BECOME A MEMBER

We believe that with support, nurturing, and training, any person with a disability can participate and succeed in mainstream sports. 
Provided you have a willingness to try, you can run. Current members of Achilles New Zealand who run have varied disabilities such as visual, cerebral palsy, paraplegia, arthritis, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, amputation, cystic fibrosis, not to mention those who suffer from stroke, cancer, traumatic head injury, and more. 
By training and racing together, our disabled and able-bodied athletes learn to support each other and focus on what brings them together, rather than what might keep them apart.

We welcome new members at anytime. If you are physically challenged and would like to participate in mainstream athletics, or to just come along and share the pleasure of fitness and sociability we offer - please make contact today, no matter where in New Zealand you live. 

VOLUNTEER TO HELP

Volunteers are vital to the Achilles community to provide companionship and safety. Good conversation is their greatest aid to training.
Some runners may use a wheelchair or prostheses or they may be blind, but through the assistance and training provided to them by volunteers of Achilles New Zealand, they are able to run in races.

While the general role is to accompany disabled runners during the course of a workout or race, on any given day an Achilles volunteer will function as a member’s eyes, ears, guide, and motivator. 

We welcome new volunteers at anytime. Our needs include not only running guides, but fundraisers, administrators and much more. Decide what skills, resources and/or time you would like to offer and contact us with your details for consideration.

HOW YOUR MEMBERSHIP WORKS

Anyone of any age with a disability and who wants to run is welcome to become a member of Achilles New Zealand. Our Joining fee is $40 and our Annual membership fees are $50. to become a member Just complete our online Membership Application Form by clicking below and one of our volunteers will make contact with you. Or review our FAQ's here...

Complete Our Online Membership Application Form

Please note: If running events are held outside of the city where you reside, Achilles NZ may be able to help with some financial assistance by meeting some or all of the race fees and some part of the costs of room and board at the city where the event takes place. However you will be responsible for your own transportation costs.

TIPS FOR VOLUNTEER GUIDE RUNNERS

If you're considering becoming a volunteer running guide we have a few tips here for working with disabled athletes.

FORTNIGHTLY TRAINING SESSIONS 

Why not drop by and join us for a Sunday morning training session to learn more. Sessions available in Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington and Christchurch presently. All athletes, guides and volunteers are welcome.

AN EMPHASIS ON FUN FOR CHILDREN

We think it's important that every child with a disability is encouraged to participate in physical activity in whatever way they can. We can help them enjoy the challenge of running, rolling or walking and we'll do all we can to bolster their self-esteem along the way - and have some FUN. 

Throughout the year Achilles Kids are invited to participate in our Sunday training sessions and in any event that our other Achilles athletes will be attending. We'll pair them with other children where possible and be with them every step of the way, providing cheery encouragement and support.