Rural theme for Te Awamutu Christmas Parade float

Staying sun-smart under his umbrella is Danny Te-Teira.

ConneXu's choice of a farm scene on the side of its float in this year's Te Awamutu Christmas Parade probably wouldn't be an obvious one for most people.

"However, the paintings illustrate the fact that people ConneXu support are proud of being part of the community, and that many of them have jobs helping to care for the local environment," says ConneXu chief executive Fern Ryan.

"Having a disability has not held them back from being able to help make Te Awamutu a place rich in both agriculture and horticulture and a beautiful place to live.

"We focus on person-centred support, which is where we encourage people with disabilities to make their own decisions on what they want to do in life.

"Often their goals include being more independent, to have a job, and a desire to be a part of their local community.

"Many of the people we support are proud to be achieving their aspirations through being employed in jobs such as lawn mowing, and maintenance work on local farms and properties."

Designed by ConneXu community facilitator Sean Ryan, the float was aptly named 'Kiwiana Christmas Farmer', and was built and painted by ConneXu staff and the people they support.

"All the team thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the float build process, and of course, taking part in the parade itself," says Mr Ryan.

Mrs Ryan was very complimentary of the day.

"Our whole team loved being a part of this great community event. Well done to the organisers who did a great job putting together a successful parade enjoyed by all."