Not all “accessible” symbols mean the same thing. In New Zealand, facilities typically provide two distinct solutions for mobility needs: a fully accessible toilet (wheelchair-accessible room) and an ambulant toilet (standard-sized cubicle with supports for users who can walk but need stability). Both improve inclusion—but they’re designed for different users and follow different rules.

Quick definitions

Accessible toilet (wheelchair-accessible room)

A larger room that allows a wheelchair user to enter, turn, and transfer. Includes clear approach space, transfer zones beside the pan, compliant fixtures, and space for a carer if required. In NZ, design is guided by NZS 4121:2001 – Design for access and mobility within the NZ Building Code framework (G1, and related clauses).

Ambulant toilet (supported standard cubicle)

A regular-sized cubicle fitted with grab rails on both sides, correct pan/seat heights, and clearances that assist users with limited balance or who use crutches/walking frames. In NZ practice, ambulant details are commonly designed to AS 1428.1:2021 (by agreement with your BCA) where NZS 4121 is silent on ambulant compartments.

How they differ (in practice)

• Room size: Accessible = a full room with wheelchair turning/transfer space. Ambulant = standard cubicle width with rails and specific clearances.
• Users: Accessible = wheelchair users and those needing space to transfer or a carer. Ambulant = people who can walk but need stability/support (injury, crutches, some older users).
• Fixtures & rails: Accessible rooms follow NZS 4121:2001 layout rules (pan, basin, rails, turning circles). Ambulant cubicles follow AS 1428.1:2021 for rail diameters, heights, projections, and clearances.
• Doors & circulation: Accessible doors and circulation are larger (to accommodate turning/transfer). Ambulant doors are smaller but must still achieve specific clear openings and unobstructed approaches.
• Signage: Each needs clear, correct signage; ambulant cubicles must indicate left-hand or right-hand rail orientation.

Do you need both?

Often yes—especially in multi-cubicle public facilities. An accessible room does not replace the need for an ambulant cubicle (and vice versa). Your schedule of sanitary fixtures, occupancy, and local policy will determine exact numbers.

Common pitfalls (and easy wins)

Substitution error: providing only an ambulant cubicle when an accessible room is required (or the reverse).

Pinched clearances: basins/dispensers intruding into required approach space.

Poor wayfinding: missing or incorrect tactile/Braille; unclear left/right hand orientation for ambulant rails.

Slippery approaches: fix with FRP ramps that use non-slip, drain-through grating for safer entry in wet conditions.

How we deliver it

LooCube™ supplies buildings with accessible layouts to NZS 4121:2001 and ambulant cubicles detailed to AS 1428.1, documented for consent. We also provide compliant ramps, hardware, and signage—plus drawings and specifications tailored to your site and services model (off-grid or fully serviced).

Need an accessible room and/or ambulant cubicle in your next build?

We’ll prepare NZ-specific layouts and specs aligned to NZS 4121:2001 and AS 1428.1:2021—ready for BCA review. Contact WCTNZ® for design and pricing.