Kōrero: April 2025
Mā te ngākau aroha koe e ārahi.
Let a loving heart guide you.
This whakatauki is a call to lead with compassion, empathy, and care. It suggests that when you act from a place of love, you’ll find the right path, not just for yourself, but for others too.
Formats
Kōrero is emailed to all our clients and members, Consumer Organisations, and Community Committees on the last Thursday of every month. Kōrero is also available in the following formats:
- This webpage, available easily at blindlowvision.org.nz/korero.
- Korero Word document.
- Alexa: Say “Alexa, open Blind Low Vision”. Alexa will then guide you through the main menu. Then, at any point, say “Alexa, magazines”; and then “Alexa, BLVNZ Korero”.
- TIS (Telephone Information Service): Call TIS m 3 4 1. Find your local TIS number on our Library Services webpage.
- Braille: Download the BRF file of April 2025 Korero or call our Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33 if you would like to receive Kōrero in Braille.
Message from Andrea
Kia ora,
March was a busy and exciting month — with visits to Invercargill, Dunedin, and then overseas to the UK and Ireland.
It was lovely to meet with clients and our community support group in Invercargill. We had a great kōrero and I really enjoyed hearing what matters most to you. In Dunedin, we held a small event for one of our generous donors and toured the newly upgraded building — it was also a great chance to catch up with our fantastic local team.
Later in the month, I attended the Inclusive Design Summit in London. I saw new technology that’s helping people who are blind or have low vision stay mobile, safe, and connected. From AI tools to changes in how cities are designed — the future is exciting.
I also visited a group called Vision Ireland. I learnt how they support people to play sport, use public transport, access Deafblind services, and stay connected through smart technology. There’s lots we can learn from each other, and I’m excited about the possibilities.
These trips reminded me that people around the world share the same goals — to live well, be independent, and do the things they love. That’s what we’re here for.
Ngā mihi,
Andrea
Thumbs up
Join the Telefriend Team – Peer Support for the Blind Low Vision NZ Community. Apply by 20 May!
Telefriend is a peer support service connecting Blind Low Vision NZ members for friendly, meaningful conversations. Run by trained volunteers who also have lived experience of vision loss, Telefriend offers social connection and support over the phone.
The service consists of receiving calls on the Telefriend number 0800 100 051, available weekdays 1-4pm, and making regular care calls to members who are isolated and have difficulty calling in.
Now, we’re expanding! We’re looking for new Telefriend volunteers in Auckland and Christchurch to join our Wellington-based team. As a volunteer, you’ll:
- Make weekly care calls to members.
- Take part in a roster to manage 0800 calls.
- Provide a warm, understanding space for people to share their experiences.
Telefriend team members come from diverse backgrounds and bring their personal experiences with vision loss to the role. As a team member, you will be in a positive emotional space with your own journey and ready to contribute. You will be non-judgmental, supportive, understanding, and have a passion for helping others.
If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you! Volunteers must be based in Auckland or Christchurch and be able to attend monthly, in-person meetings.
Interested? Email Jenni jwillson@blindlowvision.org.nz with a bit about yourself and why you’d be a great fit. The application deadline is 20 May.
Shortlisted applicants will go through a vetting process, including a police check, followed by peer support training.
Together, let’s build a stronger, more connected community!
AFS Supports Bay Bus with Large Print Schedules
At Blind Low Vision NZ, we’re proud of the work our Accessible Formats Service (AFS) team does to improve accessibility for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. Their latest collaboration with Bay Bus is a great example of this impact.
Bay Bus, a well-known transport provider, reached out to us for help in making their bus schedules more accessible for passengers with low vision. Our AFS team provided expert guidance on creating large print timetables that are clear and easy to read. This included selecting the best font size, style, contrast, and layout to ensure the schedules are easy to navigate and free from clutter. Feedback from testing was also used to refine the schedules before they were released.
As a result, Bay Bus is now rolling out large print schedules across their network, ensuring greater accessibility for passengers with low vision. Read more about Accessible Travel options via the Bay Bus website.
