Members

Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) is the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) for New Zealand. We work across the Para sport sector with many different member organisations, each with varying responsibilities in Para sport. PNZ is a Incorporated Society, which allows voting members of the Incorporated Society under its Constitution.

Find out more about PNZ membership, how it works and what benefits members receive:

In our role as the National Paralympic Committee and member of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) exists to develop, promote and protect the Paralympic Movement in New Zealand. PNZ is the sole governing body of Para sport in New Zealand.

As part of our IPC membership requirements, PNZ must:

• Adhere to relevant International Paralympic Committee rules and codes (such as the IPC Athlete Classification Code, IPC Anti-Doping Code, IPC Code of Ethics and IPC Medical Code), which also impacts our members. Full rights and obligations of IPC Members are outlined in Chapter 2 of the IPC Handbook. Refer paralympic.org/ipc-handbook.

• Ensure that the national Para sport classification system is compliant with the IPC Athlete Classification Code. As such, we play a key role in the leading the strategic direction of classification in New Zealand and supporting National Sports Organisations (NSOs) to develop and implement code compliant policies and procedures.
  Refer New Zealand Para Athlete Classification Code and Standards (PDF, 521KB); and IPC Athlete Classification Code and International Standards (PDF, 365KB).

• Have an Athletes Council which support the health and well-being of NZ Para athletes and provides a voice for all Para athletes within NZ through the PNZ Athletes’ Council.
  Refer PNZ Athletes’ Council.

The members of PNZ as outlined in the PNZ Constitution are:

• National Sports Organisations (NSOs) (includes National Disability Sport Organisations)
• Parafeds
• Associate Members
• PNZ Order of Merit Members
• Any other category or categories of membership of PNZ as determined by the Board from time to time

Voting membership, with associated rights and obligations under the PNZ Constitution, is specifically for NSOs and Parafeds. Associate Members are entitled to attend General Meetings but are not entitled to vote and may speak at the discretion of the Chair. Order of Merit Members are entitled to attend General Meetings and are entitled to speak but are not entitled to vote at any such meetings.