Latest news with #PNZ
Scoop
30-06-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Bupa Commits To Long Term Partnership With Paralympics New Zealand
Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) is thrilled to announce Bupa New Zealand as an Official Partner for the next three years. The partnership further cements the relationship between PNZ and the aged care and retirement village provider after Bupa partnered with PNZ to support the NZ Paralympic Team for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Bupa's values of supporting inclusion and access for all, align perfectly with those of PNZ and will help shine a light on the power of Para sport to transform lives. PNZ CEO Greg Warnecke said: 'We are delighted to welcome back Bupa as an Official Partner to Paralympics New Zealand and the NZ Paralympic Team. Bupa have already shown their commitment to supporting Para sport globally, and this will further solidify our partnership to grow the Paralympic Movement in Aotearoa New Zealand. 'It is always important for Paralympics New Zealand to partner with organisations that share our vision, and we look forward to working together to create greater awareness of Para sport opportunities for people with a disability throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.' Bupa New Zealand Managing Director Pedro Sanchez said: 'We're incredibly proud to commit to a long-term partnership with Paralympics New Zealand. 'Para athletes represent the very best of human spirit – people who have faced challenges and risen to perform at the highest level. Their stories inspire our people, our residents, and our communities. 'We're honoured to stand alongside Paralympics New Zealand as a strong local partner, helping champion equity, mental and physical wellbeing, and the power of sport to change lives,' he said. About the NZ Paralympic Team NZ Paralympic Team strives to challenge perceptions towards disability, showcasing high performance athletes who prove anything is possible. Since Tel Aviv 1968 Paralympic Games, 237 New Zealand Paralympians have been part of New Zealand Paralympic Teams competing at 27 Paralympic Games (15 summer and 12 winter) winning a staggering 245 medals (210 in summer and 35 in winter). About Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) Paralympics New Zealand is the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) for New Zealand. We are a charity and our overall vision is 'Transforming lives through Para sport'. As a member of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), we are part of a worldwide social change movement, which uses the power of sport to positively influence community perceptions of disabled people and to promote a more diverse and inclusive society. To do this, we support and celebrate the achievements of Para athletes at international and national competitions all year round. Every two years, we lead New Zealand teams to the Paralympic Games. We also work in the local community to advocate for sport to become more accessible for disabled people and to support the creation of more systems and programmes to enable participation in Para sport. Our funding comes from a mix of public donations, fundraisers, philanthropic partners, commercial partners, plus government and community grants, which together make our Para sport, community and advocacy programmes possible. To find out more about us, please visit about us: To support Paralympics New Zealand click here: Join the conversation on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Scoop
17-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Macpac To Supply Kit For NZ Paralympic Team At Milano Cortina 2026
Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) is delighted to unveil Macpac as the official apparel supplier of the NZ Paralympic Team for the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games (6-15 March 2026). The iconic New Zealand-based brand, which specialises in technical outdoor apparel and equipment, will kit out the NZ Paralympic Team, including high tech insulation, outerwear and rainwear. With the same design philosophy Macpac uses to equip explorers, mountaineers and adventurers, every item has been carefully selected to support the Para athletes' needs as they aim to perform with pride for New Zealand at Milano Cortina 2026. Equipping outdoor enthusiasts since 1973, Macpac was also the official apparel supplier for PNZ and the NZ Paralympic Team at the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games. PNZ CEO Greg Warnecke said: 'We are thrilled to announce Macpac as our apparel partner for the NZ Paralympic Team at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. Macpac is a hugely recognisable and highly respected New Zealand brand that strongly aligns with our value of excellence and demonstrates the same performance and resilience as our Para athletes do, in reaching the pinnacle of their sport. 'We are delighted to partner with Macpac for a second successive Paralympic Winter Games and our Paralympians and support staff at the Paralympic Winter Games will benefit from Macpac's quality products, all with a strong connection to home.' Macpac Managing Director Cathy Seaholme said: 'We're incredibly proud to once again support Paralympics New Zealand and the NZ Paralympic Team. PNZ share our spirit of determination under pressure, grit in the face of adversity and an ability to adapt, persist and perform no matter the challenge, values which deeply resonate with Macpac. It's a privilege to help them represent Aotearoa New Zealand on the world stage.' Notes: About the New Zealand Paralympic Team NZ Paralympic Team strives to challenge perceptions towards disability, showcasing high performance athletes who prove anything is possible. Since Tel Aviv 1968 Paralympic Games, 237 New Zealand Paralympians have been part of New Zealand Paralympic Teams competing at 27 Paralympic Games (15 summer and 12 winter) winning a staggering 245 medals (210 in summer and 35 in winter). About Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) Paralympics New Zealand is the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) for New Zealand. We are a charity and our overall vision is 'Transforming lives through Para sport'. As a member of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), we are part of a worldwide social change movement, which uses the power of sport to positively influence community perceptions of disabled people and to promote a more diverse and inclusive society. To do this, we support and celebrate the achievements of Para athletes at international and national competitions all year round. Every two years, we lead New Zealand teams to the Paralympic Games. We also work in the local community to advocate for sport to become more accessible for disabled people and to support the creation of more systems and programmes to enable participation in Para sport. Our funding comes from a mix of public donations, fundraisers, philanthropic partners, commercial partners, plus government and community grants, which together make our Para sport, community and advocacy programmes possible.
