Baycourt came alive recently as more than 450 parents, caregivers and children gathered for EPIC Families Live – the largest event for neurodiverse families ever held in New Zealand.

Hosted by Bay Paediatrics, the day-long showcase brought together leading experts, paediatricians, psychologists, therapists and educators to share practical tools and insights to help families navigate the challenges – and celebrate the strengths – of neurodiversity.

Founded by Freddie Bennett and Dr Sarah Moll, Extraordinary Parents and Incredible Children (EPIC) is a community initiative aimed at empowering families with understanding, confidence and connection.

“We were overawed, blown away and truly humbled by the commitment from both the audience and the speakers,” said Freddie Bennett, co-founder of Bay Paediatrics.

“Our mission is to give every family the tools to thrive. This event showed what’s possible when we stop trying to ‘fix’ ourselves and instead embrace who we are – our wonderfully unique talents, challenges and gifts.”

Dr Moll, a consultant paediatrician and child neurodiversity specialist, said the event’s scale and energy marked the beginning of something extraordinary.

“Every day, we see parents and caregivers who are asking for more guidance, support and confidence, so this is our way of taking the knowledge from the experts who have it, and giving it to the families who need it. The commitment from the families and the speakers today has been truly epic.”

Tauranga MP Sam Uffindell attended the event on October 12 with his family and praised the initiative for its community impact.

“I meet many constituents who have neurodiverse children, and having world-class expertise available right here in Tauranga is a game-changer,” Uffindell said.

He also acknowledged the people driving positive change.

“It’s inspiring to see Freddie, Sarah and the Bay Paediatrics team leading a movement that’s helping families not just manage, but truly flourish,” he said.

“That’s why we’re on a mission to establish the Bay of Plenty as New Zealand’s Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence.”

The sold-out event, Cracking the Neurodiversity Code, capped off Mental Health Awareness Week by proving that with the right knowledge and support, every family can be an EPIC family – and every child can lead an EPIC life.

– Supplied content