Support Grants
Blind Low Vision NZ administers a number of funds that provide additional financial help and support to people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision. If you need financial assistance meeting the costs of vision rehabilitation, or tertiary education we may be able to help.
For more information about our funds and trusts please contact 0800 24 33 33 or email
PF@BlindLowVision.org.nz.
Sir Arthur Pearson Memorial Fund
The Pearson Fund can provide grants to applicants for a range of items that support with the additional cost of being blind, deafblind or have low vision. For more detailed information please see the Pearson Fund Guide to Operations, or get in touch with us.
Pearson Code for Vision Store Purchases
The Vision Store (shop.visionaustralia.org), a collaborative effort between Blind Low Vision NZ and Vision Australia, provides the latest, state-of-the-art assistive technology products. We appreciate that often, the equipment you need can be costly.
That’s why the Pearson Fund is available to help reduce the overall cost of the equipment for you.
The Pearson Code can be applied during the checkout process. This is not to be used for commercial purposes by government agencies or other businesses and may be subject to change. Always check the website for the most up-to-date information.
Use the code PEARSON to get a standard 25% off all purchases over $500.
Use the code 50PEARSON to get 50% off all purchases up to $500.
Please note, applications for technology require an assessment with one of our technology specialists. If you are applying for funding support for glasses or hearing aids, please see the specific application form and guide.
Pearson Fund Guide to Operations
Pearson Fund Client Application Form
Oppenheim Tertiary Education Trust Fund
Are you a Blind Low Vision NZ client thinking about tertiary study, or already enrolled in a course? Whether you’re just finishing school or looking to take your next big step, the Oppenheim Tertiary Fund is here to support you.
This fund was created by Dr and Mrs Oppenheim to help students like you succeed at tertiary level. Each year, the fund provides a limited number of grants to help cover course fees for recognised degrees or vocational qualifications. The focus is on school leavers, but adult students may be eligible too, especially if you’re still on your way into your chosen field.
What the fund covers:
- Course fees only – not enrolment or registration fees, textbooks, travel, or accommodation
- Grants are paid directly to your tertiary provider
Important dates:
- Applications open: 1 September
- Applications close: Wednesday 14th January 2026 at 1pm
- Outcomes announced: Mid-February
Thinking of applying to for assistance from the Oppenheim Fund? Please do!
The Oppenheim Fund exists for you, opening up opportunities and reducing some of the pressure that can come with studying.
If you’re committed to your studies and ready to take this next step, we encourage you to apply.
You’ll need to submit your application through our website.
The application form will go live here 1 September.
In the meantime, make sure you have the following documents ready to submit:
- A cover letter – a chance to tell your story, your goals, and why you’re studying
- Confirmation of enrolment
- An invoice or quote for your course fees
- Results from your previous study
- A recent letter of support from someone at your tertiary institution
- (And if something is missing, just include a note to explain why)
Questions? We’re here to help – email us at Oppenheim@BlindLowVision.org.nz
For any enquiries please refer to the Oppenheim Applicant Guide below, or contact us at Oppenheim@BlindLowVision.org.nz or 0800 24 33 33.
Henderson fund
This Trust seeks to provide assistance for those who are blind, deafblind or have low vision up to the age of 21 years in the New Plymouth, Whanganui, Manawatū, Wairarapa, and Wellington areas. Funding can also be applied for children who have received assistance from the Henderson Trust Fund and no longer reside in such areas.
For more information, please contact us directly at PF@BlindLowVision.org.nz
The Shirley Owen Trust
Are you learning a musical instrument and a client of Blind Low Vision NZ? Do you need music lessons or access to Braille music? The Shirley Owen Trust is here to help.
Established by the late Shirley Owen, the Trust has gifted Blind Low Vision NZ a sum of money that is available for clients who wish to study music. This Trust supports with the cost of tuition fees, access to braille music and limited funding is available to assist in the purchase of instruments.
Learn more by downloading the application form and guide below.
Forsyth Fund
The Forsyth Fund welcomes applications for financial assistance to clients of Blind Low Vision NZ who live within the boundaries of
(a) The Waikato Regional Council, or
(b) The Waikato District Health Board.
Applications for financial assistance are received, from individuals and groups/clubs, to help clients enhance their potential and independence and/or promote life enrichment.
The Fund is primarily intended to help meet the additional costs of blindness.
The key areas for which grants are available are:
▪ provision of equipment directly related to sight loss
▪ assistance with sporting and peer support activities
▪ personal development and education
The Waikato Regional Committee administers the Fund on behalf of Blind Low Vision NZ and is able to receive applications at any time, preferably by email, using the appropriate form.
Applicants must seek funding from other sources, prior to applying.
Applications are accepted without this requirement, if applying for items of equipment costing $250 or less (excluding GST).
The Committee reserves the right to raise the $250 limit in special circumstances.
For enquiries and application forms, please contact the Blind Low Vision NZ Hamilton Office: ForsythFund@BlindLowVision.org.nz
Application Forms:
Individual Applicants
Applications for equipment costing $250 or less
Forsyth Fund Individual Application Form for equipment costing $250 or less
All other applications, including equipment costing over $250
Forsyth Fund Individual Application Form for all other applications, including equipment costing over $250
Group Applicants
Forsyth Fund Group Club Application Form
Forsyth Fund Accountability Form