Rodney Support &
Inclusion Expo 2026
Supporting Inclusion & Accessibility
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DATE: Thursday 15th October 2026
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TIME: 10 am – 2 pm
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VENUE: Mahurangi Hope Centre (22 Mansel Drive, Warkworth)

The inaugural Rodney Support & Inclusion Expo, curated by RICI, is a Rodney-wide event bringing together organisations, services and opportunities to support residents and whānau across our region. Discover a wide range of local support, including disability services, family & whānau support, employment opportunities for support workers and nurses, inclusive recreation & sports, social enterprises, mental health support, community services, respite options, and MUCH more!
Designed to connect support groups, promote inclusion and help individuals and families find the support they need, the Expo will be welcoming and culturally inclusive, reflecting the diversity of our community. Don’t miss this opportunity to CONNECT with your community and explore the support and inclusive opportunities right here in Rodney!
In the media:
* Main Auditorium - OVER 60 organisations represented! (see list & layout below)
* Chapel Room - Series of 10-min Speaker Presentations; 10.45am - 12.15pm
* Cultural Performances - Audience Singing, NZSL Signing; Kapa Haka rōpū
* Ample mobility parking & general parking
* Accessible bathrooms
* Cafe on site
* A Quiet Room

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List of Table Numbers & Standholders
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WELCOME TABLE - collect your Expo Carry bag with a free Rodney Support Directory.
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Mahurangi Hope Community Trust - is part of Mahurangi Hope Church and delivers community programmes and support services through the Hope Centre in Warkworth. We provide practical help through our community foodbank, alongside youth and whānau initiatives, Pacific programmes, social work, and community events and celebrations that strengthen connection and wellbeing across the Mahurangi region.
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Kiribati Rodney Charitable Trust - a registered New Zealand charity that supports and builds resilience within the Kiribati community in the Rodney District.
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Electoral Commission - Registering voters and maintaining electoral rolls; register voters and add them to the electoral roll; keep the electoral rolls up to date and accurate so all registered voters can take part in parliamentary elections and elections run smoothly.
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NZSL Club Trust - a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to educating the community and raising awareness of Deaf culture in New Zealand. Based in Whangārei, they run events and courses throughout the year - including classes in Rodney - to encourage people to learn New Zealand’s official language, in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
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Queer TeaTime - a grassroots social initiative providing a relaxed, inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies to connect over tea, coffee, and casual conversation in the Warkworth area.
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Warkworth War Memorial Library - Along with library book borrowing and information services, Warkworth library also offers free WiFi, printing, photocopying, and computer use, plus a wide range of supportive community programmes and events. Council services available; SHARING with CAB Wellsford/Warkworth - Assist people to know and understand their rights and obligations and how to use this information to get the best outcomes. Provide a free and independent information service to all. Service covers from Puhoi to Brynderwyn.
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Kaikaranga - NASC (formerly Taikura) - a Needs Assessment & Service Coordination (NASC) agency in the greater Auckland region to help people under 65 access free government-funded disability support
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RICI INFORMATION TABLE - For all queries related to the Expo. Rodney Inclusive Communities Initiative operates as an information network, advocacy group & events coordinator in the Rodney District, focusing on matters related to inclusion and disability support. At the Expo, RICI will launch our free Rodney Support Directory (sponsored by The Warehouse and the Harikoa Foundation)
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RICI will also share information about the following groups that are unable to be present on the day:
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The Angelman Network (Angelman syndrome NZ)
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Warkworth Stroke Survivor Group
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Warkworth Blind Low Vision Support Group
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Chequers Trust
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Real World Living - a Disability Support Service provider of information, navigation, planning, training, and support for people who have physical and/or cognitive challenges and diverse levels of living and working abilities, using an holistic and whole of life approach and based in Auckland; SHARING with Flying Kites - an Auckland–based charitable organisation focused on reimagining disability support to better fit the needs, personalities, and aspirations of disabled people and their whānau (families).
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Disability Connect - a free information and advisory service based in Auckland, operating from Warkworth to Pukekohe - that helps disabled people, their families, and whānau navigate the New Zealand disability sector.
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Manawanui - the leading host provider of Individualised Funding (IF). Supports people with self-directed disability funding options. Easy to use Web Portal. Easy Payroll & Expenses.
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Special Olympics HBCR - a regional nonprofit sports club providing year-round training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities; SHARING with I.Lead (at Yes Disability) - a movement of youth with lived experience of disabilities advocating for a better future. Aims to amplify the voices of disabled youth and run a range of programmes around NZ, from leadership training to social groups.
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Omaha Surf Club - A free Sandcruiser beach wheelchair is available for public use at Omaha Beach, stored and managed through the Omaha Surf Life Saving Club.
