Being the change we want to see in the world
Flying Kites exists to lead the change we want to see in the disability sector. We believe everyone who needs it should be able to access disability support services that are as unique as the person they are designed for. People don’t fit in boxes, so neither should our support services.
Flying Kites is a new organisation that has been established in response to what is currently available. We are here to reimagine what disability support could look like for you, your friends and your whānau.
Reimagining Disability Supports
We passionately believe that you need support that is tailored to your needs, and that anything less is a compromise that has strong ripples throughout your world.
We want to help you find support workers who connect with you and are motivated to do the work you want them to do. For some people a traditional support worker is the right fit. But for most people, they want a “Baking Buddy”, a “Pokémon Playing Partner” or a “Karaoke Singing Supporter”. We believe the magic happens when you bring people to work alongside you who share your interests, values and lifestyle.
When it comes to big life transitions (such as moving out of home, getting married or leaving a residential service) we believe that planning makes an enormous difference. We have seen the immense positive impacts that come from trusting in someone's potential, finding creative solutions and then leaping into the future together. We want this approach to be a reality for every person with a disability. We can help you plan this future, and make it a reality. We want to see you thrive when you take that leap, so we will walk alongside you to make it happen.
How We Help
Meet our team
Ainsley is the heart, brains and life force behind Flying Kites. After almost 20 years working in the disability sector, she has seen the best and the worst of what the current system has to offer. Ainsley passionately believes that each and every person deserves to live a life filled with joy, challenge and connection. Through Flying Kites, her aim is to reimagine what disability supports can look like – particularly for those who are struggling to find their place within current systems.
Emily has over 15 years' experience working in both Australia and New Zealand in the Health and Disability Sector. Trained as an Occupational Therapist and continuing her work in Public Health roles which have enabled her to view her work through a person-first lens, with increased knowledge and capability around disability, equity and navigating systems.
Emily is passionate about advancing and championing health and well-being outcomes for disabled people, their families and whanau leading to a more inclusive New Zealand.
Sarah is a dedicated professional with a background in banking and the public sector, specialising in data and analytics. She brings additional board and governance experience, as she has served on the board of Parents Centre Aotearoa since 2020. Leveraging her experience as a hard of hearing individual, Sarah brings another perspective to her work. Sarah is committed to the work Flying Kites does, championing inclusiving and ensuring everyone has the support they need to thrive.
Currently an Associate Director in the Student Services function at The University of Auckland, Justin spent the first 7 years of his career in the disability sector, working to bring about positive change for people and their families. With a good understanding of the challenges the sector faces and the opportunities to do better, he’s enthusiastic about lending his skills, knowledge, and experience to contribute to what Flying Kites aims to achieve.