About us
Welcome to the Autistic Professionals Network - Palmerston North!
Are you on the Autism Spectrum and seeking connection and growth? Then please join our group of neurodiverse professionals in Palmerston North!
We together embrace and celebrate neurodiversity through professional networking, career development, and shared life experiences.
We welcome all neurodivergent individuals recognising the rich mosaic of perspectives that ASD intersects with like ADHD, Dyslexia or Dyspraxia.
If you self-identify as neurodivergent you are welcome here.
Our safe and inclusive space fosters learning, support, and navigating the unique challenges and triumphs of neurodiversity in the professional world.
We're grateful for our neurotypical allies (also welcome to join this group) who build bridges and amplify our voices. Let's all celebrate the beautiful symphony of neurodiversity together.
If you'd like to get in touch with the organisers — for volunteering, sharing feedback, offering suggestions, or anything else — please send us an email at APN_Palmy@proton.me. You can also follow us on Facebook. We look forward to hearing from you!
Please note that we're individual neurodiverse people sharing our thoughts on career, business, and life. We are not a professional counselling or therapy group. If needed, please seek professional support. Thank you for understanding.
We are affiliated with the Autistic Professionals Network - Wellington, and are extremely grateful to the Wellington organisers, Robert and Crystal, for their support.
We look forward to welcoming you to our next event!
Code of Conduct
By attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.
FAQs
Do I need a formal diagnosis to attend?
No. If you are self diagnosed, or just wondering if you might be neurodivergent, you are welcome. Neurotypical allies are also welcome.
What do you mean by “professional”?
If you’re asking that question then you probably fit. Most of us do not go to work in a suit and tie. Whether you do paid work, volunteer work, or are looking for work, you are welcome to join us. Students are absolutely welcome.
Do you have a dress code?
No, wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Most of us are pretty casual (jeans, t-shirts etc.) but it’s entirely up to you.
Am I too old?
Absolutely not. Our membership encompasses a wide range of ages.
Upcoming events
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Let's visit the Urban Eels
He Ara Kotahi Bridge, Corner Dittmer Drive and Ruha Street, Palmerston North, NZLet's take a walk along the river to the Urban Eels platform. We'll get to enjoy the autumn weather, hang out with our neurodiverse friends, and maybe see an eel.
We'll meet at the Dittmer Drive end of He Ara Kotahi Pedestrian Bridge at 10am. Look for the person holding the sunflower sign. The walk is mostly flat. It's 3.8 km (return) and will take approximately 50 min.
After the walk we can grab a coffee or a milkshake at the coffee cart and hang out by the river. Newcomers are always welcome. Eel sightings are not guaranteed but it should be a fun morning out.
What if it’s raining?
If it’s raining, we will cancel the event. You will receive a notification from Meetup if the event is cancelled. Please make sure you have notifications turned on. We will also post a message on our Facebook page on the morning of the event if we have to cancel.Code of conduct
By attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.7 attendees
From Fridge to Fed: Why Toast is a Valid Dinner
Hancock Community House (Blue room), 77 - 85 King Street (near UCOL), Palmerston North, NZFunctional food systems for the neurodiverse brain when executive dysfunction takes hold
Feeding ourselves sounds simple, but for many neurodivergent adults it can be surprisingly difficult. Executive function challenges, interoception differences, energy limitations, and everyday life pressures can make planning, preparing, and eating regular meals feel overwhelming.
This practical and compassionate seminar explores why nutrition can be challenging for neurodiverse brains and introduces realistic strategies to make feeding yourself easier. We'll discuss the science behind executive function, dopamine, and hunger signals, and share practical “food system” hacks such as component cooking, freezer strategies, low-effort meals, and ways to reduce decision fatigue.
This session focuses on building flexible, functional systems that support you when motivation, time, or energy are low — because sometimes toast really is a valid dinner.
Newcomers are welcome. We look forward to seeing you!
Code of conduct
By attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.4 attendees
Autism assessment and diagnosis seminar
Hancock Community House (Blue room), 77 - 85 King Street (near UCOL), Palmerston North, NZDetails coming soon!
Code of conduct
By attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.4 attendees
Autism and the law
Hancock Community Centre, 77-85 King Street, Palmerston North, NZJoin Barrister and Solicitor Timothy Leighton for a straight-talking, practical session on the New Zealand legal system—and what it really means for the neurodiverse community.
This isn’t theory. It’s real-world law.
Timothy will break down how the criminal justice system operates through a neurodiverse lens—what happens in police interactions, in court, and where things can go wrong.
He’ll also tackle school discipline: what the law actually allows, where systems are misused, and how to protect your people when it matters.
This session is for- Autistic individuals and their families.
- Professionals workings with neurodivergent people.
- Anyone who wants to understand rights, risks, and protection.
What to expect
- Clear, no-nonsense legal insights
- Practical guidance you can actually use
- Open discussion—questions and shared experiences encourage
Dinosaur's may be discussed. Lego probably will be.
About Tim Leighton
Timothy Leighton is a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand (admitted 2022) and an experienced criminal defence lawyer. He has represented clients across a wide range of matters—from drink driving through to serious charges including murder and sexual offending.
He now practises in Wellington with Frontline Law, with a focus on:- Criminal Law (PAL 2 Legal Aid Provider)
- Civil Litigation
- Employment Law
- Education Law
Outside the courtroom, Timothy enjoys building Lego.
Disclaimer
This session is general information only. Tim Leighton is a lawyer, but not your lawyer. Every case turns on its own facts—and yes, there are always exceptionsCode of conduct
Attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.6 attendees
Past events
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