Every day, we support New Zealanders with vision loss.
Blind Low Vision NZ provide emotional and practical support, so that people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision can keep working and living independently. We meet people in their homes or at their local Blind Low Vision NZ office to collectively make this happen.
We also advocate for accessible and inclusive communities. We believe people with vision loss deserve equal access to public spaces, information and careers. This is made possible through education and removing barriers. At Blind Low Vision NZ we believe no goal is too big or small.
Who we help
We help New Zealanders who find day-to-day tasks challenging, even when wearing corrective lenses. In fact, a quarter of the people we assist are blind and the rest of those we help have low vision or are deafblind.
Maintaining independence is important – so we support people to get around safely using a white cane, public transport or a guide dog, prepare meals, use technology, stay in employment, or connect with others. No goal is too big or too small. The services we offer are vast.
Please look at the full range of our services to find out more.
Governance
Blind Low Vision NZ is a member-led organisation, governed by the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind (RNZFB). This means eligible voters can serve as governing members, electing our Board and helping us to guide the future direction of Blind Low Vision NZ.
Leadership Structure
The Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind (RNZFB) Board of Directors focuses on governance and strategic issues such as our purpose and direction. Blind Low Vision NZ’s Executive Leadership Team is responsible for making major decisions that impact and affect Blind Low Vision NZ.
Careers
Blind Low Vision NZ is committed to making the world a better place for people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision. Whatever your role is, we’ll invest in you and your future by supporting you and offering the learning and development opportunities you need.
“With Blind Low Vision NZ’s support not only did I get employed, but I started my own business, my own recording label.”
Ese - Founder and Director of Tejit Records
Corporate Partners, Trusts and Foundations
The life-changing work we do would not be possible without the support of corporate partners and supporters, trusts and foundations.
Our Locations
We have offices all across New Zealand. Find your nearest office or contact us to find out more about how we can visit you in your home.
Our Vision, Your Future
Nā matou te moemoea, nā koutou te tau tītoki.
In 2020, we proudly celebrated our 130th anniversary.
We looked ahead and with input from all stakeholders, we launched our renewed strategic direction.
You can download the plan in your preferred format below. To request the brochure in braille or large print, email afprequests@blindlowvision.org.nz
Download “Our Vision, Your Future” Plan
Make a Donation
Every day, more and more Kiwis join the blind, deafblind, or low vision community. Donations help them live a life without limits.
Position Statements
Our purpose is to enable people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision to be self-reliant and live the life they choose. Supporting our purpose statement on a fully accessible New Zealand, we also have a number of position statements on specific areas of accessibility, including access to information and communication, access to public transport and access to employment.