Kōrero: February 2025.
E kore a muri e hokia – He rā ki tua.
What is done is done – Better times are coming.
This month’s whakataukī remind us that the start of a new year is a perfect time to reflect on the past and focus on the future with hope.
While we cannot change what has already happened, we can carry its lessons into the year ahead and move forward with renewed energy. January marks a fresh chapter, full of opportunities and brighter days to come!
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:
- HTML webpage: Korero webpage on the Blind Low Vision NZ website.
- 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: Call our Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33 if you would like to receive Kōrero in Braille.
Message from Andrea
Kia ora,
It’s been a busy start to the year, with important conversations happening across Blind Low Vision NZ.
At the end of January, our Board and Executive Leadership Team held a joint workshop to explore who our future clients might be and what support they will need. It was a fantastic discussion, and we were lucky to hear from Neve, our graduate, who shared her journey and insights. Her perspective was incredibly powerful.
In February, we’re looking forward to meeting clients in Gisborne. These hui are always a great chance to listen and learn from our communities. If you’re in the area, we’d love to connect with you.
We’ll also be holding our next Board meeting in Gisborne on 1 March. If you’d like to attend online or receive updates, please contact Board Secretary, Diana Chandler via email at boardsecretary@blindlowvision.org.nz.
Looking forward to staying connected and hearing from you.
Ngā mihi nui,
Andrea Midgen
Chief Executive, Blind Low Vision NZ
Thumbs up
New Alexa Features Now Live!
We’re excited to announce that the new Alexa skill update, providing access to an additional 99,500 DAISY books through the Accessible Books Consortium (ABC), is officially live since the launch of February 15!
New Feature: Expanded library access via Alexa, enabling members to explore 99,500 additional DAISY books from the ABC catalogue.
To get the best experience reading these books, we’ve added a feature called “bookshelf.” The bookshelf is where ABC books can be downloaded and accessed. Once downloaded, the ABC books can be read using the same commands as used for the BLVNZ books. We hope this new feature enhances your reading experience and provides greater access to a wide range of books. Blind Low Vision NZ Accessible Books Consortium page.
Alternatively, please email library@blindlowvision.org.nz
or call our Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33 for any queries you may have.
New SMS Service for Deafblind Clients
We’re excited to let you know about a new way for Deafblind clients to contact our team – by text message! This service is here to make it easier for you to connect with us when you need help or support.
You can text us on 022 011 7407, and if you prefer to call, you can still reach us on 0800 24 33 33.
This SMS service launched earlier this year, giving you another accessible way to stay in touch with us.
Privacy and Security
How is my personal information protected when I use the SMS service?
Your personal information is protected as per the Blind Low Vision NZ Privacy Policy
Getting Started
Do I need to register or set up anything to start using the SMS service? If you are Deafblind and a registered client of Blind Low Vision NZ, you can start using the SMS service right away.
Are there any costs involved in using this service? Standard SMS rates as per your phone service provider will apply but there are no additional costs.
Feedback and Troubleshooting
Who can I contact if I have trouble using the service or want to provide feedback? We welcome feedback on our services! Please use this email address to send us compliments – compliments@blindlowvision.org.nz – or use this email address to us complaints – complaints@blindlowvision.org.nz.
Board Chair’s Award honours Mark Laurent for outstanding achievements
The Board Chair’s Award, presented annually at the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind Board Annual General Meeting, honours a blind, deafblind, or low vision client who has demonstrated an outstanding level of achievement in any field of endeavour. This year, the prestigious award was presented to Mark Laurent, a professional musician, songwriter, and poet with low vision.
Mark Laurent has written over 200 original songs, often exploring themes of faith and social connection. He now focuses on performing his own music while touring New Zealand. In addition to his musical achievements, Mark is the author of the children’s book Rufus and the Rain, which continues to inspire with its authenticity and creativity. Find Rufus and the Rain in the Blind Low Vision NZ Library, Book Number 053156.
Mark’s achievements exemplify the talent, resilience, and passion that define so many in our community. We celebrate his success and are proud to recognise his contributions through the Chair’s Award.
Mark Laurent shared his thoughts on receiving the award, saying, “A lot of my songs over the last few decades, are not necessarily Christian songs. But if you have some core beliefs in your life, they tend to sneak through, whether you want them to or not.”
The award was announced at the AGM held in November 2024 and presented to Mark on 31 January 2025 at the Blind Low Vision NZ Parnell office.
The Board Chair’s Award has a rich history of recognising exceptional individuals since 1986. Recent recipients include Gene Gibson in 2023, Chris Orr in 2022, and Maria Stevens in 2021, all of whom have demonstrated remarkable achievements in their respective fields.
