Special Olympics Te Whanganui-a-Tara
While sport is the basis of the organisation, the benefits of participating in Special Olympics are much greater than physical fitness. SONZ changes lives. Through participating in sport, athletes with intellectual disabilities make friends, gain confidence and get to be part of a team. As athletes develop physically and emotionally, they learn that they can achieve not only on the sports field, but in their wider community.
Our Mission:
Special Olympics New Zealand (SONZ) offers a year-round programme of sports training and competition for children and adults with an intellectual disability. More than 5,000 athletes throughout New Zealand participate in the 13 different Olympic-type summer and winter sports offered by Special Olympics New Zealand. Athletes are supported by over 1,500 volunteers and partners.
Volunteer with us
Swimming Coach
Coach the Special Olympics Swimming programme at Wellington Regional Aquatic Centre, supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities. Weekly on Sunday afternoons.
Coach the Special Olympics Basketball team in the Hutt Valley, supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities. Weekly during term time.
Coach the Special Olympics Bocce team in the Hutt Valley, helping athletes develop skills and compete. Weekly during term time, no experience needed.