News & Updates

Paralympics New Zealand is marking ‘1 year to go’ to the rescheduled Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games with a celebration of all those Kiwis that support Paralympians and para athletes up and down the country.

Fiona Allan ONZM (Chief Executive, PNZ) said: “We are proud to celebrate and thank the many Kiwis that have throughout our 52-year history of the Paralympic movement in New Zealand shown their support and passion. This may be through working with individual para athletes to support them to be the best they can be, family members acting as the taxi driver to endless training sessions or as an armchair supporter watching the New Zealand Paralympic Team in action taking on the best in the world.”

She continued: “At a time when Kiwis are being asked to come together, be kind and think of others, we wanted to provide an opportunity for everyone to continue to show their support or perhaps connect with the New Zealand Paralympic Team for the first time. Today we launch the ‘Kiwi Crew’, the first ever supporters club of the New Zealand Paralympic Team and encourage all New Zealanders to sign up.”

Paula Tesoriero MNZM (Chef de Mission, New Zealand Paralympic Team – Tokyo 2020) said: “As a Paralympian and having competed at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games, I truly understand how important and impactful knowing you have the support of your nation behind you can be.”

She continued: “With the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games to 2021 our Paralympians, para athletes and support staff are re-setting and focusing on one goal at a time. Domestic events have provided an opportunity for competition and training camps have brought para athletes together to continue their build up.” 

Throughout the country, individuals and organisations that support Paralympians and para athletes have joined in the celebrations by telling their stories across social media.

One such story is that of para shot putter Ben Tuimaseve and his family network, including sister Jayde Tuimaseve, and cousins Marama Takai and Christian Tukutama.

New Zealanders can now show their support of the New Zealand Paralympic Team by joining the ‘Kiwi Crew’ supporters club. Kiwi Crew members will receive exclusive content, offers and much more. 

To sign up for the Kiwi Crew please click here