This collaboration not only highlights our role in improving accessibility but also reinforces our commitment to advocating for an inclusive Aotearoa New Zealand. It reflects our vision for the future:
“We aspire to create an Aotearoa New Zealand that is inclusive for all those with blindness, deaf-blindness, or sight loss.”
A huge thank you to our AFS team for leading the way in improving accessibility where it matters most!
If you know of any businesses or organisations that would benefit from accessible materials, encourage them to get in touch with our AFS team at afprequests@blindlowvision.org.nz or call 0800 24 33 33.
Audio Description is a Game Changer for Live Sports!
Do you enjoy sports but sometimes feel left out when attending live games?
“The referee blows the whistle, and Alex looks confused, saying, ‘What did I do?’ Number 3 is about to take the throw-in. The ball is thrown to the left, number 10 picks it up and passes it back towards the centre, about 15 metres away. Number 3 is running towards the longer shadow on the field, which now stretches further across the left side. The ball is now back with Thomas again. There’s still some pressure on him, but he’s managing it well, holding onto the ball. He kicks it forward, about 20 metres from the halfway line.”
This is a sneak peek into the live audio description experience for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision! It’s not just about hearing the game—it’s about truly experiencing it and staying fully in the moment, immersed in the action, just like the rest of the crowd.
While traditional commentary often focuses on scores and key plays, it sometimes misses the small but important details. Audio description fills in those gaps, helping listeners visualise the game and stay connected to every moment.
At Blind Low Vision NZ, we are committed to creating an accessible community where our members can live the life they choose, and sport is no exception. Thanks to a collaboration between Jani King, Auckland FC, and Audio Described Aotearoa, a small group of members had the chance to attend the first-ever audio-described football match on 5 April 2025 at Go Media Stadium, where Auckland FC played against Sydney Wanderers. The atmosphere was electric, with the stadium buzzing with cheers, claps, and excitement.
The audio description, provided by Audio Described Aotearoa, enabled attendees to closely follow the game through a lightweight, single-ear headset. This allowed them to hear the action clearly while still experiencing the stadium atmosphere with the other ear.
Alix also said, “Accessibility isn’t just about physical spaces; it’s about being able to experience activities on the same level as everyone else. Live audio description made that possible.”
We look forward to seeing more accessible sports events like this, where everyone, regardless of their vision, can fully engage in the action and feel the excitement of the game together!
Stay tuned for our upcoming sport and leisure newsletters, or contact our Sport and Leisure team on 0800 24 33 33 or email sportandleisure@blindlowvision.org.nz if you have any questions about accessible events or activities that you might be interested in!
The Power of Sport and Leisure in Your Life
Sport and Leisure are vital in our lives, covering many aspects of wellness, including physical, emotional and social wellbeing. At Blind Low Vision NZ, we support New Zealanders who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision to enjoy an active and inclusive life. Our specialists support individuals and partner organisations to enable sustainable activities in their communities, connect clients to support groups, and help them access mainstream sport and leisure activities. We also build relationships with community providers and advocate for more inclusive activities for our clients.
Two clients recently joined Blind Tennis with assistance from our Sport and Leisure team. They were supported throughout their journey to the session, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. One of the clients, Russell K, shared his experience.
“The Blind Tennis Group is where I feel like I belong. The people are incredible – not just Greg and Sephton, but the volunteers are amazing too. From the very first time I met them, they didn’t feel like strangers at all. They’re so warm, kind, and motivating. They’ve become like family, pushing me to achieve more than I ever thought possible. We are all different and get coached depending on our vision and adaptive needs, but together we’re just playing tennis. Playing tennis has given me a new purpose to work towards in the gym, and I look forward to attending the group session every second week. I feel like great things are happening to me now and I am truly grateful to be a part of this.”
Curious about how Blind Tennis works?
You can watch the video of Blind Tennis in Auckland on YouTube. The sessions are led by coach Greg Lim – an ASB Good as Gold recipient – with support from a team of friendly volunteers. They make sure people who are blind or have low vision can enjoy the game in a way that works for them.
