The London 2012 Paralympic Games launched in unforgettable style on Thursday morning (30 August) NZ time, with Professor Stephen Hawking and Sir Ian McKellen appearing in a memorable Opening Ceremony at the Olympic Stadium. Eleven New Zealand athletes took part including flag bearer, Michael Johnson.

The event launched 11 days of competition involving 4,280 athletes from 164 countries competing across 20 sports - the biggest Paralympic Games ever staged.