Scoop
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Sharman And Scott-Vincent Receive Order Of Merit Pins From IPC President
Press Release – Paralympics New Zealand International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons presented Order of Merit pins to Paralympian #107 Grant Sharman MNZM and TV producer and director Robyn Scott-Vincent MNZM at the Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) offices in Auckland (Thursday 22 May). Established in 2001, PNZ recognises individuals who have given outstanding service to the organisation and Paralympic sport by awarding them a PNZ Order of Merit. Following a rugby accident at school and becoming the first patient at the Otara Spinal Unit, Grant has stood out like a beacon for his unwavering dedication and commitment to the disability sports sector. Moving into the sport of Wheelchair rugby, the Aucklander became captain of the Wheel Blacks and claimed successive bronze medals at the Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games before coaching the Wheel Blacks to an unforgettable gold medal at the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games. Following his retirement from Wheelchair rugby, Grant returned to competitive sport as a Shooting Para sport exponent – reaching several World Cup finals. Demonstrating an exceptional level of passion and selflessness in his service to disabled individuals, Grant has left an indelible mark on the sector. A Board member of Disability Sport Auckland and former Chair at Parafed Auckland, he also worked as PNZ High Performance Director. A commentator for TVNZ at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Grant also worked as a presenter and associate producer with Attitude TV for many years. In 2004 he received the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the disabled community and sport, the following year he won Aucklander of the Year. Grant also received the Sir Eion and Jan, Lady Edgar Lifetime Achievement Award for services for the Disability Sports Sector in 2024. Sharman said of receiving his Order of Merit Pin: 'It's always a nice feeling to be acknowledged for achievement or service, even more so when it is from an organisation that you've been a part of since its inception. When I broke my neck at 15 playing rugby, I never in my wildest dreams envisaged wearing the Silver Fern and representing my country. Through my involvement with Wheelchair Rugby, the International Paralympic movement, and especially Paralympics New Zealand, that became a reality and something that I and my family are immensely proud. Any form of worthwhile success is grounded in hard work, commitment, sacrifice and importantly the support of good people. To be awarded the PNZ Order of Merit is a huge honour and knowing the previous recipients, a most humbling experience.' TV producer and director Robyn Scott-Vincent has done so much for Para sport through her company – Attitude Pictures Ltd, the world's largest producer of disability focused content. A staple of New Zealand television since 2005 – Robyn has produced more than 700 episodes of Attitude, and more than 60 programmes around Paralympic athletes. bringing countless Para sport stars to life from Paralympian #158 Adam Hall MNZM #166 Dame Sophie Pascoe DNZM, #195 Anna Grimaldi MNZM and #197 Liam Malone MNZM. Attitude secured the Paralympic broadcast rights in 2013, and in partnerships with TVNZ delivered coverage of the Paralympic Games at London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. As an advocate on behalf of the disabled community, her goals are to inspire people living with a disability to live their life to the fullest, to provide strong role models for our young people and to inspire change. In 2014 she was named a Member of the Order of New Zealand Merit for services to both television and the disabled. She is one of the founders of the Attitude Awards and has ensured all content is available to view free on YouTube. Scott-Vincent said: 'As a former sports journalist it has been a highlight of my career, and a real privilege to work in partnership with PNZ and alongside the many wonderful Para athletes who trusted us to tell their stories. We've collaborated and used the power of television to showcase Para athletes' grit and resilience, and in the process we've helped to reshape the way all Kiwis regard all disabled people. Across the past 21 years it has been gratifying to see a real shift whereby the public now truly respect Paralympic athletes as elite sportsmen and women. It's been one heck of a journey.' PNZ Chair Jana Rangooni said: 'Grant and Robyn have both played an invaluable role in helping change the way New Zealanders view disability, and the Paralympic Movement has benefited greatly from their tireless efforts. 'Grant has left a huge imprint on Para sport in Aotearoa New Zealand thanks to his efforts as Paralympian, coach and in a variety of administrative roles which has helped pave the way for what Para sport looks like today. 'Robyn has been a long-standing advocate for the disabled in Aotearoa New Zealand. Her inspirational work in bringing the stories of so many Para athletes to life has had a profound impact on changing the narrative on how the disabled are perceived.' 'The pair are worthy recipients of the Order of the Merit and I have no doubt they will continue to challenge for more change to remove barriers for the disabled in Aotearoa New Zealand.'
