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 August 2025 Korero or call our Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33 if you would like to receive Kōrero in Braille.

Tell me about it

This is your space to share bite-sized learnings from your experiences as someone who is blind, deafblind, or has low vision. Maybe you’ve got a new gadget you’re loving, or you’re an Excel expert with great tips on accessibility features. Whatever it is, your knowledge could help someone else.

Whether it’s a tech trick, a daily living hack, or anything in between, we want to hear from you! Your insights could make a big difference to others in the community.

If you’d like to submit an idea, please email communications@blindlowvision.org.nz.

Finding your feet with change

In this month’s reflection, Trevor shared what it was like facing the reality of vision loss over many years and how some of the hardest shifts weren’t about the eyes, but about identity and independence.

He spoke honestly about resisting cane training at first, not because it wasn’t helpful, but because it felt like giving in. “The thought of trundling around behind a white stick didn’t do much for my vanity,” he wrote, “but I soon realised how important it was.” With patience from others and perseverance on his part, that cane became a vital tool for freedom, not a symbol of loss.

He also touched on what many of you have told us before: that learning to accept help, and asking for it, can feel even harder than the physical changes. It’s a journey full of emotion, not just for you, but for your whānau and friends too.

His story reminds us that there’s no set way to ‘do’ vision loss. No perfect response. No single timeline. What matters is finding what works for you and knowing there’s no shame in taking your time. You’re not behind. You’re growing.

Thumbs Up

Consultation on refreshed Disability Strategy

The Government is refreshing the New Zealand Disability Strategy, and now is the time to share your voice.

The NZ Disability Strategy sets out the vision and goals that guide how government agencies support disabled people across areas like education, employment, health, housing and justice. The current 10-year strategy ends in 2026, and the refreshed version will cover 2026 to 2030.

Minister for Disability Issues, Hon Louise Upston, announced via the Beehive website that the purpose of the strategy is to improve lives and uphold rights. Disabled people still face many barriers in areas such as employment and housing. For example, three-quarters of unemployed disabled people want to work, but often lack opportunities. The refreshed strategy aims to change this by shaping policies and actions that allow disabled people to thrive, lead and make decisions about their own lives.

The Ministry of Disabled People Whaikaha has already spoken with many disabled people and organisations, and now the public consultation is open to everyone.

You can have your say online in accessible formats, or by joining an in-person or online meeting.

Consultation closes on 28 September 2025. Visit the following link on the Whaikaha website to know more:

Refresh of the New Zealand Disability Strategy | Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People
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Funding support to help you reach your goals

If you or someone you know has a goal to get into work or study but needs a little extra help to get started, there are some great funding options available.

The Pearson Fund could help brighten up your Winter

Even small tools like magnifiers or better lighting can make a big difference. If cost is a concern, the Pearson Fund may be able to help. The good news is that we’ve added a new Pearson code Blind Low Vision NZ clients can use at The Vision Store checkout.

Now, using the code 50PEARSON will get you 50% off your basket total to $500.

The code PEARSON will still give you a standard 25% off all purchases over $500.

The Pearson Fund is more than just a discount code. It also offers funding to help with equipment costs. Learn more about the Pearson Fund and how to apply. If you have any questions, please call our Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.

Oppenheim Tertiary Fund applications open soon

Thinking about study next year? The Oppenheim Tertiary Education Trust Fund can help cover course fees for recognised degrees and vocational training.

Whether you’re just finishing school or ready for your next step, it’s worth checking your eligibility.

Applications open 1 September. Start preparing your documents now so you’re ready to apply.

Learn more about the Oppenheim Fund on our website.

Got a big idea that could help you get into work?

The Workbridge Foundation has launched a new grant called Hand Up, Not Hand Out. It’s for disabled people who have a clear idea that would support their journey toward employment but need a bit of funding to get started.

This could be anything from training, equipment, setting up a small business, or something unique to your needs. If you’ve got a plan that could help you take that next step toward work, this grant might be for you.

You don’t need to be working with Workbridge to apply. Applications are open now.

Find out more and apply via the Workbridge Foundation website.

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.

What’s New in Adaptive Technology?

By Israel Coello, Head of Innovation and Insights, Blind Low Vision NZ

In March, I travelled to California for the CSUN Assistive Technology Conference – one of the world’s biggest events focused on adaptive tech. It’s where innovators, users, and organisations like ours come together to explore what’s next in accessibility.

Here are some of the standout trends, tools, and takeaways from CSUN 2025.

AI-powered tools took centre stage, from navigation aids that adapt in real time to hands-free guidance apps like Navis. These tools prioritise autonomy and reflect how AI is reshaping mobility for blind and low vision users. Still, presenters reminded us: AI must be used wisely, with humans firmly in control.

