Sport NZ releases report on the future of sport and active recreation for disabled New Zealanders

The latest report from Sport NZ on the future of sport and active recreation for disabled New Zealanders is now available. This report outlines key opportunities to shape the future and better understand the challenges faced by disabled people.  

The latest data shows that one in six New Zealanders experience disability, and disabled people are currently less active than their non-disabled peers.

To improve outcomes for disabled people, Sport NZ collaborated with their national disability partners (Halberg Foundation, Paralympics New Zealand, and Special Olympics New Zealand). Together, they initiated a strategic foresight process with wider sector representatives to challenge existing assumptions, identify emerging trends, and explore alternative future scenarios.

The strategic foresight process aimed to improve future resilience of organisations working in the provision of disability sport and recreation by:

• Challenging existing assumptions that may be shaping strategic decision-making in disability sport and recreation.

• Identifying emerging trends and transformations that  may impact the future operating environment of disability sport and recreation.

• Exploring alternative future scenarios to broaden thinking and potential responses beyond a single assumed future.

Through surveys, workshops, and expert consultations, the process focused on a five to ten-year outlook to develop strategies for more effective and inclusive sport and recreation opportunities for disabled people in New Zealand.

The resulting report summarises and analyses the strategic foresight process. While not exclusively applicable to the partnering organisations, the findings aim to assign action items to appropriate entities within the sector, addressing the disparities in health, wellbeing, and quality of life outcomes experienced by disabled people.

This collaborative effort seeks to chart a path forward that acknowledges the diverse needs of disabled people and aims to improve their access to quality sport and recreation experiences, potentially impacting their educational outcomes, future employment prospects, and overall life trajectories.

The report includes key findings from this process and emphasises the need for a proactive, collaborative approach to address challenges and opportunities.