Celebrating Neurodiversity: valuing different ways of thinking across our Campuses

Kaimahi and ākonga are invited to the Mt Albert Campus for a special student-led event called ‘Every Brain is Different’. This will be held at the Events Kitchen in Te Puna on Wednesday, 18 March 2026 from 11am-1pm.

Activities being organised by Access 4 Success team include: Make your own slime for some sensory stimulation, share how your brain works via our sticker poll, and enter the draw to win $50 vouchers from different retailers.

“Recognising Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2026 is important in building a culture which values neurological differences and fosters inclusion,” says Julie McGregor-Martin, Organisational Development & Equity Manager – Tāmaki Makaurau.

What is Neurodiversity?

Around 15–20% of the population has a neurological difference.

Many people in our community use neurodiversity as an umbrella term used to describe alternative thinking styles such as Dyslexia, DCD (Dyspraxia), Dyscalculia, Autism and ADHD. But regardless of labels, neurodiversity is about recognising those who think differently.

Neurodiversity is about valuing these differences as natural forms of human diversity and creating environments where everyone can thrive.

“By sharing information on neurodiversity resources, events and networks, we want to support our kaimahi to build awareness and make use of the tools that will remove barriers to inclusion and help us all thrive together,” McGregor-Martin explains.

Did you know?

• Although we talk about specific neurodifferences such as Autism and Dyslexia, the reality is that these can co-occur
• Every neurodivergent individual has a unique pattern of strengths and challenges
• We tend to operate on an approach to diagnosis and labels which can mean that quite often the focus is on the challenges rather than the many strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals
• It is important that we take a person-centred approach, by tailoring strategies to each individual
• It is important to harness the strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals, this helps to build confidence and self-esteem, and ensures individuals are given the opportunity to flourish in their day-to-day
• And embracing disability and neurodivergence in vocational education is essential for building a truly inclusive and equitable Aotearoa New Zealand. It ensures that all learners—regardless of ability or cognitive style—can access meaningful education, develop their skills, and contribute to the workforce in ways that reflect their strengths.

Resources

We’re committed to building workplaces where neurodivergent kaimahi feel seen, supported and empowered. To help you learn more and build inclusive practices, explore our newly refreshed resources:

🔗 Mitnet – Disability, Neurodiversity & Accessibility

🔗 Te Aka – Disability, Neurodiversity & Accessibility

Kaimahi groups

We have two kaimahi group channels across Tāmaki for kaimahi, carers and allies to connect, share and support one another. Kaimahi are welcome to join either or both the Neurodiverse Kaimahi Network or Staff with Disabilities & Chronic Illness Network.

General | -Neurodiverse Kaimahi Network | Microsoft Teams

General | -Staff with Disabilities and Chronic Illness Network | Microsoft Teams

Both groups are voluntary and grounded in accessibility, confidentiality and respect. Join via Microsoft Teams and be part of our growing community.

Events

Join thousands in attending the neurodiversity week panel discussions and webinars throughout the week being run by Neurodiversity Week. They’re all online and free to attend! Sign up here: Neurodiversity Celebration Week