Wellington is among a handful of international cities taking the lead on accessibility issues, to make the city a more liveable place for citizens and visitors with disabilities.
Central Wellington is being upgraded to facilitate the mobility needs of people with disabilities. The Disability Services arm of Wellington City Council implements policy and works with community groups to ensure the city is as accessible as possible.
Accessibility Map
Wellington City Council has developed an Accessibility Map of the central city. The map provides details of Council-owned or Council-affiliated facilities and services that allow people with disabilities to move about freely and safely.
Accessibility Map (435Kb PDF)
Services in Wellington City
In Wellington, services and tools targeted at (or accommodating of) the disabled community include:
- mobility carparks
- free use of mobility scooters
- accessible toilets
- wheelchair access to beach
- accessible playgrounds
- accessible buildings (for recreational and cultural purposes)
- accessible ATMs
- cable car
- accessible buses
- accessible accommodation.
Other Areas
Across the region, all councils provide mobility parking in their areas. These parking spaces are designated and vehicles need to display mobility parking permits. Some councils also have health and disability plans which, along with other health issues, deal with disability issues in their area.
Most councils also have community development officers whose role involves helping to promote and support mobility and accessibility initiatives.
Accessible Accommodation
Most people with disabilities will find obtaining rental accommodation in Wellington easy, but wheelchair users may encounter difficulties.
Wellington’s hilly suburbs and winding streets mean that many houses are not immediately accessible to a wheelchair user. Wellington City Council’s Disability Services is working to ensure that some rental accommodation is available for wheelchair users.
CCS New Zealand
CCS is New Zealand’s leading provider of support and services to people with physical disabilities. It is also a leading advocate for the rights of disabled people.
