# What autism support is available for children in New Zealand?

> Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC), Child Development Services, autism support services and school support.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/autism-support-new-zealand
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** In New Zealand, families can contact their regional Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) organisation directly, with no referral needed, to find out what disability support is available. Autism support services are funded through Disability Support Services at the Ministry of Social Development. Child Development Services and your GP can help with assessment, and schools can access learning support.

**Key takeaways**
- Contact your **regional NASC** directly; **no referral** needed.
- Autism support is funded through **Disability Support Services** (MSD).
- **GPs** and **Child Development Services** help with assessment.
- Schools can access **learning support**.

## Where do I start?

Talk to your GP or Well Child Tamariki Ora provider about what you've noticed. You can also contact your regional NASC directly to ask about disability support.[1]

## What support is available?

| Service | What it does |
| --- | --- |
| NASC | Assesses needs and coordinates disability support |
| Child Development Services | Assessment and early support for young children |
| Autism support services | Funded through Disability Support Services |
| School learning support | Help for students at school |

Disability Support Services and KidsHealth list services and resources.[1][2]

**Start with small steps.** You don't need to wait for services to start helping at home. A simple visual schedule can make routines more
  predictable now.

## What can I do while waiting?

**Try:**
- Writing down what you notice
- Contacting your NASC
- Trying a visual schedule at home

**Skip:**
- Waiting for a diagnosis before trying anything

Free printable: [Free printable: appointment notes](https://theautismkit.com/printables/appointment-notes.pdf)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] Book a GP or Well Child visit
- [ ] Find your regional NASC
- [ ] Try one visual support at home

## Common questions

### Do I need a referral to contact a NASC?

No. You can contact your regional NASC directly.

### Where does assessment happen?

Often through Child Development Services or a paediatrician, after talking to your GP or Well Child provider.

### What does takiwātanga mean?

It's a te reo Māori word for autism, often translated as 'in their own time and space'.

## Sources

1. Disability Support Services (Ministry of Social Development): Autism support services. https://www.disabilitysupport.govt.nz/disabled-people/support-and-services/specific-disability-services/autism-support-services
2. KidsHealth NZ: Autism (takiwātanga) support resources in Aotearoa NZ. https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/autism-takiwatanga-support-resources-in-aotearoa-nz

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.