NZCT Grants $41,646 to Empower Parafed Gisborne Tairawhiti Community.

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded Parafed Gisborne Tairawhiti (PGT) a $41,646 grant to pay salaries and support their participation in the 2025 Halberg Disability Games. This event, which is a highlight of their calendar, expands opportunities for disabled individuals and attracts more participants each year.

Regional Development Coordinator Louise says “Parafed delivers opportunities that our disabled community in Gisborne would otherwise miss. We create wider awareness that any sport or recreational activity can be adapted for inclusive play.” During the Halberg Games athletes are encouraged to step outside their comfort zone so they can leave the event with a sense of achievement and be empowered to attempt new activities. Taking part in the Halberg Games is an experience every person living with a physical disability should have and Parafed aims to include as much of the Tairawhiti community as possible.

PGT has won the Halberg Spirit of the Games award twice, reflecting the community atmosphere, whanaungatanga, and manaakitanga fostered among its members. The funding from NZCT is crucial for maintaining the PGT whanau’s inclusive sport opportunities.

Jack Adams, a national record holder in shot put, says, “Having the opportunity to try para-athletics allowed me to learn a new sport and continue down the para-athletics pathway.” Jack has since joined the local athletics club committee to support other para-athletes. Fellow athlete Lezae Te Reo discovered her passion for athletics at her first Halberg Games and says, “I loved going to Halberg Games because I got to compete against people like me.” Her parents have noted her new-found confidence.

NZCT’s GM of Grants, Marketing and Communications, Ben Hodges, adds, “Sport offers so many benefits to participants and people with disabilities must not miss out. We’re delighted the funds we raise through responsible gaming fundraising partnerships with Bar 59 and Bollywood Stars make such a positive contribution to the community.”