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The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower has arrived at Nelson Airport, ensuring anyone travelling with a hidden disability can discreetly signal their need for extra assistance or care.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a programme to assist those with disabilities that are not immediately obvious, such as autism, chronic pain, dementia, anxiety, visual or hearing impairment. The programme aims to make the invisible visible, by providing a symbol for people to wear that signals their need for additional support, help or a little more time.
Sunflower lanyards are now available at the Nelson Airport Customer Service desk for anyone to request. Airport staff have undergone awareness training to recognise the sunflower, understand some of the difficulties those wearing it may be facing, and how best to approach and support customers with a hidden disability.
Nelson Airport customer service manager Mike Jukes says the airport is proud to be a part of the programme.
“The airport is a space where everyone should feel welcome and supported. Ensuring the sunflower is available and acknowledged is an important part of ensuring the experience every person has here is a great one, and we’re very pleased to be joining the global community of sunflower supporters.”
Nelson Airport is joining a strong sunflower community within the NZ aviation sector, with other participants including Air New Zealand and airports including Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Hamilton, Invercargill, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Queenstown and Wellington.
“We are thrilled that Nelson Airport has joined the Sunflower network as part of their dedication to making travel more accessible for people with non-obvious disabilities,” says Hidden Disabilities Sunflower spokesperson Justin Bruce.
“Airports can be a challenging environment for many and we commend Nelson Airport who are working hard to ensure that every traveller feels included and supported where needed.”
Autism NZ Outreach coordinator for Nelson-Marlborough Felicity Marr says the airport’s adoption of the sunflower was exciting.
“Not all disabilities are visible ones. It’s wonderful to see Nelson Airport supporting our neurodivergent community and creating awareness for others who travel alongside them too.”
More information is available on the Nelson Airport website here.