Scoop
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Sharman And Scott-Vincent Receive Order Of Merit Pins From IPC President
Press Release – Paralympics New Zealand Established in 2001, PNZ recognises individuals who have given outstanding service to the organisation and Paralympic sport by awarding them a PNZ Order of Merit. International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons presented Order of Merit pins to Paralympian #107 Grant Sharman MNZM and TV producer and director Robyn Scott-Vincent MNZM at the Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) offices in Auckland (Thursday 22 May). Established in 2001, PNZ recognises individuals who have given outstanding service to the organisation and Paralympic sport by awarding them a PNZ Order of Merit. Following a rugby accident at school and becoming the first patient at the Otara Spinal Unit, Grant has stood out like a beacon for his unwavering dedication and commitment to the disability sports sector. Moving into the sport of Wheelchair rugby, the Aucklander became captain of the Wheel Blacks and claimed successive bronze medals at the Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games before coaching the Wheel Blacks to an unforgettable gold medal at the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games. Following his retirement from Wheelchair rugby, Grant returned to competitive sport as a Shooting Para sport exponent – reaching several World Cup finals. Demonstrating an exceptional level of passion and selflessness in his service to disabled individuals, Grant has left an indelible mark on the sector. A Board member of Disability Sport Auckland and former Chair at Parafed Auckland, he also worked as PNZ High Performance Director. A commentator for TVNZ at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Grant also worked as a presenter and associate producer with Attitude TV for many years. In 2004 he received the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the disabled community and sport, the following year he won Aucklander of the Year. Grant also received the Sir Eion and Jan, Lady Edgar Lifetime Achievement Award for services for the Disability Sports Sector in 2024. Sharman said of receiving his Order of Merit Pin: 'It's always a nice feeling to be acknowledged for achievement or service, even more so when it is from an organisation that you've been a part of since its inception. When I broke my neck at 15 playing rugby, I never in my wildest dreams envisaged wearing the Silver Fern and representing my country. Through my involvement with Wheelchair Rugby, the International Paralympic movement, and especially Paralympics New Zealand, that became a reality and something that I and my family are immensely proud. Any form of worthwhile success is grounded in hard work, commitment, sacrifice and importantly the support of good people. To be awarded the PNZ Order of Merit is a huge honour and knowing the previous recipients, a most humbling experience.' TV producer and director Robyn Scott-Vincent has done so much for Para sport through her company – Attitude Pictures Ltd, the world's largest producer of disability focused content. A staple of New Zealand television since 2005 – Robyn has produced more than 700 episodes of Attitude, and more than 60 programmes around Paralympic athletes. bringing countless Para sport stars to life from Paralympian #158 Adam Hall MNZM #166 Dame Sophie Pascoe DNZM, #195 Anna Grimaldi MNZM and #197 Liam Malone MNZM. Attitude secured the Paralympic broadcast rights in 2013, and in partnerships with TVNZ delivered coverage of the Paralympic Games at London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. As an advocate on behalf of the disabled community, her goals are to inspire people living with a disability to live their life to the fullest, to provide strong role models for our young people and to inspire change. In 2014 she was named a Member of the Order of New Zealand Merit for services to both television and the disabled. She is one of the founders of the Attitude Awards and has ensured all content is available to view free on YouTube. Scott-Vincent said: 'As a former sports journalist it has been a highlight of my career, and a real privilege to work in partnership with PNZ and alongside the many wonderful Para athletes who trusted us to tell their stories. We've collaborated and used the power of television to showcase Para athletes' grit and resilience, and in the process we've helped to reshape the way all Kiwis regard all disabled people. Across the past 21 years it has been gratifying to see a real shift whereby the public now truly respect Paralympic athletes as elite sportsmen and women. It's been one heck of a journey.' PNZ Chair Jana Rangooni said: 'Grant and Robyn have both played an invaluable role in helping change the way New Zealanders view disability, and the Paralympic Movement has benefited greatly from their tireless efforts. 'Grant has left a huge imprint on Para sport in Aotearoa New Zealand thanks to his efforts as Paralympian, coach and in a variety of administrative roles which has helped pave the way for what Para sport looks like today. 'Robyn has been a long-standing advocate for the disabled in Aotearoa New Zealand. Her inspirational work in bringing the stories of so many Para athletes to life has had a profound impact on changing the narrative on how the disabled are perceived.' 'The pair are worthy recipients of the Order of the Merit and I have no doubt they will continue to challenge for more change to remove barriers for the disabled in Aotearoa New Zealand.'
