The addition of Para-canoeist Scott Martlew, and Para-cyclist Fraser Sharp, means that New Zealand will now send 31 athletes in all to compete in six sports.

The PNZ selection panel convened last week after the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) re-allocated the country two additional slots.

The re-allocation resulted from the IPC’s decision to suspend the Russian National Paralympic Committee (NPC) and subsequently all Russian Para-athletes from Rio, due to the country's widely reported doping problems. 

This verdict was upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after the Russians launched an appeal.

"I am so happy to be selected to compete at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games," said Sharp.

"This will be my first ever Paralympic Games, the pinnacle event for Para-athletes. 

"I will be wearing the silver fern with pride and riding my heart out for all New Zealanders."

The New Zealand Paralympic Team now consists of one canoeist, three sailors, three shooters, eight cyclists, eight swimmers and eight athletes.

Fiona Allan, the chief executive of PNZ, said: "I am pleased to confirm Scott and Fraser’s selection to the New Zealand Rio 2016 Paralympic team.

"Both Para-athletes are deserving of their place on the team and despite not having received selection until now, they have each maintained a full training schedule.

"Because of this continuing commitment, they have both been able to meet the Paralympics New Zealand selection criteria."