Affinity Gymnastics

ffinity Gymnastics Academy proudly promotes diversity and inclusion at our gymnasium in Rolleston, and across Selwyn and the wider South Island. With a fully inclusive programme offering, this enables children to have access to gymnastics who may not be able to access classes in a social setting. These fully specialised and tailored sessions are offered to numerous schools in Selwyn and surrounding areas that specifically cater to disability groups and individuals. Our collaboration with local schools for gymnastics classes has created an inclusive pathway for participants with physical and mental impairments who can participate in a supportive environment. Our fully inclusive programme is hugely beneficial to the students mental and physical wellbeing. We support students through movement to test their physical abilities and confidence using a range of activities and exciting gym equipment. They are empowered as they learn and grow whilst being involved in physical activity. Several children with physical and mental disabilities from the Canterbury region attend weekly one on one sessions at Affinity Gymnastics Academy.

Best Life Project

Best Life Project was created by a group of parents. When their children had turned 21 and were transitioning out of school, it became apparent that there were no suitable programmes for them to attend in the Waikirikiri Selwyn District. So, together they created a Charitable Trust where their young people could thrive and live their best lives, in an environment that is happy, safe and calm with people who value them, and see their strengths. Best Life provides a place where the uniqueness of young adults is celebrated and embraced. We encourage independence and self-worth.

Waihora Kī o Rahi

Our group’s kaupapa is centred on inclusivity, manaakitanga, and creating accessible spaces where everyone, regardless of background, ability, or circumstance, can participate in not only sport but a whānau focused around te ao Māori. Through kī o rahi, we provide a culturally rich and supportive environment that celebrates diversity and fosters belonging. We actively work to break down barriers that prevent participation. This includes offering free events, providing uniforms and kai, and travelling across the district to reach smaller or more isolated communities. Our approach ensures that tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau who may experience financial hardship, social exclusion, or cultural disconnection still have access to meaningful and empowering activities. We collaborate with schools, tangata whenua, and community organisations to ensure our programmes are inclusive and responsive to local needs. We are a super diverse group with an age range from 11 to 60 years old, just under 40% of our players whakapapa Māori, and we also have members of the deaf community making our kaupapa accessible in te reo Māori, English, and NZ Sign Language.

Coach Tane Fitness

At Coach Tāne Fitness, fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment is at the heart of everything we do. As a locally owned gym in Rolleston, we are committed to creating a space where people from all walks of life—regardless of background, ability, age, culture, or confidence level—feel respected, supported, and empowered. Our flexible, coach-led circuit model breaks down barriers for those who traditionally feel excluded from fitness spaces. We serve shift workers, busy parents, newcomers to exercise, and those navigating health or personal challenges by offering a judgement-free space, adaptable programming, and a strong sense of belonging. Our focus on mobility, mindset, and habit coaching ensures that our support goes far beyond physical training. Our community reflects the rich diversity of Selwyn—bringing together Māori, Pasifika, Pākehā, South African, Asian, and many other cultures in a space where everyone is treated like whānau. We’ve seen the power of this firsthand through initiatives like “March for Marcia,” a fundraiser for a member undergoing cancer treatment, where our community rallied in unity and support.

IndianNZ Association of Christchurch Inc.

The IndianNZ Association of Christchurch Inc. is dedicated to creating inclusive, accessible cultural experiences that foster connection, understanding, and belonging. The festival Selwyn Holi – Festival of Colours is a shining example of this commitment. Entirely free and held in an open, family-friendly environment, the event welcomes individuals and families from all walks of life, especially those facing additional barriers such as migrants, ethnic minorities, seniors, low-income, and remote communities. We actively collaborate with ethnic groups, local schools, and support services to ensure diverse participation and reduce social isolation. Cultural performances provide a platform for many communities, not just the Indian diaspora to share and celebrate their heritage. The event becomes a true expression of unity in diversity. In partnership with the Ministry of Education, we also organised a Learning Community Hub to empower migrant parents through educational workshops, helping them better engage with their children’s learning and the New Zealand education system.

