ADAPTED SPORTS ATHLETES
​​​​​​​Hākinakina Whaikaha

At the Zespri AIMS Games, we are proud to champion diversity and inclusion by providing meaningful opportunities for students with disabilities to participate and thrive in sport. Our goal is to ensure that all athletes - regardless of ability - can experience the excitement, camaraderie, and personal achievement that the Games offer.

We welcome students with physical, sensory, or intellectual disabilities whose impairments may limit their ability to compete equitably alongside non-disabled peers in open events. The focus of these inclusive opportunities is on participation, personal bests, and enjoyment.

Inclusive Sporting Opportunities

  • Swimming and Cross Country (adapted to an 800m athletics event) are open to athletes with disabilities and do not require formal classification or qualifying standards. However, the athlete’s disability must significantly impact their ability to compete in the standard open event.
  • Table Tennis and Indoor Bowls offer dedicated Athletes with Disabilities divisions, providing a supportive and inclusive competition environment.
  • In all other sporting codes, students with disabilities are welcome to compete in the open class, alongside their peers.

Supporting Your Students

If your school has students with disabilities who are interested in participating in the 2026 Zespri AIMS Games, we encourage you to contact us. Our team is here to support you and will work closely with your school to ensure your students’ needs are considered throughout the planning process.

For furtHEr iNformaTiOn coNtact:

Jo Jackson

Play & Youth Lead, Parafed Bay of Plenty

Zespri AIMS Games Adapted Sports Athlete Coordinator


Accessible Experiences in Tauranga

While in Tauranga, we encourage schools to explore the region’s accessible tourism options. 

Book a free, accessible experience in Tauranga such as a trip up Mauao on the trail rider or a beach wheelchair through Tauranga City Council's website.​​​​​​​

Accessible tourism information to help you make the most of the Bay is available at the Accessible Tourism Hub.