Walter Neilands

Walter Neilands is an upbeat entertainer who has been hosting, writing and producing media content for over a decade. He’s renowned for his high-energy creative activity on shows such as the hugely popular youth show Sticky TV and TV3’s Cadbury Dream Factory. A true all-rounder, he is also adept at compering and hosting live performances and emceeing.

Currently he is the executive producer of his own company Screengrab, an online video production company focused on marketing advertising.

In 2019, Walter brought his joyful spirit to Dancing with the Stars supporting Kidney Kids as his chosen charity. He wowed the nation and the judges by back flipping off the judges’ table! He’s proud to be a Kidney Kids ambassador, loves hanging out with our families and getting involved in our fundraising activities and events.

With his infectious energy and huge grin, Walter inspires our kids to be the best they can despite the challenges along the way.

Shaz Dagg

Shaz Dagg is a New Zealand para-athlete whose resilience and determination has made her an inspiration to many. Shaz has always been passionate about fitness and sport, especially running and cycling. After a farming accident in 2016, Shaz was left with a life changing decision – to amputate her arm and navigate life without it. Despite this huge challenge and major life adjustment, Shaz believes it is the best thing to ever happen to her.

“I would never, ever turn the clock back. These have been the best years of my life.”

Post accident, Shaz has taken her passion for fitness to a whole new level, having competed in numerous triathlons and sporting events including the Coast to Coast. She was selected to be part of the New Zealand Paralympic triathlon team to compete in Tokyo, 2020.

Shaz’s life with one missing limb is not her only challenge. Much like many of our Kidney Kids, Shaz only has one kidney. It makes her a very relatable inspiration and hero to our Kidney Kids.

Shaz lives her life to the fullest, facing new challenges everyday as she continues to adapt to her new ‘limb-it-less life’ proving determination and motivation is the key to success.

Katherine Paton

Former Kidney Kid, Katherine Paton is a New Zealand gymnast with end-stage renal failure caused by a genetic mutation. Diagnosed in 2008, she received a kidney transplant from her mother after seven months on dialysis, allowing her to compete internationally in rhythmic gymnastics and graduate university with a Vet Nursing degree. Katherine’s transplant lasted six wonderful years, but when her kidney eventually failed, she returned to dialysis.

Katherine didn’t let this stop her from doing what she loves. She resumed gymnastics, representing New Zealand at the 2017 Australian Nationals and competing in World Cups and a World Championship, all while on dialysis. In 2022, she received another transplant. Now 31, she remains an inspiring ambassador for Kidney Kids.