Support our Kiwi Paralympians

SUPPORT: Paralympian Duane Kale alongside the Spirit of Gold collection.

Last week a collection of 12 portraits of some of New Zealand's Paralympians was on display at the Arena Manawatu charity auction.

The Spirit of Gold tour and auction hosted by The Manawatu Chamber of Commerce raised more than $4000 for the New Zealand Paralympics team and local para-athletes.

The collection painted by Kiwi artist Amber Stephens is touring all over New Zealand in the hope of raising enough money to get our Kiwi Paralympians to the September Rio games.

Paralympics New Zealand's Rachel Froggatt said the tour was designed to increase awareness of disability and show people what Paralympians can do, not what they can't do.

"We wanted to focus on educating audiences on the acceptance of disabilities and show that para-sport can be a way of life."

Paralympian Duane Kale says Paralympics is more than just sport -- it's about changing perceptions and making an impact.

"I have seen the evolution of para and para-sport and see that more people are starting to support a barrier free environment, with no stairs and being more accessible.

"Society is starting to really provide us with the best so we are able to perform at our best. I am sure the Kiwi athletes will do New Zealand proud again this year."

At the 2012 Paralympics New Zealand athletes finished first in the world per capita in medals. This year there will be more than 4000 athletes competing from 178 countries.

About 10 Kiwis will be selected based on their qualifications and the selection processes.

Their four leading categories will be para-swimming, cycling, para-shooting and athletics.