Based in Ōtepoti Dunedin, Bates is the high-performance Para lead at Athletics New Zealand and has been a vital cog in the sport since 2014.

In 2017, she was appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM).

"Paris 2024 is shaping up to be a truly memorable Paralympics for New Zealand," Bates said.

"I can’t wait to lead a performance-focused and inspirational New Zealand Paralympic Team.

"It’s a role I’ve dreamt of holding for a long time. It’s such a privilege.

"The Chef de Mission sets the tone for the Team, and that means I can help to ensure a positive and supportive environment and team culture.

"That in turn allows Para athletes, coaches and support staff to focus entirely on achieving their high performance goals."

Paralympics New Zealand Games campaign and sports manager Lynette Grace will assist Bates as the Deputy Chef de Mission.

Grace, who has prior experience in the role at Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022, praised performances of her country's athletes at recent international events, including the World Para Swimming Championships.

"Each edition of the Paralympic Games gets bigger and better in terms of the impact and the interest it generates from the New Zealand public," Grace said.

"We’re talking about more than sport - the Paralympics are a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on disability, inspire individuals, bring about social change, and promote inclusivity in Aotearoa New Zealand."

The Paris 2024 Paralympics sis scheduled to be held from August 28 to September 8.