People for Us Launch - Press Release
Press release
1 September 2026
People for Us - a nationwide peer visiting service for disabled people across Aotearoa New Zealand
People for Us has officially launched, marking an important step in making sure disabled people living in homes funded by Disability Support Services are living a good life, getting good support and are safe.
People for Us is delivered by three providers:
- People First New Zealand – visiting people across Aotearoa New Zealand
- Te Ahi Kaa – visiting tāngata whaikaha Māori in Waikato and South Auckland
- Vaka Tautua – visiting Tagata Sa'ilimalo in Auckland.
The service is funded by Disability Support Services, which enables People for Us to visit disabled people living in community residential homes.
The official launch event was hosted by Disability Support Services at the Ministry of Social Development in Wellington on 31 August 2026.
Minister for Disability Issues Hon Louise Upston at the launch.
Hon Louise Upston, Minister for Disability Issues, spoke at the event and celebrated the launch.
"To the peer workers, you are what makes this service powerful. Your lived experience and understanding build the trust that helps disabled people speak up, access support, and achieve the outcomes that matter most to them." — Hon Louise Upston, Minister for Disability Issues
The event brought together disabled people, whānau, community organisations, providers, government representatives and people who have supported the development of the service.
The event highlighted the impact and value of a peer visiting service and the difference that visits are making for people.
“The real power of peer workers is the natural connection that comes from being a peer. It helps us build trust and understand what matters to the people we visit.” — Rozlyn Gielink, People First NZ People for Us Kaiārahi (Peer worker)
Roz and Kaysey presenting at the launch
“For me, People for Us is more than just a service it is about connection, belonging, and empowering people to thrive. I am proud to be part of a kaupapa that puts people first and to create positive change in our communities.” — Keegan Schindler, Te Ahi Kaa People for Us Kaiaarahi (Peer worker)
“Vaka Tautua makes a distinct difference as a Pacific provider because our People for Us team reflects the communities we serve. We bring lived experience, cultural knowledge, language, and strong community connections, allowing us to build trust, strengthen wellbeing, and support better outcomes for Pasifika people and their families” — Ray Faleafa, Vaka Tautua People for Us Peer worker
The service is already making a difference for disabled people across the country. By taking the time to listen and understand what matters to each person, People for Us works alongside people, whānau and providers to support positive, long-term change.
People for Us services will continue visiting disabled people across Aotearoa New Zealand.
People for Us is delivered by three providers across Aotearoa New Zealand. If you would like to find out more about the service or make a referral, you can contact the provider in your area.
People First New Zealand
Area: Nationwide
0800 241 241
Te Ahi Kaa
Area: Waikato and South Auckland
www.teahikaa.co.nz/our-mahi/peopleforus
0800 524 942
Vaka Tautua
Area: Auckland-wide
www.vakatautua.co.nz/people-for-us
0800 825 282
About People for Us
People for Us is a peer visiting service delivered by People First New Zealand, Te Ahi Kaa and Vaka Tautua. The service visits disabled adults, tāngata whaikaha Māori and Tagata Sa'ilimalo living in homes funded by Disability Support Services.
People for Us teams are made up of trained disabled people who visit disabled adults, tāngata whaikaha Māori and Tagata Sa'ilimalo.
During visits, they spend time getting to know people, listening to their experiences and talking about their lives, support, safety, rights and choices. They use what they hear to support positive change and better outcomes for people.
You can find out more at People for Us | Disability Support Services.
Media contact
Jordan Jacques
Communications Lead
People First New Zealand
Email: [email protected]