News and media

IHC is the voice for intellectual disability in New Zealand. We regularly comment in the media on a range of topics to advocate and stand up for the rights of disabled people. We also share people’s stories through several publications, including our flagship magazine, Strong Voices.

We have a great resource for journalists with some tips on writing about disability and disabled people, including appropriate language to use.

If you have a media enquiry or want to tell your story, please email ihccomms@ihc.org.nz or call 027 807 7740.

Proposed benefit changes will batter New Zealand families living with intellectual disability
Media release
February 19, 2024
IHC Director of Advocacy, Tania Thomas, says the Government is making decisions about benefits on the fly and not on evidence, which is putting intellectually disabled New Zealanders at serious risk.
Opportunity for new Government to lift achievement rates for intellectually disabled students
Media release
January 24, 2024
IHC New Zealand says although NCEA achievement rates for students with intellectual disability are rising, overwhelmingly there is a massive struggle for these students to access quality education at their local school.
Despite stark warnings, intellectually disabled Kiwis neglected by Government for another 20 years
Media release
December 18, 2023
New Zealanders have long life expectancies, but new research from IHC shows that intellectually disabled New Zealanders die up to 20 years earlier than the rest of the population.
Whaikaha releases complaints review
November 24, 2023
On 27 October, the day of the IHC Annual General Meeting, Whaikaha released the findings of its review of complaints policies at IDEA Services.
Open Letter from Shelley Payne MNZM, IHC New Zealand Life Member and former Board Member
November 14, 2023
Response to Whaikaha’s complainants’ review
A public education system that works for all learners?
September 28, 2023
In this last month before the election, all political party education spokespeople will no doubt be turning their minds to “what I will do first?” when and if elected.
Notice of 2023 IHC New Zealand AGM
September 19, 2023
Notice is hereby given of the 2023 IHC New Zealand Incorporated Annual General Meeting at 4pm, Friday 27 October 2023
Make it fair for ALL!
Media release
September 15, 2023
Get on with it and make education fair for ALL
2023 IDEA Services regional kapa haka festivals
Media release
August 23, 2023
IDEA Services is excited to be hosting four upcoming regional kapa haka festivals.
Manaia is the IHC Art Awards People's Choice 
Media release
August 17, 2023
Paraparaumu artist Manaia Matakatea (Muaūpoko,Ngāti Raukawa - Ngāti Huia) has won the 2023 IHC Art Awards L’affare People’s Choice Award.