Remembering John Povey: A true advocate for accessible housing and independent living

It is with great sadness that CCS Disability Action mourns the loss of John Povey, a former long-standing LAC member in Northland and a passionate advocate for accessible housing.

A champion for change

John’s journey with CCS Disability Action began in the mid-1990s when he moved to Whangārei and was first supported by our own Moira Geerkens. At that time, affordable and accessible housing options for the disability community were extremely limited.

Recognising this gap, John became instrumental in highlighting the urgent need for change. He went on to help establish the Whangārei Accessible Housing Trust  alongside our Northland team and served as a founding trustee until recently.

A team player

Along with advocating for himself and many other disabled Northlanders for accessible housing, John found time to work in the garden centre run by CCS Disability Action Northland branch.

John also valued connection and camaraderie. He was a regular at ‘The Coffee Company’, a weekly group supporting disabled people on their journey to independent living, and he enjoyed the strategy and social spirit of the local Boccia Club.

Farewell John

John led with heart and showed unwavering determination and leadership.

His passing is a significant loss to our community and his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.

Moe mai rā John. Thank you for everything.