If you’re looking to be more active, contact your local Blind Low Vision NZ office on 0800 24 33 33 or email sportandleisure@blindlowvision.org.nz.
Easter Fun for All: Henderson Fund Easter Party in Wellington
For our Blind Low Vision children and families, we hosted the Easter Party on 5th April at our BLVNZ Wellington office.
We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this event so memorable, and a special thanks to the Henderson Trust for their generous support. We had a fantastic turnout, with 10 families participating in a day of fun and connection.
The Easter Bunny (Jeremy Brown, our Sports and Leisure Coordinator) made a surprise appearance, and everyone enjoyed an Easter egg hunt, sensory activities, and plenty of chocolate! A big thank you to our Wellington team for their efforts, and a warm welcome to our two new volunteers who helped make the day a success.
We’re incredibly grateful for everyone’s enthusiasm and support.
Congratulations to all involved for creating such a wonderful experience! We can’t wait for the next one!
To know more about all Support Grants available to clients and members of Blind Low Vision NZ, visit the Blind Low Vision NZ website’s Support Grants page or call 0800 24 33 33.
Achilles Auckland
On the 6th April the Achilles Auckland group invited Chelsea, Community Engagement and Project Lead from Blind Sport NZ and Kelly, Sports and Leisure Advisor Northland/Auckland from Blind Low Vision NZ to join them in Parnell for one of their regular Sunday sessions – it was brilliant, so good for the body and soul! Positive, welcoming, and great chats while getting out in the fresh air, followed by a coffee. Their training sessions and meet ups are planned well in advance and they are welcome people of ALL fitness levels, from walking, to guiding for ultra marathons! If you would like to give it a go, visit Achilles New Zealand website and look for the nearest location to you!
Client story – Finding my way with Shine by my side
Eight years ago, Gilbert started noticing something was wrong with his sight. “My friend was standing right in front of me, but I didn’t see him. I thought he was a stranger and pushed him out of the way.”
Ask Me Anything
Got a question? Ask Away!
This is your monthly opportunity to send questions or share your thoughts with our Chief Executive, Andrea Midgen, ELT, and the RNZFB Board (blindlowvision.org.nz).
Whether it’s about the services we provide, the direction of the organisation, or ideas for the future, we want to hear from you. Your voice helps us grow and improve.
Submit your question anonymously or include your details for a direct response. It’s quick and easy! Access the Ask Me Anything form via Microsoft Forms. Alternatively, you can call our friendly Contact Centre team on 0800 24 33 33 to submit your question.
Noticeboard
Work Ready: CV Writing Webinar – Tuesday 13 May at 10.00am
People who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision know that job hunting can feel like a big task. And writing a CV can be one of the hardest parts. How do you stand out from the crowd without sounding overconfident? And how do you strike the right balance between honesty and impact?
In this one-hour Zoom session, Sarah Mitchell, Head of Employment and Youth Pathways, is joined by a guest from our People and Performance Team. They’ll break down the CV writing process in a friendly and relaxed way.
This is for anyone who wants to create a strong, clear CV—whether you’re writing your first one or updating an old one.
You’ll learn:
- Why your personal statement matters
- How to showcase your strengths authentically
- When (and how) to talk about your disability
- Tips for tailoring your CV to specific roles
- What employers and recruiters really want to see
- What to include—and what to leave out
This is part of Blind Low Vision NZ’s Work Ready Webinar series—supporting clients to grow their skills and confidence on their employment journey.
Join us on Tuesday 13 May at 10am and take the next step in building a strong and confident CV.
Access the Work Ready Webinar via the Zoom link.
If you have any questions, please call us on 0800 24 33 33 or email Sarah at SMitchell@blindlowvision.org.nz.
Work Ready Webinar Recordings and Resources
Explore a series of standout webinars covering topics from cutting-edge accessible technology to vital support funds. Listen to previous Work Ready Webinar Recordings at your leisure on the Blind Low Vision NZ website.
