC, Idea Services, Julia Tapp – Airbrush tattoos, Liam Astbury – photography, Mahitahi Hauora, Melrose Kiwi Chairs, MS Northland, Muscular Dystrophy Norhtland, NorthAble, NorthAble Equipment, NorthTec, NZ Fire services, Papermill, Parafed Northland, Parkinsons NZ, Parkrun Whangārei, Permobil NZ, Perpetual Guardian, Reid Technology, Resonate Health, Riding for the Disabled, Security Alert Medical Alarms, Senior ASAP Trust, Spectrum Care, St Johns Ambulance Alarms, Stroke Foundation, Supascootas/city mobility, Te Wana, Te Waananga o Aotearoa, Te Whatu Ora, THOON, Tiaho Trust, TLC4u2, Trikes NZ, Whangarei Accessible Housing, Whangarei Care Centre, Whangārei District Council, Whangarei Parkrun

    This impressive line-up highlights the depth of support available across the region – all under one roof, for one day only!

    Download the event flyer

    ? Friday, 8 August 2025 | Forum North, Whangārei | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    ? Free entry – everyone welcome!

    We can’t wait to welcome you to this vibrant celebration of connection, inclusion, and empowerment.

  • Creating an inclusive Northland: Survey insights

    At Tiaho Trust, we believe that Aotearoa New Zealand should be a place where everyone—regardless of ability—can access and enjoy their community with dignity. To better understand the realities of access and inclusion across Te Tai Tokerau/Northland, we asked members of the public to share their experiences through a recent survey. The response was powerful, honest, and filled with ideas for a better future.
    Here’s what we heard.

    Who took part in the survey?

    We were humbled by the range of people who took the time to respond:
    • 35% live with a disability
    • 26% are carers
    • 14% have a disabled whānau member
    • 15% work for businesses or community organisations
    • 10% selected “Other”
    The voices in this survey are rich in lived experience. They’re voices that deserve to be heard—and acted upon.

    Tourism locations: A mixed experience

    Tourism spots in Northland were seen by some as welcoming and accessible, with places like Whangārei’s Hātea Loop, Hundertwasser Art Centre, Quarry Gardens, and the Duke of Marlborough singled out for praise.
    But others shared the challenges they face:
    • Limited or unsafe mobility parking
    • Inaccessible footpaths and steep kerbs
    • Hotel bathrooms that claim to be accessible, but aren’t
    • A lack of activities suitable for neurodivergent young people
    • Staff unaware of how to support those with invisible disabilities
    As one respondent put it:

    “Hotels advertise accessible bathrooms, but few are up to standard.”

    Community Spaces: Room to grow

    While places like Whangārei Library, Town Basin, the WDC Council Building, and Te Ahu Centre in Kaitaia were mentioned as more inclusive, the message overall was that most community spaces are only “somewhat” accessible.

    Suggestions included:

    • Ramps and level pathways
    • Adult changing tables and hoist-equipped bathrooms
    • More mobility parking in well-designed locations
    • Better signage and seating
    • Spaces for sensory regulation and calm

    The call was clear: we need more accessible and welcoming spaces where everyone feels they belong.

    Man in a wheelchair on top of a hill looking out to the sunrise

    Businesses: Some leading the way

    Businesses like Mitre 10, The Warehouse, Mokaba Café, and the Hihiaua Art Centre were celebrated for their access features and respectful service. The most valued aspects of accessibility in commercial spaces were:
    • Step-free entrances
    • Friendly, trained staff
    • Accessible bathrooms
    • Clear signage
    • Availability of mobility aids
    But there’s work to be done. Respondents told us that narrow aisles, poor lighting, and uninformed customer service can make simple outings feel exhausting or unsafe.

    The biggest barriers

    Across all settings, certain barriers came up again and again:
    • Poor or unsafe mobility parking
    • Steps and uneven walkways
    • Inadequate toilet facilities
    • Unhelpful attitudes from staff or the public
    • Lack of understanding of invisible disabilities and neurodiversity

    “People don’t realise how hard it is to manoeuvre a manual wheelchair in some of these shops.”