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Rodney Community - a free service provided by the Rodney Local Board and managed by the Rodney Community Team to promote community events, activities and initiatives across the Rodney Local Board area.
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Recreate NZ - A New Zealand charity providing life-changing experiences for youth with disabilities through adventure, development, and social programs.
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Enliven - an Individualised Funding host. Supports older people and those living with disabilities to maximise independence and enjoy fulfilling lives. The principles of caring, enabling and supporting underpin all Enliven services. We believe it is important to recognise emotional, cultural and social needs, as well as meeting practical day-to-day care requirements; SHARING with Visionwest - A host provider of Individualised Funding (IF); also offers home healthcare services in communities across North & West Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, and Taupō.
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Solace Homecare - a crucial resource for individuals seeking to maintain their independence while receiving care in the familiarity and comfort of their own homes. Our team is available around the clock, providing 24/7 care and support to clients and their families across Auckland.
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Quality Care Connection - RESOURCE: Respite & Short-Stay Eldercare Options in Rodney. A warm group of independent, local carers working as one connected circle, bringing together our carers, your loved ones, spouses and families. Service area is Matakana Coast, Warkworth & surrounding areas.
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Independent Living - a Charitable Trust committed to finding solutions to enable you to live a great life, be that navigating the health and disability sector or finding the right equipment to keep you as independent as possible.
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Sensory Sam Ltd - sells a wide range of quality Sensory products with advice on how to get these funded if applicable.
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Rodney Neighbourhood Support - a nationwide, community-led movement that helps people and neighbourhoods connect, look out for one another, and build safer, more resilient communities. In Rodney, we work closely with NZ Police, Civil Defence, and local partners to support our rural and coastal communities, from Kumeu to Mangawhai; SHARING with Hato Hone St John - provides emergency ambulance responses, local health transport, and community health services across the Rodney area in Auckland.
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Freedom2Function Ltd - a paediatric occupational therapy service providing support for babies, children, and families in the Warkworth/Auckland region; to help children thrive in the everyday occupations that make up their world - eating, playing, learning, exploring, and connecting with others; SHARING with Independent Therapist group - local clinicians, Vicki Collier (Occupational Therapist), Amanda Klopper (Speech Therapist), Anelda Huisamen (clinical psychologist/play & art therapy)
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Money Smart - MoneySmart provides free, confidential financial mentoring and budgeting support to people in Warkworth, Wellsford, Snells Beach, Matakana and surrounding areas from Puhoi to Mangawhai. Money mentors can help with budgeting and managing money, dealing with debt, negotiating with creditors, developing affordable repayment plans, and support with Work and Income.
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Harikoa Foundation - a new parent-led initiative based in Aotearoa New Zealand - to establish a secure, meaningful future for people living with disability; building an inclusive model that brings together housing, social connection, financial surety, and coordinated disability support.
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Swift / Special Needs Planning Guidance - Valentina Pereira, Insurance Adviser (North & South Island). Life & Legacy planning for Special Needs families.
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Womens Centre Rodney - a not-for-profit community hub in Warkworth that supports, empowers, and informs women to improve their wellbeing and reduce social isolation.
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Harbour Hospice - provides free, specialist palliative care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families in the Hibiscus Coast, North Shore, and Warkworth/Wellsford communities.
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Prestige Nursing - provides premium, Clinical Nurse Specialist-led in-home nursing and care services in Auckland, particularly serving the Rodney region
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Baskets Plus Community Hub - a registered charity focused on preventing loneliness & isolation. A welcoming place to interact, connect, relax & do meaningful activities with a free cuppa. Based in Warkworth, downstairs at the RSA.
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Kowhai Youth Trust Warkworth - dedicated to providing support and resources to young people in our community. The aim is to financially assist any local young person whose needs could relate to any area of education, health, cultural or sport; SHARING with Muscular Dystrophy (Northern) - Understanding Neuromuscular Conditions. MDANZ provides clinical information, practical guidance, and advocacy for individuals, whānau, and medical professionals navigating over 70 distinct neuromuscular conditions across New Zealand.
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Age Concern Rodney (NOT ATTENDING) - offers a range of services & programmes that support older people to remain independent, connected, informed, and active in their communities. From advocacy, elder abuse prevention, and transport assistance to social activities, educational workshops, and practical support services; helping older people access the resources and opportunities they need to live well.
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People First New Zealand Inc. ‑ Ngā Tāngata Tuatahi - is run by and for the People First members who are people with learning disability. Members belong to local groups where they learn about self-advocacy and have opportunities to speak up in their local communities, regional meetings and national networking events.
