One of the oldest non-profit charities in Auckland, New Zealand
The Disabled Citizens Society (Inc) is a non-profit organisation that provides support in many areas for those with, or looking after someone with disabilities. Life skills, a link to the community, supportive employment, social interaction and more. Many of our members have made life-long friends at the DCS, and the change that we see in the lives of others is what keeps the team at the DCS striving to do more.
Founded in 1943 to support wounded, rehabilitating soldiers, The DCS has helped thousands of people over the past 81 years in a variety of ways.
Where friendship, dignity, and practical support come together.
For a small team, we have accomplished a lot and continue to support the disabled community in many ways. Being a non-profit organisation, we struggle to raise funds to support the well-being of people in various ways such as through our second-hand-shop, and supportive employment programs, through donations and bequests. There are many ways that you can get involved, and many ways that we can support you if you or a loved one has a disability. Look at your family and extended families and you will see someone who is a disabled person, not only by visual but can be a stroke victim, have mental health problems and other unseen disabilities, these are some of the people who walk through our doors looking for help and support. The DCS provides a family atmosphere which all attendees enjoy and who attend daily to enjoy the comradeship
81 years
And counting
Thousands
of individuals and families helped over the decades.
Meet the team
Some of our key members at The Disabled Citizens Society (Inc)
Dale Bousfield
Head Supervisor
John has been the General Manager of The Disabled Citizens Society since 2020. With a strong background in operations, team leadership, and community-focused initiatives, he plays a key role in overseeing the Society’s daily activities. His work spans everything from managing staff and volunteers, to liaising with families, support workers, and funding agencies. John is passionate about creating a safe, positive, and inclusive environment where people with disabilities can grow. He brings a practical, hands-on leadership style and is known for his reliability, integrity, and dedication to supporting others. Before joining DCS, John spent over three decades in the print and manufacturing industry, holding senior supervisory roles where he honed his skills in quality control, training, and operations management.
Lorryn
Assistant Supervisor
John has been the General Manager of The Disabled Citizens Society since 2020. With a strong background in operations, team leadership, and community-focused initiatives, he plays a key role in overseeing the Society’s daily activities. His work spans everything from managing staff and volunteers, to liaising with families, support workers, and funding agencies. John is passionate about creating a safe, positive, and inclusive environment where people with disabilities can grow. He brings a practical, hands-on leadership style and is known for his reliability, integrity, and dedication to supporting others. Before joining DCS, John spent over three decades in the print and manufacturing industry, holding senior supervisory roles where he honed his skills in quality control, training, and operations management.
Michelle Hutchison
Admin & Support
Lexie
Op Shop & Community Participation Coordinator
Emma Murray
Chairperson
Emma Murray
Emma holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Auckland and has extensive experience in business management, having served as a practice manager in the optometry sector prior to starting her family.
As a small business owner, she has developed and managed diverse ventures including a successful Airbnb, product design and sales to commercial clients, and the coordination of a prominent local craft market.
Emma brings valuable insight into disability and neurodiversity through her family background and is dedicated to supporting the continued success and impact of DCS.
Denise Kelsall
Board member
Denise Kelsall
Denise has a long-standing connection with DCS, both as the mother of a disabled son who has worked with the organisation for over 20 years and through her many years of prior service on the DCS board.
An Anglican priest, now retired but still active in church ministry, Denise holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Theology from the University of Auckland. Her career has also included roles in publishing and bookselling, alongside extensive governance experience.
She has served on numerous boards, including a 3 Tikanga board for women and children within the Anglican Church, and has chaired various church vestries throughout her ministry.
Itenali Vaihola
Board member
Itenali brings a nurturing, motherly presence to the DCS community. She’s well-known for her warmth, compassion, and hands-on approach - often found helping out in the DCS Op Shop alongside members and volunteers. As a parent of a DCS member, Itenali has a deep personal connection to the Society and a strong understanding of the value of inclusion, independence, and community support. She is passionate about empowering people through education, connection, and kindness. With a long career in education, youth work, and community support, including roles at Sylvia Park School, Korowai Manaaki Juvenile Detention Centre, and Sommerville Special School, she brings valuable experience, heart, and cultural insight to her role on the board.
Itenali Vaihola
I was born in Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu, and began my teaching career in Tonga after completing studies at Takuilau College and Teachers Training College. I taught in primary and secondary schools from 1994 to 2003 before moving to New Zealand.
Since then, I’ve worked in both mainstream and special education settings, including Sylvia Park School and Sommerville Special School. I’m currently with 3BF at Korowai Manaaki Juvenile Detention Centre, where I support and mentor youth.
I’m passionate about education, working with young people, and connecting across cultures. I also enjoy reading, travelling, and meeting people from all walks of life.
Mike Wansink
Board member
Mike Wansink
I am an experienced General Manager with many years of experience managing distribution and marketing businesses across New Zealand. I started my career as an engineer but transitioned into sales and marketing, gaining a Marketing degree from Otago University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Operations Management from Auckland University.
I am a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors and serve as a director at Coventry Group (NZ) Ltd. I live in East Auckland with my wife Christine and have three children and one grandson.
I’m a keen cycler and swimmer, and enjoy supporting a range of sports including rugby league, motor racing, rugby, and cycling. I’m proud to support DCS through my company, Konnect Fastening Systems, and enjoy contributing to the board in any way I can.
Angela Thompson
Board member
Angela Thompson
Angela brings a wealth of experience from both the corporate and not-for-profit sectors, with a strong background in staff training, strategic planning, event management, marketing, networking, team building, and fundraising.
A driven and community-focused problem solver, she combines practical skills with a deep sense of purpose. Her academic foundation in psychology, alongside ongoing engagement in local initiatives, has fostered a genuine empathy for vulnerable and marginalised groups.
Through extensive travel and time living abroad, Angela has developed a broad appreciation for diverse perspectives and cultures, embracing the growth that comes from new experiences and ideas.
