Autism NZ boss loves home turf in the Hutt
Dane Dougan belongs to a well-known Lower Hutt sporting family. A former boss at Softball NZ, Dougan has carved out a niche for himself as the chief executive of Autism New Zealand. He has fought hard to get better resourcing and raise the profile of the
I was born and raised in the Hutt and have always loved being part of the community. It has been awesome to raise my own kids here and see them thrive in a close-knit and supportive place. I also work within the Hutt too, so it really is my home turf.
There are many great walking and running tracks throughout the Maungaraki hills, where I live, that I love. The views are second to none, so getting out in the hills is always great.
Café Figg in Petone does a great trim flat white with a lovely outdoor space on a sunny day.
I’m lucky to have a hybrid vehicle supported by Rutherford and Bond Toyota. It features the Autism NZ branding, where I am privileged to work, so I know that I am showcasing our work as I travel.
Kilim in Petone is always incredible and just so tasty.
I’m not online a whole lot but the spaces I do occupy are always discussing the need for increased autism support and services. There are a lot of people nationwide, and within the Hutt, who need greater support that they can’t access. Mental health support in particular, for autistic adults, comes up often as something we desperately need to get right. Accessibility in general is one of the biggest issues we need to face as a community – whether that’s for physical needs or access to the right support.
I like my routines, so it’s pretty much always the same – gym at City Fitness in Petone, a coffee at Café Figg and then I usually watch sports involving my kids. I wouldn’t really change it – exercise, kids, sport and good coffee make the perfect morning for me.
There are now two players in the Black Caps who play for Hutt District Cricket Club, which I also played for as a junior.
I tend to head home or the gym, or go for a run.
I spend a bit of time over at the Rydges Wellington Airport [hotel], because the manager is a good friend. So a glass of rosé with the background of the planes taking off probably is my guilty pleasure.
I would invest in our water infrastructure and, just as importantly, create more inclusive and accessible spaces for our autistic community.
There are so many members of the autistic community who would be so deserving, and are working tirelessly to advocate further for the community. One of our board members, Joanne Dacombe, is one advocate who doesn’t receive enough recognition for her endless support and input.