Connecting over shared experiences

Waipahihi Hall was alive with conversation at the Taupō Disability Focus Inclusion Hui last week.

By Taupō District Council senior community development advisor Gillian Smith

Taupō came together last week to celebrate inclusion, connection and accessibility at the Taupō Disability Focus Inclusion Hui at Waipahihi Hall.

The event brought together people with lived experience of disability and additional needs, whānau, service providers, community organisations and supporters for an afternoon of connection, information sharing and inclusive activities.

Misfitz Gym coordinated a hip-hop dance session in partnership with the Xtend Group, while Kate delivered a chair yoga session.

Sport Waikato and the Taupō Sports Advisory Council led a range of sporting activities, and Active Arts facilitated creative arts and crafts sessions.

Taupō Disability Focus was established by Taupō District Council’s Community Development Team in 2025 as a community-led initiative, with a vision to build a more inclusive, connected and empowered Taupō District.

Since then, it has grown into a strong network of people with lived experience, whānau and organisations working together to raise awareness, improve accessibility and strengthen inclusion.

The Inclusion Hui also marked an exciting milestone in the group’s journey, as Taupō Disability Focus has just formed as a Charitable Trust.

The event demonstrated the power of bringing people together and highlighted the importance of listening to lived experience, building connections and working collaboratively to remove barriers and create positive change.

Taupō Disability Focus is proving that when a community comes together with a shared vision, great things can happen. Together, we can create a district where everyone feels seen, valued, included and able to participate.

For more information please email: taupodisabilityfocus@gmail.com