Scoop
22-05-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Sharman And Scott-Vincent Receive Order Of Merit Pins From IPC President
International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons presented Order of Merit pins to Paralympian #107 Grant Sharman MNZM and TV producer and director Robyn Scott-Vincent MNZM at the Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) offices in Auckland (Thursday 22 May). Established in 2001, PNZ recognises individuals who have given outstanding service to the organisation and Paralympic sport by awarding them a PNZ Order of Merit. Following a rugby accident at school and becoming the first patient at the Otara Spinal Unit, Grant has stood out like a beacon for his unwavering dedication and commitment to the disability sports sector. Moving into the sport of Wheelchair rugby, the Aucklander became captain of the Wheel Blacks and claimed successive bronze medals at the Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games before coaching the Wheel Blacks to an unforgettable gold medal at the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games. Following his retirement from Wheelchair rugby, Grant returned to competitive sport as a Shooting Para sport exponent – reaching several World Cup finals. Demonstrating an exceptional level of passion and selflessness in his service to disabled individuals, Grant has left an indelible mark on the sector. A Board member of Disability Sport Auckland and former Chair at Parafed Auckland, he also worked as PNZ High Performance Director. A commentator for TVNZ at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Grant also worked as a presenter and associate producer with Attitude TV for many years. In 2004 he received the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the disabled community and sport, the following year he won Aucklander of the Year. Grant also received the Sir Eion and Jan, Lady Edgar Lifetime Achievement Award for services for the Disability Sports Sector in 2024. Sharman said of receiving his Order of Merit Pin: "It's always a nice feeling to be acknowledged for achievement or service, even more so when it is from an organisation that you've been a part of since its inception. When I broke my neck at 15 playing rugby, I never in my wildest dreams envisaged wearing the Silver Fern and representing my country. Through my involvement with Wheelchair Rugby, the International Paralympic movement, and especially Paralympics New Zealand, that became a reality and something that I and my family are immensely proud. Any form of worthwhile success is grounded in hard work, commitment, sacrifice and importantly the support of good people. To be awarded the PNZ Order of Merit is a huge honour and knowing the previous recipients, a most humbling experience.' TV producer and director Robyn Scott-Vincent has done so much for Para sport through her company – Attitude Pictures Ltd, the world's largest producer of disability focused content. A staple of New Zealand television since 2005 – Robyn has produced more than 700 episodes of Attitude, and more than 60 programmes around Paralympic athletes. bringing countless Para sport stars to life from Paralympian #158 Adam Hall MNZM #166 Dame Sophie Pascoe DNZM, #195 Anna Grimaldi MNZM and #197 Liam Malone MNZM. Attitude secured the Paralympic broadcast rights in 2013, and in partnerships with TVNZ delivered coverage of the Paralympic Games at London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. As an advocate on behalf of the disabled community, her goals are to inspire people living with a disability to live their life to the fullest, to provide strong role models for our young people and to inspire change. In 2014 she was named a Member of the Order of New Zealand Merit for services to both television and the disabled. She is one of the founders of the Attitude Awards and has ensured all content is available to view free on YouTube. Scott-Vincent said: 'As a former sports journalist it has been a highlight of my career, and a real privilege to work in partnership with PNZ and alongside the many wonderful Para athletes who trusted us to tell their stories. We've collaborated and used the power of television to showcase Para athletes' grit and resilience, and in the process we've helped to reshape the way all Kiwis regard all disabled people. Across the past 21 years it has been gratifying to see a real shift whereby the public now truly respect Paralympic athletes as elite sportsmen and women. It's been one heck of a journey.' PNZ Chair Jana Rangooni said: 'Grant and Robyn have both played an invaluable role in helping change the way New Zealanders view disability, and the Paralympic Movement has benefited greatly from their tireless efforts. 'Grant has left a huge imprint on Para sport in Aotearoa New Zealand thanks to his efforts as Paralympian, coach and in a variety of administrative roles which has helped pave the way for what Para sport looks like today. 'Robyn has been a long-standing advocate for the disabled in Aotearoa New Zealand. Her inspirational work in bringing the stories of so many Para athletes to life has had a profound impact on changing the narrative on how the disabled are perceived.' 'The pair are worthy recipients of the Order of the Merit and I have no doubt they will continue to challenge for more change to remove barriers for the disabled in Aotearoa New Zealand.'
