A three-year funding boost from TECT Community Trust is set to expand inclusive sport and recreation opportunities across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

TECT has confirmed its long-term support for Parafed Bay of Plenty, providing funding aimed at strengthening participation, wellbeing and community connection for people with physical disabilities.

The agreement gives Parafed Bay of Plenty greater certainty to grow its programmes and broaden access to inclusive sport, while also helping drive wider change across the region by promoting accessibility in mainstream activities.

Parafed Bay of Plenty delivers opportunities ranging from grassroots participation to high-performance pathways, while also working with clubs, schools and community organisations to build capability in inclusive sport.

Play and Youth lead Jo Jackson said the multi-year funding has been transformative for the organisation.

“Receiving three years of funding from TECT has provided Parafed Bay of Plenty with much needed stability and certainty,” Jackson said.

“It has allowed us to move beyond short-term planning and instead take a more strategic, long-term approach to how we deliver and grow our programmes.”

That approach has already supported significant growth, with membership increasing from 85 in 2020 to 256 in 2026.

Programme offerings have also expanded to include activities such as wheelchair rugby, basketball, boccia, swimming, surfing, paddleboarding and sailing, delivered through local partnerships.

Water activities at the Mount. Photo / Supplied

However, demand for inclusive sport continues to rise, particularly for ocean-based activities, with some programmes reaching capacity as more schools, families and young people seek opportunities to participate.

A major event on the calendar is the Healthvision Festival of Disability Sport, to be held on May 23 and 24 at Mercury Baypark Arena in Tauranga.

The festival is one of the largest disability sport events in New Zealand and plays a key role in connecting participants and raising awareness.

“Events like the festival go far beyond competition,” Jackson said.

“They help people connect, reduce isolation, and showcase what is possible when environments are inclusive and accessible.”

TECT deputy chairwoman Kate Barry-Piceno said the partnership reflects the trust’s commitment to strengthening community wellbeing.

“This three-year investment recognises the importance of inclusion and the long-term benefits it brings,” she said.

“Parafed Bay of Plenty’s work helps create a region where people of all abilities feel welcome and able to participate.”

Parafed Bay of Plenty’s impact is also seen through grassroots programmes, including Te Puke Gymsports’ Movement Unlimited initiative, which provides adaptive gymnastics and parkour sessions for children and young people with disabilities.

The programme focuses on building confidence and belonging, offering tailored support to ensure participants can take part in a way that suits their needs.

General manager Erin McKenna said inclusion is central to the organisation’s values.

“Inclusion means everyone in our community can participate in a way that works for them and feel they belong,” she said.

The programme fills an important gap for families and schools by providing accessible opportunities for young people who might otherwise miss out on sport.

Together, regional organisations and community programmes are helping embed inclusive practices across the Bay of Plenty, supporting a more connected and accessible community.

TECT said continued investment in initiatives like these is helping build a Western Bay of Plenty where participation is open to all and the benefits of sport and recreation can be shared by everyone.