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.
Applications are open from 1 April - 27 April – See criteria and timeline below.
Apply now by completing this form or pick up a paper copy from our service centres.
Applications now open for new members
We’re looking for people with lived experience with a disability themselves and who are passionate about building a more inclusive and accessible Kāpiti. If that sounds like you, we’d love you to apply.
Who can apply?
The group includes up to 12 community members who have lived experience of disability. There’s also room for up to two members who are carers or parents of someone with a disability. One elected member and a Council Advisor also attend the meetings.
If you use a support person, they're welcome to attend with you, although they won’t take part in discussions or decision-making.
What’s involved?
The group meets once a month. Members prepare for meetings ahead of time and contribute advice and insights from their own experiences and the communities they’re part of.
Each term lasts two years, with the option to apply again you'd like to continue. You’re also free to step down at any time — just let the Chair or Council Advisor know in writing.
We'll support you to participate
We know everyone’s needs are different, and we’ll work with you to make sure you can take part in a way that works for you. Whether it’s help with transport, getting documents in a certain format, or another kind of assistance — just let us know what you need.
Join us at one of our drop-in sessions
Want to know more or need help with the application? Come and chat to us at one of our drop-in sessions:
- 10am–2pm, Wednesday 9 April, Ōtaki Library
- 10am–2pm, Thursday 10 April, Paraparaumu Library
- 10am–2pm, Wednesday 16 April, Waikanae Library
- 10am–12pm, Thursday 17 April, Beach Road Deli Paekākāriki
How to apply
Please apply by completing this form. You can also pick up paper copies at our service centres. Please contact our Connected Communities team if you need to apply in a different way.
Please note that shortlisted nominees will be required to attend an interview before the final selection is made by Council.
We will be in contact once applications close on 27 April 2025 to let you know of interview times.
Timeline:
1 – 27 April: Applications open
2–6 May: Interviews
26–31 May: Induction
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!