After writing that wee rant last week about Countdown’s wonderful new inaccessible self-service checkout kiosks, it got me thinking about better alternatives. I struggled at first to think of any company, either in NZ or overseas, that takes universal access seriously enough to incorporate it into any of its product design. And then it hit me. Our much-lauded national carrier, Air New Zealand, have these amazing checkin kiosks in their domestic terminal, one of which is not only totally accessible to those in wheelchairs but clearly signposted too!

You can see the great signage in the picture above, and let me tell you, these are an absolute treat to use. I fly with Air NZ quite frequently, and even though my visits require a trip to the special assistance counter to speak with airport staff, I always check in using the kiosks first, because it’s just such a wonderful experience. Sure, the user interface is great, and the process is simple, but the fact they care enough to put in a dedicated kiosk for those with limited mobility?

Well that, as they say, is priceless.

Your questions answered!

I’ve been to many Big Day Outs. I’ve never been able to see much, as might be obvious to many of you. I have nonetheless persisted, taking solace in the fact that I’m not only enjoying (albeit sans visuals) world-class music, but also socialising in confined, sweaty spaces with my peers – very important in youth culture, you see. But this year – oh boy, this year – the BDO organisers had erected a platform in front of the main

Thanks to Barbara Hart for this great review! The Rendezvous Hotel was great. It has an underground walkway to the Aotea centre which is why I chose it. I booked a twin disability room as I had a friend staying with me. Best thing was the parking, large disability parking close to the door to the reception, and it cost $10 a day. A very helpful concierge took my bag to my room for me. The room was huge. Plenty

The only accessible toilet hidden away in the women’s bathroom? Lippy staff? The Matterhorn had it all! Thanks to Nic Steenhout for this excellent review. Recently, my partner and I went for dinner at the Matterhorn restaurant in Wellington. As we are not located in Wellington, this was a special trip for us. The evening was enjoyable, despite several hiccups. The food was good, and its presentation excellent. The wines were very good. The accessibility was, sadly, far less than

I’ve been meaning to check out this new Kingsland cafe for quite some time, and finally got around to it today. Unfortunately, like most places on New North Road, parking is a little hit and miss, so it might pay to prepare for a bit of a walk from a nearby parking space. Anyway, turns out that Shaky Isles is a delightful little place to stop for lunch, and pretty accessible too! We walked in and thought… no problem! I

I’ve written about Auckland’s Re-Li-On-Us Mobility Taxis before, who are – in my humble opinion – the best mobility taxi option around, but as part of our latest iPod competition, here are Saphiya’s thoughts… They have a toll-free number – 0800 025 999 I especially liked the service as it was appreciating and was naturally friendly. ARTA’s Total Mobility swipe card is accepted. Easy to get in and out of vehicle. Saw that there was a first aid pack and

Thanks to Saphiya for this review! We went here earlier in the year and although prices were steep, an adult being $26.00 we did the family pass of 2 adults and children for $52.00 and were told that we could enter and exit the village when we wanted and until the village was closed (but no, we didn’t stay the whole day!) Firstly, there was a lot of space to park; it was so empty that we didn’t even need

Thanks to Sally from Wellington for this review! The best accessible establishment is the Wellington City Library/Civic Square in Wellington. There are numerous designated disability carparks located in front and to the side street of the library, and in the library’s basement carpark. You never have to travel far from the car to the library or the Square. Two sets of lifts take you quickly to any of the three floors of the library and a lovely little cafe which

Staying in Auckland and looking for accessible perfection? Look no further than the luxurious SKYCITY Grand Hotel, for whilst it’s not quite perfect, it’s about as close as anything I’ve ever experienced. Keep reading for the full rundown! Located right in the heart of Auckland City, the SKYCITY Grand Hotel is about as central as it gets, walking/wheeling distance to heaps of Auckland’s fantastic tourist attractions, nightlife, as well as the waterfront tranquility of the Viaduct Harbour. Funnily enough, though,