Kids Camp 2025
We’re excited to let you know that this year’s Kids Camp will take place during the September school holidays! We’ll be heading to the fantastic Blue Mountain Adventure Centre in the heart of the Central North Island, where plenty of fun and adventure await.
We are also increasing the age range to 8–16 yrs, with a maximum number of 20 participants, so that more of our younger members can experience the enjoyment, camaraderie, and challenges that camp offers.
If you missed it, below is a camp report from one of last year’s participants.
Nervous at first, our storyteller braved kayaking adventures, eerie late-night tales, and an exhilarating cave dive. Download Laura’s story as a Word Document to discover what made this camp truly unforgettable.
We are now seeking expressions of interest for participants (please include participant name, address and date of birth) and ask that you send them to sportandleisure@blindlowvision.org.nz.
We will then send out the registration forms for completion.
Please note that we do not guarantee acceptance on the camp.
Participants will need to be reasonably independent (mobility, toileting etc.) as one-to-one support is not available.
The cost for the camp is $100 per participant plus travel. For South Island participants, we will fly you from your nearest major airport to the North Island and arrange transport from there to the venue.
Please note that there will be a number of Blind Low Vision NZ staff in attendance at the camp to support the facilitators and our young members.
The Napier Office is Relocating!
We’re thrilled to announce that our Napier office will be moving to a new location at 77 Raffles Street at the beginning of June!
Our new space is currently undergoing upgrades to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for both our staff and clients.
Stay tuned for further updates as we get closer. We can’t wait to see you at our new location!
Office Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us on 06 835 3777 or 0800 24 33 33.
See you soon at 77 Raffles Street, Napier South, Napier 4110!
1 Million Names in Braille – Country of the Month: Samoa
Julie Woods, known as That Blind Lady, and her team are on a mission to write 1 million names in Braille. This April, the 1 Million Names in Braille project is focusing on Samoa as the country of the month. If you know someone in Samoa who would love to receive their name in Braille for free, you can email their name and address to julie@thatblindwoman.co.nz.
So far, 36,837 names have been written in Braille, reaching 49 countries worldwide.
Let’s help spread the word and share the power of Braille!
If you have any questions or need more information, contact Julie Woods at 021 913 513.
MSD Training and Support Funds Programme
The Ministry of Social Development offers Support Funds to help people with disabilities or health conditions get either Job Support or Training Support, depending on what you need help with. Support Funds can help with the additional costs incurred as a direct consequence of disability or health condition, when undertaking the same employment or training as a person without a disability or health condition.
There are two types of Support Funds:
- Job Support helps meet disability costs when in employment or self-employment.
- Training Support helps meet disability costs when participating in work related training, or tertiary education.
To be eligible for Support Funds, you must meet MSD’s eligibility criteria (outlined on the Support Funds web page and application forms linked below), plus have a disability or health condition that has lasted or is likely to last longer than six months.
To apply for Support Funds, you need to complete either a Training Support Application (PDF) or Job Support Application (PDF) and send it, with supporting documentation to Support_Funds@msd.govt.nz. If the PDF forms are troublesome to fill out on your own, please call the MSD Job and Training Support Fund number 0800 551 001 so they can help you out.
Campaigns
Seeing Streets Differently campaign launch at Government House, Wellington
On Friday 14 March, Blind Low Vision NZ hosted a special campaign launch, Seeing Streets Differently, at Government House in Wellington. The evening brought together 85 guests, including Their Excellencies, The Right Honourable Dame Cindy Kiro and Dr Richard Davies hosting us at Government House to highlight the experiences of people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision and to advocate for a more inclusive Aotearoa New Zealand.
The event featured a panel discussion moderated by our Head of Policy and Advocacy, Jelena Zidov, with contributions from client and General Manager Community and Inclusion Dan Shepherd, and guide dog handler, Sue Emirali. The discussion drew on real-life experiences to highlight accessibility challenges, the importance of inclusive urban design, and the ways we can all help create a world that is easier to navigate for everyone.
Matt MacDougall, Head of Philanthropy, opened the evening with a karakia, followed by opening remarks from Her Excellency, The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO, Governor-General of New Zealand. You can read Dame Cindy’s speech on the Governor-General website.
