Welcome to Blind Low Vision NZ, Welcome to Auckland
For over 130 years, Blind Low Vision NZ helped New Zealanders living with blindness or low vision independently live their best lives. Our organisation is made up of passionate, supportive and knowledgeable individuals, committed to serving New Zealand’s blind and low vision community.
Why Auckland?
Inspired choice
As New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland is New Zealand’s financial and economic powerhouse, as well as the gateway to the rest of this beautiful country.
The modern city centre is surrounded by sparkling harbours, native forest, beautiful beaches and scenic wine regions.
Confident choice
Auckland is the city of choice when it comes to hosting local and international events. We have so much confidence in our Harbour City, that we’ve made a submission to host the International Guide Dog Federation in 2025. Being selected would present Blind Low Vision NZ with an exciting opportunity to really showcase our facilities against the backdrop of this lively, diverse 21st century city.
Impressive choice
Auckland is home to a wide range of world‑class convention and accommodation choices, from large facilities to boutique options. Most of the main convention centres are a short walk from popular attractions and the city has a myriad of transport options.
Accessible choice
Auckland is easily accessible from overseas, with a modern, efficient international airport. Passport holders from 60 visa waivered countries around the world can enter
New Zealand without having to apply for a visitor visa.
A world of choice
Whether it’s exploring our cultural markets, hiking through a beautiful rainforest, or thrill seeking at the Sky Tower, there’s always something to do on your downtime.
There aren’t many places in the world where you can transition from high street shopping to the beach in minutes.
Blind Low Vision NZ
Every day, an average of six New Zealanders turn to Blind Low Vision NZ for support with sight loss. Some are still reeling and seek emotional support; others want to plan a career, connect with others, or get around independently. All of them want to live full, productive lives.
Blind Low Vision NZ is here to provide counselling, advocate for inclusive communities and lead the way in vision rehabilitation.
We meet with clients in their homes or at their local Blind Low Vision NZ office to work with them to find the solutions that apply to their unique situations. Maintaining independence is important– so we support people to get around safely, use public transport, cook for themselves, operate technology, stay in employment, or network. No goal is too big or too small. The services we offer are vast.
Blind Low Vision NZ advocates for accessible and inclusive communities because we believe people with sight loss should be able to navigate public spaces like any other member of the community, access the same information, and pursue the career of their dreams without unnecessary barriers.
A career with us is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people with sight loss and make New Zealand a more accessible, inclusive society.
Our New Kennel Build
For 35 years, our Guide Dog Kennels in South Auckland have housed and trained some of Blind Low Vision NZ’s most important assets. More than just a canine companion, a well-trained guide dog provides some of our clients a the freedom and safety to navigate our busy world.
Why do we need to build a new facility?
We recognise that international best practice is continually evolving and here in New Zealand we want to be at the forefront of any new developments when it comes to introducing our dogs to training, to ensure the best possible outcomes for our dogs and clients.
The build of our new kennels will incorporate our holistic approach to breeding, training, and graduating successful guide dogs.
It will include:
- Larger open and shared spaces for our dogs to socialise. The main kennel wings are designed in such a way that our dogs will be able to see each other and our team members at all times.
- A hydrotherapy pool for dogs to cool off and play, including areas for swimming and physiotherapy.
- An enrichment ‘play’ park, featuring a variety of different surfaces (gravel, bark, bush etc.) and structures such as statues, fountains and children’s playground equipment to help build confidence when navigating real world situations. There will also be steps, ramps and obstacles to improve balance and coordination, and recall.
- An ‘isolation unit’ for sick dogs. This has become a critical issue for our kennels, as New Zealand faces frequent outbreaks of Kennel Cough, especially in Auckland.Our new facility for guide dogs in training will ensure happier, healthier guide dogs, ready to bring independence to New Zealanders with vision loss.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know us and our mission. We hope to connect with you again soon.