    Your recommendations for change

    The survey didn’t just surface challenges—it also brought forward practical, inspiring solutions. You told us Northland needs:
    • Sensory-friendly spaces for people on the autism spectrum
    • Beach access mats and equipment at places like Ocean Beach
    • Awareness campaigns about unconscious bias and disability
    • Better design for public toilets, crossings, and paths
    • Stronger enforcement around mobility parking
    • A regional map or register showing accessible (and inaccessible) locations

    Looking ahead

    We hear you. Your voices have given us a clear roadmap for advocacy and action.

    At Tiaho Trust, we’re committed to working with local councils, tourism operators, businesses, and the disability community to create a more inclusive Northland. That means listening deeply, planning thoughtfully, and ensuring that people with disabilities are included at every step.
    Because access isn’t a privilege—it’s a right.

    Ngā mihi nui to everyone who shared their story. Together, we can build a region where everyone thrives.

    If you are a business or an organisation interested in improving accessibility and inclusivity in Northland, view our stallholder and sponsorship opportunities for the upcoming Getting Out There EXPO

  • Want a stall at the Getting Out There EXPO

    Secure your stall at the Getting Out There EXPO – Book your stall today

    Downloadable Stallholder application form: Stallholder form – final

    Date: Friday, 8 August 2025
    Location: Forum North, Whangarei
    Time: 9am-4pm

    [button link="http://tiaho.vpx.energiseweb.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/EXPO-stallholder-info_4.pdf" color="black" newwindow="yes"] Stallholder Info Pack[/button]

    Join us at the Getting Out There EXPO 2025 and take an active role in shaping a more accessible and inclusive Northland. With the theme “Accessible Horizons – Experience Inclusion,” this one-day event is a unique opportunity for businesses, service providers, and organisations to engage directly with disabled people, seniors, their whānau, and carers.

    With 23% of Northlanders identifying as disabled—the highest percentage in New Zealand—this is your chance to connect with an engaged audience eager for solutions, support, and services that improve accessibility and quality of life.commitment to inclusion.

    Why Exhibit at the EXPO?

    • Connect with your target audience – Engage directly with seniors, disabled people, and their support networks.
    • Raise awareness & build trust – Show your commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
    • Increase your brand visibility – Promote your products, services, or support initiatives to a community eager for solutions.
    • Network & collaborate – Meet like-minded organisations, businesses, and advocates working toward a more accessible future.
    • Drive business & community impact – Gain valuable insights and customer connections while supporting inclusion in Northland.Sponsorship Opportunities

    Secure your Stall – Limited spaces available!

    Stallholder spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
    ? Download the Stallholder Information Pack to learn more about pricing, setup details, and how to book your space.
    ? Register your interest today and join us in making Northland more accessible!

    Want to do even more? Become a Sponsor

    If you’re passionate about driving accessibility and inclusion, consider sponsoring the Getting Out There EXPO 2025. As a sponsor, you’ll receive premium visibility, brand exposure, and the opportunity to showcase your leadership in making Northland more inclusive.
    Explore sponsorship opportunities here

    Promo graphic for potential stallholders at the Getting Out There Exposition

     

    #AccessibleHorizons #ExperienceInclusion #InclusiveBusiness #NorthlandLeadership #AccessibilityForAll

  • Are you concerned, upset or confused about the recent decisions made as a result of the independent review into Whaikaha? Join the Te Tai Tokerau whaikaha community in a peaceful protest in the WDC Civic Square on Rust Avenue, Friday 11th October at noon.

    Downloadable: Protest Flier

     

  • ACTIVISM training for disabled people with Sue Bradford

    Sue Bradford workshop flier 26June24

    ACTIVISM training for disabled people with Sue Bradford.

    Bio on Sue Bradford: 

    Sue Bradford grew up in a politically engaged family that deeply influenced her activism for causes such as anti-Vietnam War protests, anti-apartheid campaigns, and the feminist movement. Her grassroots activism led to her becoming a founding member of the Auckland Unemployed Workers’ Rights Centre and the Auckland People’s Centre.

    Sue also championed issues such as workers’ rights, housing, and the environment. She was instrumental in advocating for the introduction of the minimum wage for youth and improved conditions for beneficiaries. Her dedication to these causes earned her respect across the political spectrum, even from those who disagreed with her views.