Attendees then enjoyed a thought-provoking panel session and a hands-on demonstration led by Blind Low Vision NZ staff. The demonstration, led by Service Team Manager Central Kate Kerr and Rehabilitation Instructor Spencer Townsend showcased some of the key tools and strategies people use to navigate public spaces safely and independently.
Thanks to our videographer, Ram Kaza, for capturing the event so beautifully with a YouTube video of Seeing Streets Differently campaign launch at Government House, Wellington. This highlights video includes action shots of RNZFB Board Directors and other guests being greeted on arrival and guided to their seats, Dame Cindy’s opening remarks, the panel discussion, the guiding demonstration and guests happily mingling.
Guests had the opportunity to mix and mingle over refreshments, engaging with our team and experiencing first-hand the impact of our advocacy and support services. The evening was supported by two tactile NZSL interpreters, and Jacqui Iseli, Deafblind Coordinator who provided social haptics to ensure full accessibility for deafblind guests. Live music added to the atmosphere. You can view photos on the Governor-General’s website.
A huge thank you to the team at Government House for their hospitality.
Pawgust Fundraising Challenge
PAWGUST is back this August, and we’d love for you to be part of it. Whether you walk, move, or simply spread the word, every bit of support helps make a big difference for handlers and their guide dogs.
So, how does PAWGUST work? It’s simple! Throughout August, participants like you dedicate themselves to walking their dogs (or borrowing a willing canine companion!) and getting sponsored for the kilometres they clock. You set your own goals, track your progress, and rally your networks to support your furry (or borrowed furry) friend’s journey. No dog? No drama! You can still take part solo – it’s all about the steps and the support. All the funds raised go directly towards training and supporting the work we do at Blind Low Vision NZ, including Guide Dog Services.
Think of fun ways you can get involved – walk your own furry friend, organise group walks with colleagues, get creative with fundraising challenges, or simply spread the word and encourage others to sponsor you. It all counts.
You can find out more by visiting the PAWGUST website.
If you have any other questions, comments, or queries, please reach out to fundraise@blindlowvision.org.nz.
Upcoming events
Hamilton: Audio described concert in Hamilton – 4 May
Enjoy a magical afternoon of music, stories, and adventure with the Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra. This audio described concert features classics from Romeo and Juliet to Star Wars, plus a touch tour before the show.
When: Sunday, 4 May: 1:30pm touch tour; 2:30pm audio described show.
Where: Concert Chamber, Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, Gate 1 University of Waikato, Knighton Road, Hamilton 3216.
Run time: 1 hour, 35 minutes, including a 20-minute interval.
Tickets: Adult $32, Senior $27, Student with ID $5, Child under 18 years free.
Blind and low vision patrons can bring a companion for free.
To book, contact Catherine on 021 129 7346 or email artistic@orchestras.org.nz.
Christchurch: Explore architecture through sound and story
Open Christchurch is back from 2–4 May 2025, giving people the chance to step inside some of the city’s most iconic buildings.
This year, two special events have been designed with blind and low vision people in mind. This audio described tours invite you to explore the design and stories behind:
Te Ora Hou Ōtautahi – a kaupapa Māori youth organisation brought to life through values-led design
When: Saturday, 3 May: 12 noon to 1pm.
Where: Te Ora Hou, 77 Windermere Road, Papanui, Christchurch 8053.
The Court Theatre – a behind-the-scenes look at Christchurch’s newest cultural space.
When: Sunday, 4 May: 2pm to 3pm.
Where: The Court Theatre, 748 Colombo Street, Christchurch Central City, 8011.
Both events are free, but bookings are essential.
To book or ask a question, email openchch@teputahi.org.nz or call 021 873 694 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. You can also leave a message any time – the team will call you back.
NZ Sign Language Week 5-11 May 2025
New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is one of our three official languages. It’s the first language of many Deaf New Zealanders—and a key part of who they are. NZSL Week is a time to celebrate Deaf culture, learn something new, and help build a more inclusive Aotearoa.