For more information about Mark Laurent and his work, please visit Mark Laurent’s LinkedIn profile.
Image description: Blind Low Vision NZ Chair, Clive Lansink presents prolific poet, musician, and songwriter Mark Laurent with the 2024 Blind Low Vision NZ Chair’s Award.
You could be next! Blind Sports for everyone
What a way to start the year! As we look back on 2024, we can’t help but celebrate the incredible accomplishments of one of our own. Rhonda’s triumph at the South Australian Blind Tennis Open is a true inspiration. With victories in both the singles and doubles events, she’s shown that with determination and the right adapted skills, people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision can continue doing what they love or take on new exciting challenges.
Have you ever heard of or tried Blind Tennis? It’s an adaptive sport that makes it possible for people with low or no vision to enjoy tennis and stay active. Played on a smaller court with a low-bouncing, audible ball, Blind Tennis uses shorter strokes, making it easier to follow the game and track the action. It’s a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to get involved in tennis and have fun.
Rhonda’s journey began at Ngatira Tennis Club in Auckland, where she joined free coaching sessions. Despite not having played tennis for over 40 years, Rhonda quickly rediscovered her love for the sport in the club’s welcoming and supportive environment.
She started by rolling the ball along the ground, and as she progressed, she learned to use her raquet to stop it. Eventually, she mastered serving. “It’s such a thrill when I make contact and get it over the net,” Rhonda said. Now, she’s focusing on returning the ball by listening to its tone, which helps her judge its speed and direction.
After months of dedicated practice, Rhonda’s confidence and skills soared. Her consistent effort, combined with the support of her community, was key to her progress. Through fundraising efforts like sausage sizzles and raffles, Rhonda turned her dream of competing in Adelaide into a reality.
In November, Rhonda proudly represented New Zealand at the South Australian Blind Tennis Open. Competing in the B1 Women’s Singles and Doubles categories, she stood out among 57 players from across Australia. As one of only two New Zealanders in the tournament, her achievement was all the more remarkable.
Her hard work paid off when she claimed first place in both events. It was a fantastic achievement that highlighted her dedication and passion for the game.
Rhonda hopes to inspire others, saying, “Blind tennis is for everyone. Start small—grab a rattle ball, a raquet, and hit against a wall at home or at your local tennis club. It’s all about having fun and staying active. Who knows? You might even compete one day!”
A huge congratulations to Rhonda for proving that anything is possible!
If you’d like to learn more about Blind Tennis or get involved, email BLVtennisnz@gmail.com. You can also contact our Sport and Leisure team at SportandLeisure@blindlowvision.org.nz to explore more Blind sport opportunities in your area!
Image description: Doubles with Isaiah Muller standing on court and Rhonda in full flight.
Rhonda leaning against the tennis court divider netting whilst holding her racquet.
Guide dogs steal the show at Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day Festival 2025
We are proud to share that the Blind Low Vision NZ team had a fantastic time at the Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day Festival 2025, held on 6 February from 10am to 4pm at The Historic Village, Tauranga. Our stand was a real hit, and the guide dogs were certainly the stars of the day, attracting plenty of attention—though we’re sure they enjoyed it just as much as everyone else!
It was wonderful to connect with so many people, share more about what we do, and see some of our clients come by for a chat. While it was a long day, there were plenty of smiles at the end.
A big thank you to everyone who stopped by and supported us. Your presence made the day even more special!
Blind Low Vision NZ April 2024 Camp Review
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.
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:
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- 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.
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 dialing 0800 100 051.
Noticeboard
Seeing Streets Differently campaign launch at Government House
On Friday 14 March, Blind Low Vision NZ will be holding a reception at Government House in Wellington to launch the Seeing Streets Differently campaign. We have invited MPs from across the political spectrum, especially those with a focus on transport, infrastructure, local government and disability.
Lack of accessible design and regulations surrounding footpaths is a big issue in our community. Having a continuous clear path of travel is essential for blind, deafblind and low vision people to be able to get to where they need to go confidently and safely.
We’re calling on our elected representatives to regulate to make our footpaths more accessible and safer.
We will have a panel of speakers with lived experience of blindness, deafblindness and low vision to speak about the issues and proposed solutions. There will also be community leaders from various blindness groups such as Blind Citizens NZ and Deafblind Association of NZ, allied groups such as Living Streets Aotearoa, and supporters and clients of Blind Low Vision NZ.
This will be a chance to connect with key decision-makers in person and highlight the real impact of inaccessible footpaths.
Travelling to South Auckland? Homai Station Upgrades and Summer Rail Updates
We’re excited to share that the new access ramp at Homai Station is now open as of 28 January 2025! The ramp now provides the sole access to the platform, there is no more level crossing, which makes travel safer and more convenient for everyone. Additionally, the Park and Ride bus stop is back in its permanent spot next to the station.
