New Zealand Accessible Holiday Accommodation
Author: Lianne Kalivati
Published: 2009/06/03 - Updated: 2016/03/18
Topic: Disability Travel Information - Publications List
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main
Synopsis: Comprehensive resource for those seeking accessible holiday accommodation in New Zealand.
Introduction
LIANNE Kalivati has an ambition: not only does she want to provide detailed, easily accessible information for carers and disabled individuals about accessible holiday accommodation in New Zealand, she also wants to produce a website so successful, she can work from home supporting husband Peter.
Focus
LIANNE Kalivati has an ambition: not only does she want to provide detailed, easily accessible information for carers and disabled individuals about accessible holiday accommodation in New Zealand, she also wants to produce a website so successful, she can work from home supporting husband Peter.
Peter was diagnosed in November 2006 with a progressive, debilitating and terminal disease (motor neuron disease). The average life expectancy of individuals who suffer from this disease is between two and five years. At this point Peter has lost the ability to use his arms and relies on the use of a wheelchair to maintain a degree of mobility and independence. He is totally reliant on a caregiver (usually Lianne) to meet his daily needs.
While traveling around New Zealand last year to watch their son compete in track and field events, Lianne spent a significant amount of time on the internet searching for accessible accommodation that was going to be suitable for Peter. So difficult and time consuming was it to attain any information, Lianne discussed the feasibility of creating her own website. Close friends Richard Laing and Lynda Beckham (graphic artists and web-site designers in the making) shared Lianne's enthusiasm and the results can now be viewed at www.accomobility.co.nz
The website is intended as a comprehensive resource for those seeking accessible holiday accommodation in New Zealand. Only accommodation with accessible facilities for the disabled or the infirm are included.
The site which lists hotels, motels and private bed and breakfast establishments offering basic to superior facilities, is being added to on a daily basis.
Lianne anticipates that over time the website will also include information about accessible attractions and activities around New Zealand.
While Lianne's role is to gain the support of proprietors, and advertise its existence to the New Zealand public as well as international disabled travelers, Richard and Lynda employ their artistic flair to fashion an appealing site.
Peter, in the meantime, is busy creating a database which will allow the team to keep track of the influx of information they are going to have to deal with. Peter is keen to leave both his wife, and his close friends with a guaranteed future income when he passes.
The team plan to donate a percentage of their income to the local Motor Neuron Association who have been so supportive of Lianne and Peter as they continue to face challenges on a daily basis.