Media Release
Halberg Trust win bid to host ISAPA 2011 in Christchurch
30 October 2008: The International Federation of Adapted Physical Activity (IFAPA) has handed New Zealand the honour of
hosting the International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity in 2011. The Halberg Trust was confirmed as hosts by
the IFAPA Executive Committee.
Established back in 1963 by former Olympic 5000m gold medallist Sir Murray Halberg, the Halberg Trust has grown to
become one of New Zealand’s most respected not-for-profit organisations, with the twin aims of honouring sporting
excellence and linking people with a disability to sport and active leisure in an inclusive environment.
The Halberg Trust Sport Opportunity Programme has been working at both grass roots and more recently at the national
sporting organisation level with the support of policies and strategies. New Zealand is one of the first countries in
the world to have a national strategy with disabled people as a focus. The New Zealand Disability Strategy presents a
long term plan for changing New Zealand from a disabling into an inclusive society. The vision of the strategy is where
disabled people can say they live in “a society that highly values our lives and continually enhances our full
participation.”
The Halberg Trust is committed to the work of having a society where all New Zealanders are given an equal opportunity
to be involved in sport and recreation. The Sport Opportunity Programme was started in June 2000 to enable people with a
disability to participate with their peers in an inclusive environment as they develop within a sporting or recreational
pathway. The programme has evolved over the past eight years and we see a future emphasis on adaptive physical activity
both in physical equipment and modifications to activities. The development of adaptive physical activities is a natural
progression for the Trust to move into.
"This is our chance to showcase the work of the Halberg Trust and the disability sector to New Zealanders and the rest
of the world," said the CEO of the Halberg Trust, Graeme Taylor, who headed New Zealand's bid.
Graeme Taylor says “It is an honour that the international disability community – at the most senior levels – has
recognised New Zealand’s efforts over the past few decades, for improving the ability of disabled New Zealanders to lead
ordinary lives and by awarding the Trust as hosts for ISAPA in 2011”
Graeme Taylor praised the high calibre of work done by Conventions and Incentives New Zealand Office (CINZ) which helped
the Halberg Trust put the bid together for the event through their Conference Assistance Programme.
The Halberg Trust lodged the bid document with the IFAPA board in Turin in early October.
International Symposium for Adapted Physical Activity (ISAPA) 2011 Bid - Q
Who made the decision to bid?
This is the Halberg Trust’s bid. The Halberg Trust lodged the bid on the 7 October 2008.
The Trust established that there were compelling reasons why New Zealand should host the ISAPA 2011.
When and where will ISAPA take place?
Monday 4th July – Saturday 9th July 2011 at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch
Why Christchurch?
Christchurch is renowned internationally for its focus and support for people with disabilities. The city is committed
to including people of all abilities and providing suitable access to all recreational and community projects.
Christchurch is the easiest city in New Zealand for people in wheelchairs and for those with impaired mobility to get
around in. There are also very strong disability networks there with KiwiAble, Disabled Snow Sports, Special Olympics,
Riding for the Disabled, wheelchair tennis and Parafed Canterbury. Christchurch has also provided a great location for
the 4th World Wheelchair Rugby Championships in 2006.
What are the economic benefits to NZ of hosting the event?
The Halberg Trust estimates the tournament is expected to attract over 500 visitors to New Zealand and will generate
significant economic benefits for the country. Additional expenditure will come mainly from international visitors
purchasing accommodation, hospitality, tourism and travel, which will result in further indirect spending.
What are the reasons behind making a bid?
The Halberg Trust believes it is an opportune time to showcase our practical work in the disability sector and help New
Zealand build an academic base in adapted physical activity.
What is the level of support in terms of New Zealand hosting the Symposium?
Letters of support have been received from the Mayor of Christchurch, Prime Minister of New Zealand, Australian Sports
Commission and the University of Christchurch demonstrating the breadth of interest and support for hosting ISAPA 2011.
What will be the theme for the Symposium?
APA for an inclusive society
Adaptive Physical Activity in Indigenous Cultures and Isolated and Migrant communities: ensuring the spectrum of
opportunities in adapted physical activity are available to all communities promoting the inclusive culture and while
celebrating elite opportunities. Using adapted physical activity as a tool for ensuring diversity and inclusion.
What is IFAPA?
International Federation of Adapted Physical Activity (IFAPA) is an international organisation of individuals,
institutions and agencies who support, promote and disseminate information about adapted physical activity, disability
sport and all aspects of sport, movements and exercise for individuals of all abilities.
~ Ends ~