Blind Low Vision NZ’s 134-year anniversary

Celebrating 134 Years of Blind Low Vision NZ

Honouring the past, shaping the future – since 9 July 1890

On 9 July 1890, a group of passionate advocates gathered in the YMCA rooms in Auckland with a shared vision – to improve the lives of blind New Zealanders through education and skills training. By the end of that meeting, the Jubilee Institute for the Blind had been born. Officers were appointed, a committee formed, and the very first steps were taken toward building what would become Blind Low Vision NZ.

Social historian Greg Newbold reflects on this pivotal moment in his book Quest for Equity: A History of Blindness Advocacy in New Zealand. With the support of the Association of the Friends of the Blind and teacher John Tighe continuing in his role, the foundation was laid for more than a century of progress, inclusion, and advocacy.

As we mark 134 years since that moment, we’re reminded of the whakataukī:
“Ka mua, ka muri” – walking backwards into the future.

It’s a reflection on how the past continues to shape our direction today. As we honour the journey, we also look ahead with purpose. Our Strategic Plan 2024–2028 sets a clear vision for what’s next – one that continues to centre our community, expand access, and build a more inclusive future for all.

You can access the new Strategic Plan in accessible formats on our website or by calling the Telephone Information Service (TIS) and selecting menu 3 1 6.

Want to learn more about the roots of our movement?

Greg Newbold’s Quest for Equity is available in the Blind Low Vision NZ Accessible Library on our website – Book Number 055041.

To read it with your Alexa device, just say:
“Alexa, find 055041.”
Or search 055041 in your EasyReader app.

Here’s to the next chapter in our shared journey to an accessible and inclusive Aotearoa.