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Kōrero: January 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!

Three orange circles from the Blind Low Vision NZ logo. Text is Kōrero, Blind Low Vision NZ, Kāpō, Matarehu Aotearoa.

Formats

Kōrero is emailed to all our clients and members, Consumer Organisations, and Community Committees on the last Thursday of every month, except December when it is delivered earlier on account of Holiday Closure dates. 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,
As we step into a new year, it’s a chance to reflect, reset, and refocus. Just like the harakeke, our growth often comes from clearing space—letting go of what no longer serves us and making room for fresh opportunities.

Earlier this month, we celebrated Braille Day, recognising the power of accessible formats in helping people stay connected, independent, and thriving. It was a reminder of how vital these tools are in creating a world where everyone has the chance to grow and achieve their goals.

For some, the new year might mean trying new things, reconnecting with what you love, or finding support to overcome challenges. Whatever your journey looks like, Blind Low Vision NZ is here to help you shape the year ahead in a way that works for you.

Our services are designed to support you—whether it’s finding ways to get around, exploring new technology, or connecting with others. Together, we can clear the path for a year full of possibility.

Here’s to making 2025 a year of opportunity, growth, and connection.

Kia kaha
Andrea Midgen
Chief Executive, Blind Low Vision NZ

Thumbs up

Winner of the 2024 ABC International Excellence Award for Accessible Publishing

We are thrilled to share some exciting news from the end of last year. The Round Table on Information Access for People with Print Disabilities, of which Blind Low Vision NZ is a proud member, has won the 2024 Accessible Books Consortium (ABC) International Excellence Award for Accessible Publishing!
The Round Table’s collective efforts, built on decades of expertise and collaboration across Australia and New Zealand, have been recognised for their commitment to improving accessibility and fostering inclusion. This award reflects the organisation’s ongoing drive to create innovative and impactful initiatives that benefit people with print disabilities. As an active member of the Round Table, we are proud to contribute to its mission of producing high-quality alternative formats, ensuring equitable access to information. It’s an honour to celebrate this incredible achievement with the Round Table and its members, including Blind Low Vision NZ.

The Accessible Books Consortium, under the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), champions global initiatives to expand the availability of accessible books and materials. The International Excellence Award is a testament to the transformative impact of the Round Table and its members.

To learn more about the Round Table and its impactful work, visit the Round Table website (printdisability.org). For more details on the ABC International Excellence Award, visit the ABC Website (accessiblebooksconsortium.org).

Happy Braille Month: Transforming Literacy for People with Low or No Vision

As the Earth completes another orbit and January brings a new beginning, it’s a perfect time to reflect on January 4th, a special day to celebrate Braille. Braille is more than just a writing system. It’s a vital literacy tool that opens doors to inclusion and independence for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. It has transformed our community, allowing us to read, write, and engage with the world in ways that were once unimaginable.
At Blind Low Vision NZ, we understand the transformative power of Braille. Whether you’re reading a book, signing your name, or following instructions at work, Braille gives you the tools to navigate life with confidence. For many in our community, Braille is the key to success in education, the workplace, and daily life. We always aim to offer a wide range of resources and services to support Braille learning, from adaptive technology to personalised support. Whether you’re just starting or have been using Braille for years, our team is here to help you every step of the way. There’s always more to explore, and we’re ready to assist with any Braille resources you need.

To learn more about Braille, its history, and its impact, visit our website (blindlowvision.org.nz), where we explore how Braille continues to shape literacy, enrich lives, and empower people with vision loss to connect with the world.

If you’d like to learn more or need help accessing Braille materials, please get in touch with our Accessible Formats team through our Contact Centre at 0800 24 33 33 or please submit an Accessible Format Request Form online.

Ask me anything

This is your monthly opportunity to send questions or share your thoughts directly with our Chief Executive, Andrea Midgen, and the RNZFB Board (blindlowvision.org.nz).
Whether it is 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.

We will anonymously feature some of your questions and responses in future newsletters, so please share what’s on your mind by emailing communications@blindlowvision.org.nz. Alternatively, you can call our Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.

Let’s start the conversation – we’re listening!

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.

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

Recording of Webinar: Discover Accessible Technology You Didn’t Know You Had

Last year, in collaboration with Vision Australia, we delivered an educational webinar about in-built accessibility features of Android phones, iPhones, Windows computers, as well as a quick introduction to the Seeing AI app to enhance daily living for people with low or no vision. A recording of this tech webinar is available on YouTube on our Resources webpage (blindlowvision.org.nz).

Upcoming events

Save the date: Innovation in Retina Research 2025

Retina NZ invites you to the Innovation in Retina Research 2025 Summer Symposium in Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau in February 2025.
The event will be held at Blind Low Vision NZ South Auckland office, 20 McVilly Road, Manurewa, Auckland 2102.

For professionals, the symposium will take place on Friday, 21st February 2025, from 1 pm to 5 pm.

For members, supporters, and anyone else interested, the event is scheduled for Saturday, 22nd February 2025.

