Kāpiti Disability Advisory Group
The Kāpiti Disability Advisory Group (formerly the Kāpiti Disability Reference Group) is a volunteer group that meets once a month to provide advice to Council on the needs, thoughts and ideas of people with disabilities in Kāpiti.
- provide advice, input and feedback on Council policies, initiatives, projects and events
- identify emerging trends, opportunities and challenges within the disability community
- progress actions in partnership with Council which support the needs of their communities
- advocate for inclusion for all people with disabilities
- provide an inclusive and diverse representation of our communities with disabilities.
Some of the recent work by the group includes giving advice on:
- the design of town centre refurbishments
- the provision of mobility car parks
- footpath treatment to assist visually impaired citizens
- the location of accessible bus stops.
- awareness videos (you can watch these at the bottom of this page)
- supporting the Disability expo.
Our work programme
January 2026 – December 2027
The work programme sets out the Disability Advisory Group’s priorities for the next two years and how they will work with Council and the community to improve accessibility and inclusion.
What are Work Programme Priorities?
Work programme priorities are the key areas the Disability Advisory Group will focus on over the next two years. They guide how the group works with Council and community partners, where it directs its advice and advocacy, and which topics it will regularly revisit and monitor.
Our priorities reflect what matters most to disabled people: having a say in local policy, accessing clear and inclusive information, feeling safe and welcome, and confidently using public spaces and facilities.
Work Programme Priorities for 2026 – 2027
Over the next two years, the Disability Advisory Group has four priorities.
- Priority one: collaborating with Council to shape the Accessibility Approach
- Priority two: empowering Communities with Accessible Information
- Priority three: fostering a secure and welcoming community
- Priority four: improving and developing council facilities and outdoor spaces to be more accessible.
Why this is a priority for the Disability Advisory Group
The accessibility approach directly affects the wellbeing and quality of participation of disabled people living in the district.
Outcomes we are seeking
The Accessibility Approach is co-designed with us and reflects the voices, needs and desires of the disabled community.
Actions we will take
- Work with our community to give them a voice to contribute to the development of an Accessibility Approach
- Work alongside Council to progress the design of the Accessibility Approach.
Why this is a priority for the Disability Advisory Group
Council plays a key role providing good information to all people in the community.
Outcomes we are seeking
Improved accessible information specific for different communication needs in our communities.
Actions we will take
- Advocate for improved options to access information, ways information is shared and including spaces/locations where information is available.
- Advise Council on accessibility guidelines so that key information/changes and opportunities are easy to access and understand.
Why this is a priority for the Disability Advisory Group
Living in a well-designed, friendly and secure district is a way of reducing the risk of social isolation, reducing risk of accidents and contributes to disabled people feeling connected and able to participate confidently in daily life. This includes working to support Council facilities and spaces to be accessible.
Outcomes we are seeking
Disabled people feel safe and can participate easily in the community.
Actions we will take
- Explore places and spaces across Kāpiti to highlight accessibility and safety for disabled people.
- Work with the council with clear recommendations around improvements.
Why this is a priority for the Disability Advisory Group
Council facilities and outdoor spaces such as libraries, parks, beaches, and transport hubs play a major role in daily life. When these spaces are accessible, they enable disabled people to move around independently, participate in community activities, and enjoy recreational opportunities. Improving accessibility in facilities and public spaces ensures our district is designed with everyone in mind.
Outcomes we are seeking
Council facilities and outdoor spaces across the district are designed, upgraded, and maintained in ways that improve accessibility for disabled people.
Actions we will take
Work with Council staff to identify priority accessibility improvements across facilities and outdoor spaces, and highlight challenges experienced by disabled people.
Disability awareness videos
The Kāpiti Disability Advisory Group released two videos about the importance of being conscious of people's accessibility needs in everyday life, such as finding places that everyone can enjoy together, keeping our pathways and walkways clear and yes... not parking in the accessible parks! Some of our DAG members even make cameos in the videos!