Disability Activity Directory

Age Concern

Steady-As-You-Go Classes: A combination of strength and balance exercise, stretching and light cardiovascular exercises based on the Otago Exercise Programme. Participants have a chair for support. Ideal for beginners. $3-4 per session. Classes in Whagnanui, Rangitīkei and Waimarino. Contact Janet at Age Concern Whanganui on 06 345 1799 or email at saygo@acwhanganui.org.nz  

Blind, Low Vision Whanganui

Walking Group – Monday 10.30am. Leaves from the Blind, Low Vision Building in Peat Street. Transport and extra support are available for those who need it. Tea and coffee afterwards. Please contact Sarah Small on 022 015 7515 or SSmall@blindlowvision.org.nz 

Indoor Bowls – Sunday 1.00pm. Transport is available. Phone Russell Lowry on 027 502 2247 or Sarah Fallen on 021 122 2551 for more information. 

Tandem Bike – This is available for hire for a small charge. Contact Sarah Small on 022 015 7515 for more details. 

Blind Sport Kit – The Blind Sport NZ Kit includes a range of accessible sports equipment, a comprehensive instruction manual and a teacher’s resource. The kit is available to borrow free of charge. See more details here on the Blind Sport NZ website – a booking form is at the bottom of the page. Ensure you choose the Whanganui kit, which is housed at Blind Low Vision Whanganui in Peat St, adjacent to the netball courts. 

Dance 4 Us Drop In (15+ years old)

Dance 4 Us Whanganui: Wednesday. 1:00 – 2:00pm, Harrison St Church at 98 Harrison Street, Whanganui. 
Cost: Gold Coin Koha. Check out the Dance Therapy NZ website for more information.

Sailability Whanganui 

We offer sailing opportunities to disabled people of all ages and operate at Pauri Lake just south of Whanganui. We are closely aligned to Wanganui Sailing Club. Volunteers are always welcome. Contact bob.davies@xtra.co.nz 021 803 744 or 06 345 7155. 

Sense Rugby

An occupational therapy led rugby programme designed to help disabled tamariki and rangatahi. Mondays during term time 3.30 – 4.30pm (ages 5-8 years) and 4.30 – 5.30pm (ages 8+ years). Contact zoe@senserugby.co.nz for more details.

Whanganui Unique Children’s Support Group

Gym sessions for families who have children with special needs. This is a safe and fun environment where kids can meet new friends and burn off some excess energy. Siblings welcome as well. Children must be supervised by an adult. No prior booking required. Gold coin donation. 4.00pm to 5.30pm on specified Saturdays at the Whanganui Boys and Girls Gym club. Contact Sue Kenny on 06 343 7583 or 027 3480 106 or Peter Smith 06 343 8263. 

Wheelchair Basketball

Wheelchair basketball is played using a sports wheelchair (provided), with rules similar to standard basketball.  Our sessions are at a community level, and we welcome people with or without disabilities to join in. Run by Sport Whanganui. Usually on Thursday evening at 5.30pm. Contact Sarah Craig at sarahc@sportwhanganui.co.nz or 027 282 6717.

Counter Punch for Parkinson’s

This class has been developed by Lisa Gombinksky Roach and Shane Cameron to get people with Parkinsons involved in boxing classes. It has a strong focus on improving balance, leg strength, general fitness, and all-round confidence. It is a fun and energetic class. Partners and friends of those with Parkinson’s are also encouraged to attend and join in the class. 

• Where: 100 Devon Road, Whanganui (Kaierau Rugby Club)
• When: Wednesday 10-11amm Friday 11am-12pm
• Cost: Fee of charge
• Contact/Leader: Sala Temo at stemo@wrhn.org.nz or 029 662 2626.
• Visit the Counter Punch website