While most upgrades are complete, work continues on the stairs and path connecting the Park and Ride to Browns Road. New lights on McVilly Road will also be installed in February, wrapping up the improvements. The existing accessible path from the Park and Ride to Browns Road remains unchanged.
Read the full article about this update on the RNZ website. For more information on timetables please visit train line status webpage.
Gifts in Wills Campaign – Free Online Will Offer 17 – 30 March
At Blind Low Vision NZ, we’re here to support you with the skills and services to live life with confidence and independence. Whether it’s providing a guide dog, mobility training, assistive technology, or counselling, we’re committed to being there every step of the way.
We rely on donations to continue our vital work, as government funding alone isn’t enough. Did you know that in the last financial year, 44% of our income came from Gifts in Wills?
Our next campaign focuses on gifts in Wills, and we want to encourage this meaningful form of giving.
Writing a Will can often be costly, so we’re offering an opportunity to
write your Will for free in collaboration with Safewill.
This offer is available from 17 – 30 March. Outside of these dates, you can still write your will at half the usual price, starting from only $80 NZD.
Having a Will is essential to ensure your family’s future is secure. Once you’ve provided for your loved ones, please consider leaving a gift to support our mission – even as little as 1% can make a long-lasting impact. Your legacy can help us continue empowering people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision to lead the lives they choose.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Dates: Create your Will for free from 17 – 30 March.
- Ease of Use: The process is straightforward – you can use any computer or even your phone.
- Security: Your personal data is protected, and the contents of your Will are private to you.
To learn more or get started on your Will, visit the Safewill website. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Joanne Eve, Relationships Manager – Legacies, at legacies@blindlowvision.org.nz or give her a call on 022 015 9216.
Have Your Say on Disability Support Services
Community consultation – opens on 10 February and runs to 24 March 2025
The Ministry of Social Development’s (MSD) next community consultation on Disability Support Services will take place from 10 February until 24 March 2025. This builds on responses they received through their survey and submissions in late 2024. While everyone is welcome to participate, they especially want to hear from people who receive essential disability support after an assessment from a NASC or EGL site. MSD is seeking feedback on clearer assessment and allocation processes, and options for changes to flexible funding. Your feedback will help Government to make decisions to stabilise disability support services before considering further work to strength those supports into the future.
Visit the Disability Support Consultation website to learn more and how to have your say.
Upcoming events
Join our Nationwide Zoom Book Club!
Engage in lively discussions, explore exciting reads, and connect with others all from the comfort of your home. Join bookworms from around the country in these evening sessions using Zoom on your computer, tablet, or phone. If you haven’t used Zoom before, we’ll help you get started. All you need to get involved is an internet connection and the meeting link we’ll send you.
The group picks its next captivating read from the Blind Low Vision NZ Accessible Library a month in advance. Not a Library member? Signing up is simple and free, email the Library at library@blindlowvision.org.nz or call 0800 24 33 33 to get started.
Whether you’re passionate about books or simply want a fun way to link up with others, this is a great chance to explore new reads and enjoy good company.
The club is held the third Wednesday of every month, 7–7.40pm.
Join us for our next read! Email Hanya, Sport and Leisure Advisor, at HGallagher@blindlowvision.org.nz or phone 0220113390
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 Work Ready Webinar Recordings at your leisure on the Blind Low Vision NZ website.
Opportunity to observe the Auckland Disability Advisory Panel meeting
The Auckland Council Disability Advisory Panel is holding an upcoming meeting, and people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision are welcome to observe. You can attend either in person or online.
There is no deadline to submit interest, but if you’d like to attend in person, you will need to email Disability.AdvisoryPanel@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to express your interest of attending.
For those attending online, you can join via Microsoft Teams. Please note that online observers will have their cameras and microphones disabled, while in-person attendees will be seated in the public gallery at the back of the meeting room.
For more details, visit Auckland Council’s website or contact Disability.AdvisoryPanel@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for the Microsoft Teams link.
Employment and Youth Pathways Services Webinar – 10.00am Tuesday 11 March 2025
The overarching purpose of the Employment and Youth Pathways service is to support Blind Low Vision NZ clients to gain meaningful and sustainable employment or make a successful transition into post-secondary training, study, or the community.
Join Sarah Mitchell, Head of Employment and Youth Pathways on Tuesday 11 March 2025 at 10:00 a.m. We will have an informative discussion about the services offered by the Employment and Youth Pathways team.
