Current Focus

Guided by Meaningful Legislation

The government has created in the Building Act, legislation with real meaning. With the impetus and opportunity this provides, it is felt that the time is right to make a concentrated effort in respect of access to buildings for people with disabilities.

The Barrier Free New Zealand Trust has become the focal point on access issues for not only people with disabilities but also territorial authorities, architects, engineers, the building industry and the wider community. Some of our current projects and initiatives include:

Training Pathways 2008

The Trust recently launched a new training programme, Training Pathways 2008. Our two-day Barrier Free Seminar covers four primary Modules: Experience of the Accessible Journey; The Law, Access and the Accessible Journey; Designing the Accessible Journey; and Assessment of the Accessible Journey. The 2-Day Barrier Free Seminar is recognised by BOINZ, the NZ Institute of Architects, and Department of Building and Housing, and seminar attendees will be eligible for Professional Development (CPD) points upon satisfactory completion of training modules.

Seminars are conducted throughout NZ and more information is available on our Training and Education page.

Barrier Free Handbook

Our Barrier Free Handbook outlines a comprehensive checklist of more than 170 design specifications required to make a building approachable, accessible and usable for all people. This handbook describes the specific access requirements in a context of Universal Access design, which improves usability of the built environment and promotes safety and well-being for everyone in the community.