NZ wheelchair designs go around the world

A Christchurch wheelchair manufacturer, Melrose Kiwi Concept Chairs, has seen its products used at major international events, including the Commonwealth Games. The company, founded over 30 years ago by Phil Melrose, who was injured in a power boat accident, specializes in creating personalized wheelchairs for various disabilities and ages. The chairs can be customized in terms of height, length, upholstery, and other features, even with colorful graphics like butterflies and cartoon unicorns.

Philippa Melrose, the daughter of founder Phil Melrose and sales manager, shared that witnessing someone use their wheelchair for the first time can be a deeply emotional experience. The company also produces sport-specific wheelchairs, including models for wheelchair rugby, basketball, tennis, and table tennis, which have been exported worldwide.

Melrose chairs were used by New Zealand lawn bowler and Australian wheelchair basketball team members during the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. New Zealand's wheelchair basketball team nearly made the cut for the games, despite not being selected. Team member Curtis Smith, who has used a wheelchair since the age of four due to spina bifida, highlighted the benefits of playing sports while in a wheelchair, stating it enables individuals to engage with their peers and lead a more fulfilling life.

Another team member, Finn Richardson, who became paralyzed from the chest down in a mountain bike accident, now enjoys wheelchair basketball and has his sights set on trying skiing using a Melrose sit-ski. Smith emphasized the importance of day wheelchairs in enhancing people's sense of independence, as these customized wheelchairs enable users to experience activities they previously couldn't, such as visiting malls, bars, and supermarkets.

These day wheelchairs are often funded by the Ministry of Health and Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), and many sports groups have access to specialized chairs for their athletes.