How to improve access to buildings

The Building Act says that disabled people must be able to 'carry out normal activities and processes' in a building that is available to the public.

There are a number of ways to ensure this happens, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has more information.

Go to the MBIE website  to find out more about Building Code requirements for building access for disabled people.

For specific advice on making buildings and public places accessible for disabled people, download the New Zealand Standard NZS 4121: 2001 – Design for access and mobility – buildings and associated facilities. 

Barrier Free Trust

The Barrier Free Trust New Zealand encourages, promotes and facilitates the creation of built environments that are accessible and usable by everyone in the community including disabled people. This is based on the concept of universal design. 

The Barrier Free New Zealand Trust provides an informative accessibility helpline on access requirements on 027 225 5334 or technical@barrierfreenz.org.nz.

Go to the Barrier Free Trust website to find out more.

Marae accessibility toolkit - Te Whakaaheitanga Marae Kua Watea te Huarahi

The Marae accessibility toolkit is designed to enable kaumātua and whānau with health and disability impairments to actively engage at marae and remain effective contributors to their marae.

It provides checklist areas of what facilities are required under the Building Act when building renovations or new buildings are planned.

Go to the Community Matters website to download the Marae accessibility toolkit.