Who we are

BarrierFree exists to help public and private clients create buildings, spaces and transport networks that are accessible and welcoming to all.

Me he manu motu i te māhanga
Like a bird escaped from the snare

As an organisation, BarrierFree has a 25-year track record of advancing Universal Design in New Zealand. Our services include advocacy, training, technical and policy advice, and education. We work alongside organisations to create accessible designs that balance user needs, costs, regulations and aesthetics.

Always collaborative, always pragmatic, always outcome driven - we are here to assist our clients and to improve the lives of all New Zealanders, by championing a more accessible world.

Lorraine Guthrie

Chief Executive

Lorraine has been Chief Executive of BarrierFree since 2009. She brings a wealth of experience with a background in education and social sector management, as well as government. She also has 10 years of working with the disability sector and private and public sector entities on accessibility issues.

Lorraine’s focus is on achieving the best possible outcomes with usable and accessible spaces, while influencing and advising decision makers about how to achieve this. She passionately believes that access is fundamental to people being able to live their lives well and be part of the community in which they live.

Always practical and action-focussed, Lorraine believes the best way to improve accessibility is by providing solutions and working collaboratively with others to get the best results.