    Sue continues to advocate for systemic change to address social inequalities.

    The first session will be workshop-style with another leadership session a few weeks later, where potential leaders in the whaikaha space can work on specific areas of systems change. Both will be at no cost.

    Registrations are essential, please email: tessa@tiaho.org.nz or text  027 555 1297 to reserve a spot

    Kaitaia workshops

    There will also be workshops in the beginning of August and end of August, for Potential Disabled Leaders. If you would like to be part of this please email: tessa@tiaho.org.nz or text 027 555 1297

     

     

     

  • Enabling Good Lives Workshop in Northland – run by Tiaho Trust

    Tiaho Trust are running hui  to support Disabled people (under 65 yrs old) and their whanau to develop plans to have a Good Life that can be used to fast track your goals when working with NASC. The first workshop will be carried out in Whangarei on the 26th July, followed by Kaikohe on the 3rd August, then Kaitaia on the 9th August and finally Dargaville on the 14th August. For further information either download the flyers below or ring Sam on 027 239 3248 or email sam@tiaho.org,nz

    Downloadable A4 Panui:

    Whangarei:  Whangarei Panui

    Kaitaia: Kaitaia Panui

    Dargaville: Dargaville Panui

    Kaikohe: Kaikohe Panui

  • Getting Out There EXPO – 11 August 2023

    Downloadable flyer:  Getting out there expo flyer A4

    We’re back!!  After 2 years of trying to host this biannual EXPO and we are finally able to host this Uniquely Northland event, showcasing services and equipment for disabled people and elderly.

    If you would like to be part of this event please contact Arlene Carter by emailing arlene@tiaho.org.nz or ringing 09 430 3406

     

  • Public Trust Enduring Powers of Attorney’s and Wills

    There are options on creating Enduring Power of Attorneys (EPA’s) via the Public Trust website online or by making an appointment. Please note: We do not know if they are meeting clients face to face during Covid 19 restrictions, contact (0800-371-471 prior). The cost of each Enduring Power of Attorneys (Medical or Property) is $289. While this appears to be a set rate note that if your EPA is complex it could incur additional fees. If in doubt ask for a quote. These prices are very competitive.

    Go into the Public Trust website and click on Product and Services. There you will find where to go to create a EPA.

    You can also create your own Will online, a Basic online Will costs $69, Standard online Will costs $119 and a Comprehensive online Will costs $169.

    Important – If your loved one is starting to forget things and may possibly have undiagnosed Dementia or Alzheimer’s it is important to have EPA’s and Wills in place prior to that medical diagnosis. Otherwise it maybe viewed that this person “no longer of sound mind” and the process will become a lot more complicated.

  • Emergency Services Contacts during lockdown

    Disability Roopu Services

    Lockdown August 2021 – Tim Howard

    Government Emergency contact list

    There are two PDF downloads above, one is for Community Groups in Whangarei/Northland and the other is for Northland Disability Contacts for the Disability Advisory Information Services Collective (DIAS Collective). We have also added the Government Welfare contact list.

    Please don’t hesitate in contacting these groups if you need any assistance. If you are struggling to get support we maybe able to help you so either contact:

    CEO – Jonny Wilkinson – Cell: 027 277 9333  email:  jonny@tiaho.org.nz

    EA to CEO – Arlene Carter – Cell: 021 2022 706   email: arlene@tiaho.org.nz

    DIAS Outreach Coordinator – Leah Petersen  Cell: 012 121 1867  email: leah@tiaho.org.nz

  • Kind Hands – Child respite Centre – Whangarei

    Did You know we have a Children’s Disability or Medically Fragile Respite Care support facility here in Whangarei? Its called Kind Hands and is in Morningside.

    Kind Hands was specially built for babies and children who have disabilities and or are medically fragile.  All needs of the child are catered for individually.

    We have trained nurses on every shift and will soon also have an ECE teacher.

    Our vision

    “ To provide a trusting caring environment for children with additional needs that encompasses specialised health care and valuable education opportunities, in a home away from home environment embracing all Whanau”

     

    For further information contact Sharlene on  09 459-7383 or go on their website www.hdc.org.nz

    Kind Hands Brochure