The WeWALK Smart Cane 2 is a white cane that tracks your walking style (pitch, swipe width, etc.) and can offer feedback to an instructor remotely. In some areas, it also provides real-time public transport and navigation info through the user’s phone. We’re actively staying in the loop with like-minded overseas partners as they test this tech, so we can assess its fit for New Zealand clients too.

There was also buzz around Glidance, an AI-powered mobility aid designed to support independent travel through obstacle avoidance and environmental awareness. Still in the early stages of development, the prototype hints at how AI may complement traditional mobility tools in the future.

Braille lovers, take note: Paige Connect transforms a standard Perkins Brailler into a Bluetooth-enabled device that transmits Braille input to a connected device. It’s about bringing modern tech into traditionally low-tech spaces, helping bridge the gap between tactile literacy and digital learning.

Another demo showed SignGlasses, wearable glasses offering live captioning and even sign language interpretation (for now in American Sign Language only). The captioning could be a game-changer for some deafblind clients once we explore contrast and font size customisation options. Beyond the tech, CSUN was also about people. We connected with international experts whose support could lead to new training, webinars, and access to emerging tools. CSUN 2025 gave us a glimpse of what’s next: smarter tools, global collaboration, and a shared push for more inclusive tech.

These tools aren’t mainstream yet, but that’s what makes them exciting. We’re staying connected, asking the right questions, and bringing the best of what we find back home. As we roll out these ideas and technologies, we’ll keep you informed and involved.

Stay tuned: when the next Adaptive Tech webinar invite comes through, we’d love to see you there. Until then, stay curious! The future of accessibility is bright.

Your space, your voice – be part of Wellington’s new youth group

The Wellington office has launched a new Youth Group this month for clients and members aged 13 to 30 in the Wellington region. This group offers a safe, inclusive space where young people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision can connect, share experiences, and make friends.

The first discussion session was held on 23 August. The next meet-up will be:

Date: Saturday 27 September.
Time: 10am to 11am.
Location: Blind Low Vision NZ Wellington Office, 121 Adelaide Road, Newtown.

Join us for a fun, accessible space to meet new people, share your stories, and help shape the future of this group.

Please RSVP by call or text Jeremy by 22 September on 022 014 7094. Transport options may be available.

Create your lasting legacy with Safewill — free from 1 to 22 September 2025

Having a Will means your wishes are followed and helps avoid stress or confusion for your loved ones when the time comes. Without a Will, the court may decide who gets what, even your pets.

This September, Blind Low Vision NZ has partnered with Safewill to offer a free online Will service to clients and their families aged 18 or over. We chose Safewill because it is the most accessible online Will platform we’ve found, tested by our staff using the JAWS screen reader.

If you need help, Safewill offers a live chat box for typing questions, and you can call them on 0061 1800 10 33 10 during business hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Sydney time). Please note, standard calling fees apply.

Key details:

• Free from 1 to 22 September 2025.

• Simple and secure: Safewill is one of New Zealand’s highest-rated Will platforms.

• Reviewed by legal experts.

• Update your Will anytime.

• Print and sign at home.

While your loved ones come first, please consider leaving a gift to Blind Low Vision NZ in your Will. Even 1% of your estate can make a big difference.

Visit the Safewill website to get started. For more information, contact Jo Eve, Relationships Manager Legacies, at legacies@blindlowvision.org.nz or call 022 015 9216.

Telefriend: Here to Support You

Telefriend offers empathetic, non-judgmental, and confidential peer support for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision, as well as their caregivers, family, and friends. Whether you need guidance or just want a friendly chat, we’re here to help.

Call us at 0800 100 051, from 1 pm to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. If you call outside these hours, leave a message—we will return your call. Connect with a Telefriend today by dialling 0800 100 051.

Work Ready Webinar: MSD Support and Benefits — Tuesday 9 September, 10 am

Receiving a Supported Living Payment, or thinking about applying? Join our next Work Ready Webinar to learn more about MSD’s disability support options and how to access them with confidence.

We’ll be joined by a representative from the MSD Health and Disability team, who will guide us through:

• The role of MSD Health Advisors.

• Eligibility criteria for the Supported Living Payment.

• The application and review process.

• Blind Person’s Benefit exemptions.

There will also be time for general questions at the end of the session. While we won’t be able to address individual cases during the webinar, we’ll share how you can follow up afterwards.

When: Tuesday, 9 September 2025
Time: 10am–11am
Where: Join our live work ready webinar on Zoom – 9 September

Work Ready Webinar Recordings & Resources

Explore a series of standout webinars covering topics from cutting-edge accessible technology to vital support funds. Listen to Work Ready Webinar Recordings at your leisure on the Blind Low Vision NZ website.

