CELEBRATING INCLUSION
The Primary School All Abilities Sports Day, delivered by Halberg with the support of Beach Haven Primary School, Special Olympics NZ, and Birkenhead College, brought a vibrant mix of fun and sports to Auckland. Designed for primary-aged children with disabilities or impairments, this event offered an inclusive platform to explore new activities and make meaningful connections.
This year, the event welcomed 50 young participants from 16 Auckland Primary Schools, with 8 sports organisations delivering a variety of exciting, adaptive activities. The line-up featured sessions from Girls Skate, the Adaptive Yogi, Sense Rugby, No Limits Netball, Northern Regional Adaptive Football, Future All Abilities Golf, Footsteps, and Table Tennis NZ.
“It was a great day. Lot’s of different sports, friendly people running the activities, and plenty of opportunities to try new things and excel. Lot’s of fun!”
Held at Birkenhead College, the event kicked off with Halberg Youth Council member Jaden Movold as MC and an inspiring key note speech from Special Olympics Athlete Chrissa Pearce who shared their personal journey in sports and it’s transformative role in their life. The day unfolded with an array of activities tailored to the diverse interests of participants;
- Sense Rugby got students testing their rugby skills, including a fun challenge with the tackle wheel, giving them a taste of Sense Rugby’s holiday programmes.
- The Adaptive Yogi created a serene space for athletes to connect with their bodies through calming yoga practices.
- Girls Skate inspired young adventurers to try skateboarding, some tackling ramps for the very first time.
- No Limits Netball delivered exciting shooting games to help players aim for success.
Local organisations such as Auckland Cricket, Bays Athletics, Blind Low Vision, and Blind Sport added to the festive atmosphere with stalls, giveaways, and games to showcase activities and resources available to participants and their families. As the day heated up, participants took part in afternoon sessions;
- Future All Abilities Golf challenged young golfers with targeted-based activities.
- Northern Regional Adaptive Football brought energy to the field, scouting for future footballing stars.
- Indoors, Footsteps introduced athletes to fitness fun through electronic games, while Table Tennis NZ helped refine their coordination at interactive stations.
The Primary School All Abilities Sports Day was more than just an event; it was a celebration of inclusion, laughter, and possibility. Families left with new memories, connections, and ideas for how to stay active together. This special day underscored the power of sport to unite, inspire, and create lasting joy for all involved.
“Just an awesome opportunity for kids of all abilities to be included in a sports day – a quintessential Kiwi Kids’ experience.”