This year’s theme is An Aotearoa Where Anyone Can Sign Anywhere. You can join in by attending a local event, trying a free NZSL class, or simply learning a few signs online.
Blind Low Vision NZ is proud to support people who are deafblind through personalised services like communication support, mobility training, and social connection. We also advocate for access, inclusion, and the rights of our deafblind community.
Know someone who might need support? They can call us on 0800 24 33 33 or email info@blindlowvision.org.nz.
Global Accessibility Awareness Day 15 May 2025
Going online should be simple for everyone. But for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision, many websites and apps still create barriers.
Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) is a chance to speak up about this. It’s a reminder that digital spaces must be designed with access in mind.
When websites, forms, and apps are built to be accessible, more people can take part—at work, in study, and in everyday life.
Digital accessibility isn’t a bonus. It’s a right. Everyone deserves to use the same services, get the same information, and be part of the same conversations—without barriers.
Learn how Blind Low Vision NZ advocates for an accessible Aotearoa.
Community Bulletin
Auckland: 2025 Parnell, Homai Blind Get Together at Weymouth Cossie Club
Message from one of our members, Haywood Ahmu: “I am organising the Blind Reunion Gathering, which has been scheduled for 31 October and 1 November 2025 at the Weymouth Cosmopolitan Club, 151 Sykes Road, Manurewa.
I’m sharing the dates early to give everyone time to save for this event, which may be our last chance to come together across both generations—Parnell and Homai. As I am still in the planning stages, I will provide updates on the reunion through all communication channels, including TellMe and TIS.
For updates via the Aotearoa Community Feedback Line, you can access the information by selecting 5 – 4 – 2 from the main menu. I will share progress updates each month regarding the reunion.”
Where: Weymouth Cossie Club (clubweymouth.co.nz).
Address: 151 Sykes Road Manurewa, Auckland 2103.
Date: 31 October and 1 November 2025.
To know more, call Haywood on 027 452 2344 or email mymymyassis99@gmail.com.
South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment (SPEVI) Membership Opportunity
Are you passionate about supporting blind and low vision education in Aotearoa and the wider South Pacific? SPEVI (South Pacific Educators in Vision Impairment) is a vibrant network working to make a difference, and you’re warmly invited to be a part of it.
Membership is open to anyone who is interested, including school staff, teacher aides, support workers, parents, whānau, therapists, tech specialists, and students. If you care about inclusive education, there’s a place for you!
Annual memberships are affordable, starting from just $10. Pasifika membership is free for those living outside New Zealand and Australia.
To learn more, visit spevi.net or check out the SPEVI Facebook page.
Questions?
Email spevinz@gmail.com – please include your phone number if you’d like to chat with someone from the SPEVI NZ team.
Unlocking Accessibility: Discover the Global Voice Podcast!
The World Blind Union has launched an exciting new podcast, Global Voice. The first episode, released on 1 April, is part of an 8-episode series exploring Accessibility Go and its 7 Commitments. Each episode focuses on one of these key commitments to accessibility, with a new episode released every two weeks.
Accessibility Go is a joint effort by the World Blind Union and CBM Global, created to move accessibility beyond legal compliance and into everyday practise. It offers a clear, three-step process to assess organisations’ current situations, set priorities, take action, and reflect on what’s possible. The guide uses plain language and has been translated into multiple languages with an aim is to be useful for everyone—from local councils to businesses and community groups.
Accessibility Go’s seven commitments cover everything from inclusive workplaces and accessible communication to inclusive events and non-discriminatory services. Each podcast episode breaks down what these commitments really mean, with guidance to support organisations at any stage of their accessibility journey.
Listen to the full Global Voice podcast episodes via Buzzsprout.
Environment Canterbury Annual Plan Consultation 2025-26
Environment Canterbury has shared their Annual Plan for 2025–26. The plan outlines the key priorities, goals, and services they’ll focus on in the year ahead.
Download the Environment Canterbury Annual Plan Consultation document in large print.