Women’s Helping Hand Trust

At The Women’s Helping Hand Trust NZ, we are committed to improving the quality of life for women and children particularly from ethnic backgrounds across the Waikirikiri Selwyn District. Our free wellbeing and development programs are designed to remove barriers to participation by providing culturally safe, accessible, and supportive spaces where individuals feel empowered, respected, and valued. We run free weekly Bhangra classes every Thursday at the Rolleston Community Centre, supporting physical health, mental wellbeing, and cultural identity for women and children for the past three years. Many of our participants face challenges such as language barriers, cultural isolation, financial hardship, and limited access to community networks. To further support these communities, we also offer free classes in crochet, sewing, stitching, saree draping, and women’s health, as well as “Chai and Chat” gatherings for senior citizens helping reduce isolation and strengthen intergenerational connection. These initiatives empower women with life skills, leadership opportunities, and a sense of belonging. Our signature annual event, Selwyn Teeyan, attracts over 400 women from diverse backgrounds, celebrating sisterhood, culture, and community spirit in a safe, women-only environment.

Clean Globe Limited

Clean Globe Limited is an Accredited Employer. We adapt our hiring and operations to include people who face barriers such as language challenges or limited work experience. We focus our recruitment on character and willingness to learn, offering training and support. Our team comes from diverse backgrounds, and we prioritise making everyone feel valued, safe, and supported. We would be honoured to receive this award, as it would recognise our ongoing commitment to inclusion and encourage other small businesses to do the same. We believe that creating opportunities for everyone not only strengthens our team but also contributes to a more inclusive, resilient, and connected community.

Glenlothian Farm

We don’t just talk about inclusion at Glenlothian — we live it. We’re a small rare breeds farm tucked into the heart of rural Selwyn, and over the years, it’s quietly become a space where those who don’t always get a fair go feel like they belong. For the past five years, we’ve welcomed young people from Pitau-Allenvale and other schools every week — some with autism, some with learning differences, some just needing a calm, steady place to be. It’s not about big programmes. It’s about feeding the goats. Walking the lambs. Sweeping a path and knowing it matters. One young man who arrived barely speaking now leads the feed rounds with quiet confidence. Another found his first real friend here — and their connection continues years on. These moments aren’t the exception. They’re the fabric of daily life here. We take a trauma-informed approach — adapting how we communicate, offering sensory breaks, simplifying tasks, and working alongside each person until they feel safe. Our visitors come from many countries and cultures, and we work to ensure equity and access for everyone — whether English is their first language or not, and whether they’ve grown up on farms or are meeting a lamb for the first time.

NZ Look Shuttles

At NZ Look Shuttles, inclusivity isn’t just a value—it’s embedded in our daily operations. As proud members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, we’ve taken deliberate steps to adapt our business practices to better support those who face additional barriers, particularly those with non-visible disabilities. Our drivers are trained to recognise the sunflower symbol and respond with empathy, patience, and practical support—ensuring every passenger feels safe, seen, and respected. Since our beginnings in Lincoln and Rolleston in 2017, we’ve grown into a trusted, locally owned shuttle service with a fleet of 10 vehicles servicing Christchurch and the wider Selwyn region. We customise each journey to meet our passengers' unique needs—whether that means extra time, a calming approach, or thoughtful adjustments. We also go beyond transport. Our team actively connects people with local experiences and community resources. As part of a wider group—NZ Look Shuttles, Christchurch Combined Shuttles, and BigSkyWonder—we’re committed to building a more accessible future, whether it’s through smooth transfers or inclusive stargazing adventures. 

My Home Chef

At My Home Chef, we specialise in providing inclusive cooking lessons tailored for people with special needs and disabilities. Our mission is to make the joy of cooking accessible to everyone, regardless of ability, and we have developed our processes and services to fit this purpose. We’ve adapted every part of our business to remove barriers and foster confidence in the kitchen. Our custom-built kitchen - opened at the start of 2025, features wheelchair-accessible benches, appliances and workspaces; it also integrates specialised low-noise appliances, and thoughtfully designed spaces to support a range of physical and sensory needs. Lessons are one-on-one with qualified chefs experienced in working with neurodiverse clients and those with mobility or cognitive challenges. Each recipe is tailored to the individual, factoring in their ability level, allergies, sensory preferences, and personal likes and dislikes. Inclusion for us isn’t an add-on; it’s the foundation of everything we do. We empower our clients to gain life skills, independence, and a sense of pride through food

