For as long as Pete can remember, he has been fascinated by rockets. Living with complex physical disabilities, Pete has spent countless hours watching rocket launches online and dreaming of the day he could see a launch in person. “Watching the rocket launch is something I’ve wanted to do always. I wanted to go to Florida to see rockets, I’ve been watching for years,” Pete shares.
Pete’s dream seemed out of reach until now. The challenges of needing two support people, a mobility van, and the financial resources made it difficult to turn this dream into a reality sooner. However, the time was right in March with Pete having the support available plus the resources he needed to pursue his goal.
Pete’s dream of watching a rocket launch was finally within reach. With the support of the Enliven Disability team, including Sam, Tania, and Dean, Pete worked to plan and organise the adventure. Together they had to carefully consider every detail, from food and blankets for the cold to medication, rocket schedule uncertainty and changes, and travel logistics. The excitement grew as the day of the launch approached.
The adventure to Māhia
On the night before the launch, Pete and his support team set off at midnight from home on a 3+ hour journey to Māhia. The drive could feel long and tiring but the anticipation kept everyone awake and excited, with Dean and Tania chatting the whole way Pete says. They arrived at the launch site around 3am, unsure if they were in the right place. They were just sitting in the dark and didn’t know where to look but as more vehicles started joining them, they figured they must be in the right spot.
Just before the launch (T-60 seconds!) a car pulled up with bright lights, and for a moment, they thought the car lights might make them miss the sighting! But then, they saw a bright light near the ground, the ignition and launch light, and a brief shape through the sky. “What a fizzer!” Pete says, as the rocket disappeared behind a huge bank of clouds after just a few short seconds. Despite the very brief sighting, the experience was filled with a lot of laughter. “10 seconds and lots of driving and all for 10 seconds, but it was fun,” Pete said.
The rocket launch Pete saw was Rocket Lab’s mission on 27 March 2025, named ‘Finding Hot Wildfires Near You’. This mission aimed to enhance OroraTech’s constellation capacity and enable continuous 24/7 monitoring for improving the security of people, forests, and infrastructure, especially in the face of increasing wildfire threats.
The joy of the journey
The adventure didn’t end with the rocket launch, and the laughing that lasted longer than the sighting. Pete and his support team waited for the sun to come up and enjoyed sandwiches on the beach. They kept laughing about the quick launch experience and the long journey they had tackled to see those few seconds of light in the sky. The drive back home was filled with conversations about the next adventure. “Let’s go!” Pete says, already planning what’s next.
Pete’s adventurous spirit made this a possible experience for everyone, it was the first time Dean and Tania had seen a launch too. With the support of Enliven Disability, and the careful planning and dedication of Pete and his chosen support, together they ensured that Pete could achieve his long-awaited goal. “It was great when I found out we were actually going to go to the launch,” Pete said. Pete visited Cairns in Australia before and now the rocket experience has reignited Pete’s excitement to plan more travel missions. Pete plans to visit Japan next to see the cherry blossoms, or the USA to see how rockets are built, and also Egypt.
The importance of accessible housing
Pete’s adventure shows the importance of suitable housing and the right support available when you need it. Before moving to Enliven Disability’s Rowan, Pete lived at his own home. If a house is not suitable for specific needs then it can be a struggle or hinder your independence. Now, with the support of Enliven Disability services, Pete can achieve his goals and experience life the way he wants to. “I’ve been living at Rowan for about 20 years,” Pete shares. The accessible home and dedicated team have supported him as he’s transformed his life, pursued his dreams, and enjoyed new and regular fun experiences. Money is a top barrier for disability travel. When you live with complex physical disabilities you need accessible vehicles and accommodation, and support people to journey with you so you pay for multiple rooms or airfares as an example. Flying economy class doesn’t always work for your equipment or support needs, and the lack of accessible activities and rooms means less availability.
Let’s make more possible
Everyday citizenship is possible when disabled people have the right support and the right housing. Enliven Disability services have made a significant impact on locals’ lives, and they continue to support people to realise their goals. We invite you to help build accessible housing with us. When you give a brick at www.giveabrick.org.nz you provide the necessary home where disabled people can live more independently and reach their goals.
Together, we can make dreams come true and create a more adventurous and joyful community. If you’d like to sponsor a trip for Pete and his two support team to Japan, USA, or Egypt then that would be amazing too! As Pete says, “Why not? Let’s go!”
Caption: Peter Ramsay on his way to Māhia.