Community Bulletin

Join Retina NZ’s AGM in Wellington

Retina NZ’s 2025 Annual General Meeting will be held on Saturday 6 September, 10 am – 4 pm, at the Blind Low Vision NZ offices, 121 Adelaide Road, Wellington.

Enjoy a catered lunch, connect with others, and hear from guest speakers including Prof. Jean Bennett on vision restoration science, Dr Alix Coysh with the latest research, Blind Low Vision NZ Board members Clive Lansink and Richard Patete, and more.

The day will also feature a vote on a new Constitution, committee nominations, a Ray-Ban glasses demonstration, and a friendly game of indoor bowls.

RSVP to admin@retina.org.nz or call 0800 569 849. Visit the Retina NZ website for more details.

Electoral roll webinar and election info

Election season is back! We recently ran a webinar about enrolling on the electoral roll and the upcoming Auckland Council elections. You can watch the video and read the transcript on our website by scrolling down to the Know Your Rights Webinar Series section. You can also watch the Electoral roll webinar directly on YouTube.

The audio has been added to the Telephone Information Service (TIS).

To listen, clients can call 04 389 3858 and press 73 for Local Body Election information, then:

• Press 1 for Auckland.

• Press 2 for Masterton.

TIS phone numbers for other regions are listed on our website.

Accessible voting support for Auckland’s local elections

Local elections are coming up, and Auckland Council is offering a range of accessible services to support disabled communities across the region. To help make voting easier and more inclusive, there are services in place including a screen reader–friendly website, NZSL videos, audio recordings of candidate statements, and, for the first time in a local election, phone voting for people who are blind, have low vision, or are physically unable to mark their voting paper.

Voting opens on 9 September. The TellMe phone service will be available from 1 September. Below is a summary of the key information.

Accessing Election Information:

• A screen reader compatible website
  The Vote Auckland website is fully compatible with NVDA and meets WCAG 2.2 AA standards.

• Elections 101 videos in NZSL
  Introductory videos are available in NZSL. Watch the full playlist on the Vote Auckland website.

Learning About Candidates

• From 1 September, candidate statements will be available on the candidate page with accessible formats.

• Scan the QR code in your guidebook to reach candidate statements in accessible formats.

• Watch NZSL translations of candidate statements on the Infowave website.

• Listen to audio recordings via the TellMe phone service on 09 283 0044.

How to vote by phone

1. Call the Electoral Office on 0800 922 822 to request phone voting (you can request anytime).

2. If you request before voting opens on 9 September, an official will call you back during the voting period.

3. The Electoral Office will confirm your eligibility.

4. A trained official will complete the special voting process with you over the phone between 9 September and midday Saturday 11 October.

5. Your vote will be submitted securely through a phone dictation process.

Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era — International Literacy Day

On 8 September 2025, we celebrate International Literacy Day. This year’s theme, promoting literacy in the digital era, reminds us not only how important it is to have access to reading and learning tools through technology, but also to ensure these tools are accessible.

At the Blind Low Vision NZ Library, literacy is not one-size-fits-all. From Braille and audio to large print and e-text, we support thousands of New Zealanders to learn, explore, and connect in a way that works for them. With 68,932 Library loans last year, accessible literacy makes a real impact. In 2025, our partnership with the Accessible Books Consortium gave members access to an additional 99,500 DAISY books.

Blind Low Vision NZ’s Accessible Format Services (AFS) turns digital content into touch, sound, and meaning — from electronic Braille and embossed copies to accessible audio and PDFs. New UV-print processes are speeding up production for durable Braille signage, labels, and maps. In 2024, AFS completed over 200 transcription jobs for about 180 clients nationwide.

In the digital era, technology does not replace Braille. It powers it.

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 your TV remote. Some TVs use a different label, or require AD to be switched via the menu.

See listings of audio-described programmes for this week on the Able website.

The Blind History Lady: Zorah the Telephone Man

The Blind History Lady shares inspiring, often surprising stories of blind people throughout history. For over three decades, Peggy Chong has collected and re-researched these histories to bring forward the impact of people with low or no vision.

Meet Zorah Tinsley, who in 1920s Oklahoma built a rural phone network from the ground up — from chickens to switchboards — quietly and relentlessly making his vision real.

Read the story: Zorah the Telephone Man (Word Doc). To learn more or join Peggy’s email list, contact theblindhistorylady@gmail.com.

Job Opportunities

We’re always looking for passionate people to join the Blind Low Vision NZ whānau. Current vacancies include:

• Guide Dog Mobility Instructor — Auckland

• Employment Consultant — Wellington

• Client Service Coordinator — Christchurch

Find out more and apply via the Blind Low Vision NZ Careers page.