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CCS Disability Action - provides high-quality, person-centred support to disabled people, their families, and communities. Offers a range of services that promote independence, inclusion, and wellbeing, including: Community-based disability support, Advocacy and navigation services, Transition support for youth and adults, Inclusive education and employment programmes. Support to complete your Mobility Parking permit application.
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Spectrum Care - a large independent charitable trust in New Zealand that provides personalised support services for children, young people, and adults with disabilities, as well as their whānau.
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Phab NZ - an inclusive organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities. Members are encouraged to choose activities within weekly social groups, giving them the opportunity to develop skills and confidence to become valued, active, and inclusive members of our communities. Designed for those aged 16 and over, members build friendships, integrate into their communities, and, most importantly, have fun.
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Neurolinks Growth Centre - We work with individuals, young people and families navigating learning, neurodivergence & change. Our team brings extensive experience across education, psychology, learning support, coaching and developmental practice, blending lived experience with evidence-informed approaches.
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Yellow Brick Road (Formerly Supporting Families NZ) - a national organisation that provides support for whānau who have a loved one experiencing mental health challenges; SHARING with Ember Employment North & IPS Services - the Rodney Community Hub provides individualized employment support and Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services across the greater Auckland and northern regions for people aged 16–65 experiencing mental distress, addiction, or intellectual disabilities.
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Te Ha Oranga - Kaua e mahue tētahi atu ki waho / Don't leave anybody out. Provides free wrap-around services to support total well-being and Whānau Hauora for all who live within the rohe of Ngāti Whātua, regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, age or ability.
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Te Ha Oranga - Kaua e mahue tētahi atu ki waho / Don't leave anybody out. Home support services team.
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Kaleidocare - provides inclusive community support through tailored disability programmes for children and adults with very high and complex needs.
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Adventurer’s Apothecary - a whimsical home fragrance store with scented 'Candles that Change the Game'. Made in rural Kaipara, each item is handcrafted with love and care (and a touch of fantasy) to bring a hint of magic into your home.
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L'arche Mount Tabor (Helensville) - where people with and without intellectual disabilities live and work together, and are equally responsible for their home and community.
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Life Homes (The Life Centre Trust Auckland) - has five residential homes in the Warkworth area and Rodney district, providing 24/7 care for adults with an intellectual disability; a Christian trust which is committed to giving residents a lifestyle that mirrors family life as closely as possible.
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AIM (Adults in Motion) - offers an individualised vocational service designed to mentor, support and empower young adults with intellectual disabilities (regardless of the level of disability) from the age of 16 years upward. They provide support and opportunities for achieving personal goals and participatory roles within the wider community.
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IDEA Services - IDEA Services is New Zealand’s largest provider of services for people with intellectual disabilities and their families. We support people with intellectual disabilities, working in partnership with them to aid their personal development.
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Parent to Parent Auckland North - supports families and whānau of people with disabilities and health impairments through free information, workshops, and local peer support networks SHARING with The Wilson Home Trust - supports and enhances the lives of children and young adults with a physical disability up to the age of 21, living in the upper north island of New Zealand. This includes providing information and support, and services such as respite, activities, and financial support by the way of grant funding.
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Warkworth Volunteer Fire Service (NOT ATTENDING) - is a volunteer station. All members dedicate their own time to serve this community. The brigade responds to a variety of emergencies in our local area, including: Fires, Medical emergencies, Motor vehicle accidents, Search & rescue, Civil defence, Natural disaster responses - also offer fire safety advice.
The Expo Story

RICI’s first Expo builds on our successful Disability Support Gathering held at The Oaks in Warkworth in Nov 2025. This inaugural gathering was held at The Oaks in Warkworth on November 13 and brought together service providers, support groups, funders, community advocates and other key disability initiatives from across Rodney. Feedback from the groups were that a community Support Expo would be of great value to the residents of Rodney. Planning for the 2026 Expo began in earnest from July.
Presented by Rodney Inclusive Communities Initiative (RICI), and working with Disability Connect, the Rodney Support & inclusion Expo has three main intentions:
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Create an opportunity for the public to connect with local services and support organisations that care for people with disabilities, chronic illness, neurodivergence, mental health challenges, or ageing‐related needs.
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Empower local disabled people and family carers with local information, transition resources, community, micro-enterprises, and self‐care tools
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Provide a welcoming and informative event for those who may be interested in working or volunteering in this sector
Our Strategic Partner

Our Sponsors


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Our Local Supporters



“There are only four kinds of people in the world.
Those who have been caregivers.
Those who are currently caregivers.
Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver.”
― Rosalyn Carter