If you have any questions or need assistance, call their advisory team on 0800 324 636 between 8am and 5pm (except on public holidays).
200 Years of Braille: Still Modern, Still Essential – Featured in The Educator January Issue
When life feels uncertain, hope can be a guiding light. It gives us strength to move forward and the courage to dream. For 200 years, Braille has been more than just a way to read and write. It’s a symbol of possibility and hope, a tool for independence, a key to knowledge, and a bridge that connects us all. While technology has evolved, Braille still remains essential. It is a powerful tool for literacy and equal access to information.
The latest issue of The Educator’s Braille Literacy explores Braille’s journey and its lasting impact. Experts reflect on its evolution: Martine Abel-Williamson highlights how Braille remains modern, beautiful, and practical. Dr. Praveena Sukhraj-Ely discusses the global significance of World Braille Day, and Dr. Natalie Martiniello examines 200 years of innovation from the International Council on English Braille. The January 2025 issue of The Educator is available on the ICEVI website. You can read the full issue and discover how Braille has shaped countless journeys and continues to make an impact in education, employment, and beyond.
The Blind History Lady: A Salesman No Matter What
The Blind History Lady shares the inspiring and often surprising stories of blind people throughout history.
For over three decades, Peggy Chong, a US-based historian, has been collecting stories, articles, books, and more about the lives of blind individuals. Over the past ten years, she has carefully analysed and re-researched these stories, uncovering rich, often forgotten histories. These stories are eye-opening and inspiring for everyone, revealing the incredible impact people who have low or no vision have had in shaping the world around them without most people ever realising it.
Peggy introduces you to the story – A Salesman No Matter What (Word doc). A story of resilience and resourcefulness, and a reminder that disability does not define a person’s potential, discover how creativity and determination can overcome social barriers. This tale describes how blind people in 1900s America followed their passion, created authentic connections with people around them, and realised their own entrepreneurial spirit.
To learn more about Peggy’s work or to sign up for her email list, contact her at theblindhistorylady@gmail.com.
Tune into this week’s accessible TV programmes
How to access Audio Descriptions: In general, Audio Description (AD) can be switched on or off by pressing the AD button on a TV Remote Control. However, some TVs have a different label on the remote button, and others require AD to be switched on or off via the menu.
Listings of audio described programmes for this week on the Able website.
Surveys and Research
Blind Low Vision NZ shares research relevant to the blind and low vision community for information only. We are not involved in or responsible for the research. For more details or to decide whether to participate, please contact the relevant organisation.
Have your say on air travel – Survey closes 25 April
Air New Zealand, in partnership with Access Advisors, the NZ Disability Employers’ Network, and Jones Consultancy, is working to make air travel more accessible and inclusive for everyone. To better understand the needs of people who may face accessibility challenges, they have launched a survey.
If you have flown with Air New Zealand in the last 12 months and have any access needs, your feedback is invaluable. This is your chance to help improve the flying experience and shape future services.
The survey is open until 25 April 2025, and participants can enter a draw for a chance to win one of 20 prizes of $100 in Air New Zealand Airpoints.
Take the Air NZ Accessible Air Travel survey via Research.net.
Any questions about this survey, please email research@accessadvisors.nz or call 0800 300 099 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 2 pm).
Disabled Person-Led Monitoring of the UNCRPD
The Donald Beasley Institute is leading a six-year research project that monitors how well New Zealand is meeting its commitments under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). This research is fully led by disabled people and centres their lived experiences.
The latest phase (2022–2024), My Experiences, My Rights: Supports and Services, explores how well current supports and services uphold the rights of disabled people in Aotearoa. Researchers spoke with community leaders, ran focus groups, and gathered insights through a nationwide survey.
This work reflects major changes in the disability sector, including the launch of Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People. Findings will be shared across five themed reports, released throughout 2025.
To follow the project or take part in future research, visit the Donald Beasley Institute website or phone 03 479 2162.
Test Action Audio – Helping Shape Accessible Sports
Action Audio is a new way for people who are blind or have low vision to experience live sports through sound. This latest prototype translates key moments of basketball into dynamic audio cues, allowing fans to follow the game in real-time.
