We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of ParaFed Canterbury Life Member, Phil Humphreys MNZM.

Phil, 78, had given more than 40 years of service to the community and to many people with a physical disability.

He was a board member of ParaFed Canterbury from 1985 to 2012, serving several years as chairperson. Phil used his background as a Navy physical training instructor to assist people with disabilities wanting to take up sport and recreational activities, as well as training disabled athletes nationwide, including Paralympians.

He was instrumental in helping bring wheelchair rugby to New Zealand in the early 1990's and volunteered at many wheelchair rugby events. He also gave his time to volunteer for other groups and organisations such as the Burwood Hospital Spinal Unit, Paraloan, and the Waimakariri Access Committee.

Phil received an Order of Merit from Paralympics New Zealand in 2001 and earlier this year was named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for "Services to people with disabilities and sport".

Our annual “Volunteer of the Year" award was renamed the “Phil Humphrey's Most Valued Volunteer” award in 2017 in recognition of Phil’s many years of voluntary service to ParaFed Canterbury and the community.

A memorial service for Phil will be held on Tuesday 7th January 2025.
See the link for more details A gathering to celebrate Phil

Our thoughts are with his wife Karen and his family at this time.

Article added: Tuesday 24 December 2024