Methodology – the processes and information that informed this report

At the heart of this report are the real experiences of disabled New Zealanders who navigated these stressful and uncertain times, and continue to do so. This report is largely based on information from DPOs and the experiences of their members during the COVID-19 emergency. Additionally, the IMM held seven in-person public consultation hui around the country, from Whāngārei to Invercargill. When restrictions prevented us from holding face-to-face meetings, additional virtual meetings were held. Consultation meetings were also held with organisations and individuals. Meetings and consultation hui had enhanced flexibility to enable the participation of disabled people. Disabled people were encouraged to share their stories by emailing or writing to us if they could not attend meetings. We heard primarily from disabled people, along with their whānau and people working in the disability sector. This report was also informed by disabled people’s experiences conveyed through other means, such as reports, surveys and information published by DPOs and other groups.