“New Zealand Paralympians have inspired many and have, whilst doing so, increased awareness, understanding and acceptance of disability in society.”

Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) were invited by their long-time partner Adecco New Zealand to celebrate their success at Rio 2016, with over 130 guests in attendance, including 23 Paralympians and New Zealand Prime Minister John Key.

Rio 2016 was New Zealand’s most successful Paralympic Games ever, winning 21 medals –nine golds, five silvers and seven bronzes- and finishing in 13th place on the medals table, the highest in history, and as the world’s No.1 country for medals per capita.

The athletes who competed in Rio shared this event with Sochi 2014 Paralympians Adam Hall, Carl Murphy and Corey Peters.

Swimmer Sophie Pascoe, New Zealand’s most decorated Paralympian ever, Rio 2016 flagbearers Liam Malone and Holly Robinson, and Sochi 2014 silver medallist Corey Peters were invited to talk about their sporting experiences.

“The Rio 2016 Paralympic Games was hugely successful for Para sports in New Zealand. The team performed exceptionally both on and off the field of play and the public fully embraced and celebrated their achievements,” said PNZ CEO Fiona Allan.

“There is no doubt that New Zealand Paralympians have inspired many and have, whilst doing so, increased awareness, understanding and acceptance of disability in society.

“Preparations are underway for the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games and the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.”

Two-time Rio 2016 gold medallist Liam Malone added: “The success that the team had in Rio really brought Para sport into the mainstream for the first time and we saw so much amazing support from New Zealanders.

“I look forward to being one of many New Zealanders that will again show their support as the winter Para athletes start their journey to qualification and hopefully selection to the New Zealand team at PyeongChang 2018.”

Whilst already preparing for the upcoming Paralympic Winter Games, Corey Peters said: “It was amazing to be able to watch our summer Paralympians in action in Rio. They made all Kiwis immensely proud and their achievements have certainly spurred me on.”

More information can be found on Paralympics New Zealand’s website.