How to participate:
- Listen to the 5-minute basketball clip with Action Audio.
- Complete the Action Audio Survey via Google Forms.
- Help us improve the experience for future sports fans!
Take part of this survey by the end of May and help shape the future of sport for everyone!
If you have any questions or prefer to connect directly, please contact Tim on 027 2442 356 or email at contact@action-audio.com.
News from the Royal New Zealand Foundation of The Blind (RNZFB) Board
RNZFB Board of Directors Meeting
The next RNZFB Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled for Saturday 3 May 2025 in Whangārei. This meeting will be held at the BLVNZ Whangārei office. If you would like to attend this meeting as an observer, please contact the Board Secretary boardsecretary@blindlowvision.org.nz or phone the BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.
- In accordance with the RNZFB Constitution, members and members of the public are welcome to observe at RNZFB Board Meetings in person, via teleconference or online, with the permission of the Chair.
The draft meeting minutes of the 1 March 2025 full Board meeting are available. If you require a copy of any of these minutes, please email the Board Secretary boardsecretary@blindlowvision.org.nz or phone the BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33. The Board meeting minutes are also available on the telephone information Service menu 3, 1, 3.
Meet and Greet Event
The next RNZFB Board Meet and Greet event is set to take place in Whangārei on Friday 2 May from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at Whangārei Central Library, May Bain Room, 5 Rust Avenue, Whangārei, where you will be introduced to the Board Members of the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind and find out more about the Board’s key priorities. You will also have an opportunity to raise any concerns or ask any questions you may have. And you will get to meet BLVNZ’s Chief Executive Andrea Midgen. If you would like to attend, please email the Board Secretary boardsecretary@blindlowvision.org.nz or phone the BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.
Chair’s Newsletter
The latest Chair’s newsletter is now available, with a lot more detail on Board decisions and activities from our most recent meetings. You can check it out at the BLVNZ Governance webpage, and on the Telephone Information Service at option 3, 1, 1.
RNZFB Board Elections 2025
Key dates to pencil in your diaries:
- 29 August – Call for nominations to stand as a Director.
- 26 September – Last day for nominations.
- 17 October – Voting packs circulated.
- 14 November – Last day to vote.
If you would like more information about Board elections, the Constitution or the voting process or timeline, please contact the Returning Officer boardsecretary@blindlowvision.org.nz or phone the BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.
Mandatory policies
The Board thanks everyone who contacted us with your feedback on the mandatory policies we are currently reviewing. We’re now considering your comments and in due course we will report back to you on our final decisions on these policies.
Clive Lansink
RNZFB Board Chair
In the News
When tech meets lived experience
What does true accessibility look like in a digital world? David Allen, General Manager of Cumulo9, had a kōrero with our very own Dan Shepherd, who shared insights grounded in lived experience. From the barriers that glare can cause, to the promise of tech that gives people more choice – this is a timely reminder that inclusion starts with listening. Read the full LinkedIn post.
Simulation Glasses Reveal Accessibility Barriers at Government House.
Read about the Ministers Experience of Vision Loss Simulation at Government House Event via The Post.
Blind Low Vision NZ’s guide dogs transform lives in Northland.
Read the NZ Herald article about how Blind Low Vision NZ’s guide dogs are making a difference.
The Two Faces of Smart Homes for Disability.
The Power of Sport and Leisure in Your Life.
Blind Low Vision NZ withdraws from Southern Vision Bus Program.
The dog that changed Laura’s life.
Job opportunities at Blind Low Vision NZ
The latest job opportunities at Blind Low Vision NZ are available on TIS m346 and on our Careers website.
Ka kite anō
Please let us know what you think of Kōrero. We welcome suggestions for what you would like us to include and any tips or stories you would like to share with the community. Get in touch on 0800 24 33 33 or via communications@blindlowvision.org.nz.
Did you know that you can request Kōrero in Braille? Call our contact centre on 0800 24 33 33 if you would like to receive Kōrero in this format.