Submerge Aquatics

Our organisation has diversity and inclusion embedded into every part of what we do, with a strong commitment to breaking down barriers for Para-athletes, girls and women in sport, and inclusion of people from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. We’ve modified training plans for athletes with disabilities, have gender-equitable leadership pathways, and culturally responsive community outreach through workshops and active social media. We actively recruit and train coaches to work inclusively, ensuring that representation is reflected in both our staff and athlete groups. Our programs intentionally cater to young women and girls with pathways from grassroots to elite level competition. We believe inclusion is not an optional add-on—it is core to achieving sporting excellence and community wellbeing. We’d like to be considered for this award to showcase how a small, local organisation can lead with intent, innovation, and purpose in making sport something where everyone has a place and is encouraged to grow to be the best version of themselves.

Busy Bumbles

Busy Bumbles is proud to promote – and celebrate! – diversity and inclusion, and is committed to creating inclusive, nurturing environments where all tamariki thrive — regardless of ability, background or additional needs. We’ve adapted our business practices to ensure that inclusion is embedded in every aspect of our before and after school care and holiday programmes across the South Island. Previously, our Waitaha venue piloted specialist strategies to support neurodiverse children and those requiring additional support. Though this dedicated venue has now closed (Waitaha School continues to run the programme set up by Busy Bumbles independently), we’ve successfully embedded its most effective practices into all Busy Bumbles programmes. These include enhanced staff training, tailored support strategies, flexible routines, and communication approaches that meet individual needs. We’ve also adapted our recruitment practices to ensure neurodivergent team members feel welcomed and supported, fostering a workplace that mirrors the inclusive environment we offer children.

eBikezNZ MOBILITY SOLUTIONS

eBikezNZ Mobility Solutions has made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion by tailoring its business practices to meet the needs of individuals facing physical and age-related mobility challenges. Founded in response to a personal journey with Multiple Sclerosis, our company specializes in providing personalized mobility solutions, including a diverse range of 2, 3, and 4-wheel scooters, mobility scooters, and PAS e-bikes and e-trikes. Our commitment to customization ensures that each mobility solution is adapted to the unique requirements of their clients, enhancing independence and quality of life . eBikezNZ's inclusive approach is evident in their efforts to make mobility accessible to all, regardless of physical limitations. By offering a variety of models and the ability to personalize each scooter, we address the diverse needs of our clientele, including those who may not find suitable options elsewhere. Our services extend beyond product offerings, as we provide in-home demonstrations and nationwide shipping, ensuring that individuals across New Zealand can benefit from our solutions.

Out West Natural Horsemanship

OWNH was created to fill what we felt was a void in the local equine industry to provide natural horsemanship opportunities for young people who face additional barriers and challenges in their lives due to neurodiversity and anxiety related issues. We felt there was a real need for a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for neurodiverse learners and those challenged with anxiety to thrive in equine activities by forming a bond with their equine partner through co-regulation and connection. There are numerous studies and research which proves the outstanding ability of horses to heal the hearts and minds of humans. We provide a very niche environment of one on one lessons which are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual which creates a safe and supportive environment where healing and transformation naturally takes place. All our services have been thoroughly and carefully put together to meet the unique needs of young people facing additional challenges and barriers in their lives.

Tuamanko Alternative Education

I am making this application as the managing school for Alternative Education in Selwyn. The nomination is for Tuamanko Alternative Education based in the Youth Hub. Tumanako is an alternative education provider that Rolleston Colege, Lincoln High School, Ellesmere College and Darfield High School all access. it provides an alternative option for rangatahi who struggle in the mainstream school environment. Rangatahi engaged with Tuamanko are referred by the secondary schools, it is a 10 week program, sometimes longer for them to re-engage with education through Literacy, Numeracy and EOTC education outside the classroom. These rangatahi are faced with challenges in the mainstream education setting, are referred because of attendance, behavior, or just to support re-engagement in education.