This one-hour professional development offering is part of Blind Low Vision NZ’s Work Ready webinar serries and will be available live via Zoom and the recording will also be uploaded onto our website.
Topics covered include:
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- Services available to support BLVNZ clients into meaningful study or employment.
- External services available to assist with supported employment.
- BLVNZ funds and trusts.
Gallop Clifton Strength Finder.
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- BLVNZ Graduate programme.
- Individualised professional development support.
Join via Zoom.
We do hope that you can join us for this informative session.
Guide Dog Puppy Appeal – coming this March
Guide dogs change lives, providing independence, confidence, and companionship. But every guide dog starts as a puppy in training—and that’s where the Guide Dog Puppy Appeal comes in.
This March, we’re asking New Zealanders across the country for support to help train the next generation of guide dogs. Look out for this campaign and share it with friends and family or ask them to visit our website to know more.
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
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
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 – You Must Leave Your Home. It’s a story about resilience, courage, and the indomitable spirit of those who pushed through adversity to create new possibilities for themselves and others. Discover how blind people, defying stereotypes of dependency, lived life on their terms, made meaningful contributions to their communities, and thrived independently in the early 1900’s.
To learn more about Peggy’s work or to sign up for her email list, contact her at theblindhistorylady@gmail.com.
News from the Royal New Zealand Foundation of The Blind (RNZFB) Board
RNZFB Board of Directors meeting
The 2025 Board meeting dates have been published on the BLVNZ Governance webpage.
The next RNZFB Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled for Saturday 1 March 2024 in Gisborne.
The confirmed meeting minutes of the 15 November full Board meeting are available, and also the draft minutes of the 2024 AGM and Special Meeting of Members. 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 menu 3, 1, 3.
RNZFB Board of Directors meeting
The 2025 Board meeting dates have been published on the Blind Low Vision NZ Governance webpage.
The next RNZFB Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled for Saturday 1 March 2024 in Gisborne.
The confirmed meeting minutes of the 15 November 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 menu 3, 1, 3.
Meet and Greet Event in Gisborne
The next RNZFB Board Meet and Greet event is set to take place on Friday 28 February, in the hall of the BLVNZ Gisborne office, 39 Grey Street. The session will run from 1:00pm – 3:00pm and will be followed by tea, coffee and biscuits. At the session 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 want to attend, please RSVP via email to boardsecretary@blindlowvision.org.nz or phone the BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.
Mandatory Policies for Consultation
Just a reminder that the Board has been reviewing several policies, which includes circulating them to clients and stakeholders for comment.
The Governance Committee have documented and summarised the comments received on the proposed changes to policies 3.1 Children, 3.2 Te Tāngata Whenua, and 3.11 Conflicts of Interest, and will make recommendations to the Board on any changes that should be considered in response. The Board may consult again depending on feedback received, but ultimately the Board will release a report summarising the response and explaining its final decisions regarding these policies.
Feedback on policies 3.3 Other Minority Groups, 3.5 Application of Money, and 3.8 Communications, Preferred Formats and Service of Documents is due by Monday 10 March 2025.
Feedback on Policy 3.9 Plain English, is due by Monday 24 March 2025.
You’re welcome to comment on any or all of these. There are several ways you can let us have your feedback. They are:
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- Email to boardsecretary@blindlowvision.org.nz
- Record your submission on the Telephone Information Service, menu option 3153.
- Post your submission in your preferred format to Board Secretary, RNZFB, Private Bag 99941, Newmarket, Auckland 1149.
2025 Board Retreat
Following the joint strategic planning session between the Board, Chief Executive, and BLVNZ Executive Leadership Team on Friday 31 January, in Parnell, the Board commenced 2025 with its annual retreat. This retreat, also held in Parnell, provided a great opportunity for strategic planning and setting work goals for the year ahead.
Constitution Review
At its November meeting, the Board approved the Terms of Reference for the external independent review of the constitution. An interim steering group has been formed, holding its first meeting in January. A discussion on possible reviewers is scheduled for the Governance Committee meeting in February.
Chair’s Newsletter
You can check out the latest newsletter on the BLVNZ Governance webpage, and on the Telephone Information Service at option 3 1 1.
Clive Lansink
RNZFB Board Chair
In the News
Silent electric vehicles pose safety risks to blind and low vision community
Stronger together: The power in community.
Read Robyn Hunt’s article on The D List website.
Speak your truth: Disability Support Services boss encourages honest feedback in community consultation.
Dive into the conversation between Red Nicholson and Chris Bunny.
Finding a way forward: life with achromatopsia.
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) Report Spotlights Impact of AI for Disabled People.
Read the press release from AFB about their latest report on the Impact of AI for disabled people.
Shining a light on entrepreneurs in the disabled community.
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.