The event at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron was attended by 160 guests, including Paralympic athletes and the country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

Cameron Leslie, a triple Paralympic gold medallist in swimming who also represents the country in wheelchair rugby, was among those to attend alongside a number of other Tokyo 2020 hopefuls.

"The one-year-to-go milestone is always exciting because it's when those long term plans start to come to fruition," he said. 

"It's a feeling I've had before but look forward to as we lead into what I hope to be my fourth Paralympic Games.

"Through Para-sport I have had unique opportunities which have played a massive role in my life. 

"Things like balancing life as an athlete, being a new father and working for Swimming New Zealand are what I enjoy. 

"I'm excited to see what the future holds across all aspects of my life – sport, work and family."

The Tokyo 2020 Paralympics will begin with the Opening Ceremony on August 25 next year.

PNZ has also launched its inaugural "Para Sport Pop Up" in Auckland where athletes were joined by local schoolchildren to promote Para-events.

The pop up told the story of New Zealand's Paralympic history through displays and video and offered "have a go" experiences.

It will now travel around the country in the lead-up to Tokyo 2020 to promote Para-sport.