How do we get autism support right in Aotearoa New Zealand?

This research project, conducted in partnership with autistic New Zealanders and their whānau, explores what “right” looks like when it comes to autism support — drawing on the values, experiences, and aspirations of those most affected.

A partnership approach

The project was designed with and for autistic people in Aotearoa New Zealand. Autistic advisors shaped the research questions, methods, and interpretation of findings. This participatory approach ensures the recommendations are grounded in lived experience, not imposed from outside.

The New Zealand context

Aotearoa New Zealand’s approach to disability support is shaped by its unique policy framework, including the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and the role of Māori concepts of wellbeing and community. The research explores how these contexts shape what good autism support looks like — and highlights where mainstream models fall short for Māori autistic people and their whānau.

What “getting it right” looks like

Participants described autism support that works as:

• Built on relationships: sustained, consistent support from people who know and care about the autistic person
• Flexible and responsive: adapting to how needs change over time and across life stages
• Strengths-based: starting from what the person can do and values, not deficit checklists
• Connected to community: embedded in people’s lives, not isolated in clinical settings
• Culturally responsive: grounded in Māori, Pacific, and other cultural frameworks where relevant

Implications beyond New Zealand

While rooted in the New Zealand context, the research has direct relevance for Australia and other countries building or reforming autism support frameworks. The principles of participation, flexibility, and cultural responsiveness apply broadly.