Chris Bishop Celebrates New Zealand Paralympic Team's Triumph

Anna Taylor's silver in the C4 3000m in the velodrome on day four put New Zealand on the medal table, sparking a series of podium finishes.

Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop has extended heartfelt congratulations to New Zealand’s Paralympic team following their outstanding achievements at the Paris Paralympic Games.

“The success of our Paralympic team in Paris included remarkable performances, with personal bests, New Zealand records, and Oceania records shattered—and, of course, many Kiwis proudly standing on the podium,” said Bishop.

The 24 Kiwi Paralympians showcased their skills from start to finish. Nicole Murray set the tone by breaking the New Zealand record in the C4-5 500m time trial qualification on day one. Peter Cowan closed the Games by winning a bronze medal in the para canoe men's VL3 200m.

Anna Taylor's silver in the C4 3000m in the velodrome on day four put New Zealand on the medal table, sparking a series of podium finishes. The Stade de France was a stage for many of these moments, including Will Stedman’s silver in the men’s 400m T36 final, Holly Robinson’s bronze in the women’s shot put F46, and Danielle Aitchison’s two silvers in the 100m and 200m T36 events.

The highlight was Anna Grimaldi’s gold in the 200m T47, setting a new Oceania record. Grimaldi became just the third Kiwi Paralympian to win gold in three consecutive Paralympics, joining the ranks of Dame Sophie Pascoe and Eve Rimmer.

“It wasn’t all about medals, though. Even in moments of disappointment, our Paralympians displayed tremendous integrity and sportsmanship, always showing respect for their competitors and gratitude to their supporters,” Bishop noted.

The minister acknowledged the immense support system behind the athletes, including the Paralympics New Zealand team led by Chef de Mission Raylene Bates, High Performance Sport NZ, Sport NZ, and the athletes' families.

“None of this success would be possible without the families who have supported these athletes from the start. It was a joy to see the pride in the faces of parents, siblings, and loved ones as they watched their Paralympian compete on the world stage,” he added.

With an eye on the future, Bishop expressed confidence in the team’s preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics, eager to see what new achievements lie ahead.

“To our Paralympians: I look forward to seeing what you give us to talk about next,” Bishop concluded.