Confirmed speakers include:

  • Professor Robyn Guymer, Deputy Director at the Centre for Eye Research Australia, and Professor of Surgery in Ophthalmology at the University of Melbourne. Professor Guymer will speak about what’s new in Age-related Macular Degeneration, covering the latest treatments for both wet and dry AMD, as well as upcoming developments.
  • Associate Professor Lauren Ayton from the University of Melbourne’s Centre for Eye Research Australia will provide updates on inherited retinal diseases, including gene therapy clinical trials.
  • Dr. Odunayo (Lola) Mugisho, Senior Research Fellow and Deputy Director of the Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, will share insights on advances in Diabetic Retinopathy.

More speakers to be announced soon, please visit retina.org.nz for the latest.

Accessible Performances at Auckland Arts Festival – March 2025

The Auckland Arts Festival is dedicated to ensuring everyone can enjoy extraordinary arts experiences. In collaboration with Deaf and disabled communities, and with support from Arts Access Aotearoa, the festival provides a variety of accessible programmes. For 2025, the festival includes audio description, NZSL interpretation, and relaxed performances.
Tickets for accessible shows for the Deaf and disabled community are $20, with one free companion ticket per patron. However, this does not apply to four shows such as Six the Musical, A Mixtape for Maladies, Ration the Queen’s Veges, and Piers Lane, as these are booked through separate providers. Please note that some events have limited capacity, so early booking is highly recommended.

Audio Described Performances

Next year’s festival features five audio-described performances:

  • Six the Musical: An international musical theatre sensation.

This 80-minute global sensation has won 35 international awards, including two Tonys, and earned a Grammy nomination. Audio Described tickets are available until 5pm, Tuesday, 25 February 2025, or until sold out.
When: Wednesday 5 March 2025, 7:30pm.

Where: The Civic, 269-287 Queen Street, corner of Queen Street & Wellesley Street West, Auckland CBD.

Audio Described tickets are $70 each (plus fees), with companion tickets available at the same price. Guide dogs are welcome – please notify staff when booking.

A free touch tour starts at 6:15pm, offering a closer look at costumes and props. Arrive at The Civic foyer by 6:00pm for staff assistance. To book, call 09 970 9745 or email groups@ticketmaster.co.nz. A $8 service fee applies to phone bookings.

  • Smashed: The Nightcap: A cabaret experience.
  • Mixtape for Maladies: A blend of New Zealand theatre and live music.
  • Animal: A family-friendly circus show from Montreal.
  • A Streetcar Named Desire: A narrative ballet by the Scottish Ballet, based on Tennessee Williams’ iconic play.

Two shows will include pre-show audio description notes:

  • Ration the Queen’s Veges: A New Zealand production exploring te Tiriti o Waitangi.
  • HEDY! The Life and Inventions of Hedy Lamarr: A one-woman show.

Additionally, six shows are mostly audio-based and naturally accessible for blind or low vision audiences, and two others will offer resources in accessible formats.
If you’re interested in arts events, you can find accessible shows, book tickets, or download a large-print brochure from the Auckland Arts Festival Website (aaf.co.nz).

For audio-described performances, visit Audio-Described shows on the Auckland Arts Festival Website (aaf.co.nz).

For questions, please email Hannah Slade at access@aaf.co.nz or call 022 123 9759.

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.

Community Bulletin

Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day Festival 2025

Join us at Tauranga’s Historic Village for the Tauranga Moana Waitangi Day Festival on Thursday, 6 February 2025! This cherished annual event is a chance to commemorate the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and reflect on its significance. It’s also a celebration of Tauranga’s vibrant and diverse community.
The festival promises a packed day of family-friendly fun. Enjoy live music from talented performers, a bustling array of boutique stalls, and a mouth-watering selection of food trucks. For the first time, the event will also feature the Waitangi Day Festival Art Competition. Make sure to check out the incredible entries from local artists!

This year, Blind Low Vision NZ will join the festival with our own stall. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with the Tauranga community, share what we do, and celebrate the day together.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, 6 February 2025.
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Location: The Historic Village, 17th Ave West, Tauranga.
Come along to enjoy the festivities, learn, and celebrate the richness of our cultures. We look forward to seeing you there!

The Ultimate New Year’s Resolution: Accessible Travel

As the holiday season comes to an end, many of you are settling back into your daily routines, with plenty of stories to share from your time away. Travel is often a popular topic, and whether or not you’ve flown recently, it’s easy to imagine the challenges people with disabilities face when flying. But here’s some good news for New Zealanders: Air New Zealand is on a mission to become the world’s most accessible airline. They believe that with a thoughtful approach, air travel can be made more comfortable and accessible for everyone. Their commitment to accessibility ensures a smoother, more supportive journey for passengers with disabilities, including those who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. With specially trained staff and accessible features on board, they are raising the bar for inclusivity in air travel.
To learn more about the review of services and support Air New Zealand offers, including staff training and specific assistance options, Read the full article on the Condé Nast Traveler website.

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 organization.

Low Vision Clinic Day for Optometry Students

The University of Auckland Optometry Clinic invites volunteers with low vision or reduced visual fields to participate in their Low Vision Day on Monday, 24 February, from 10:30 am to 2:45 pm at the Grafton Campus. This event offers a unique opportunity to support optometry students’ learning while exploring assistive technologies such as voice-to-text and vision apps. Volunteers will receive a vision check, share their experiences with students, enjoy a complimentary lunch, and receive a $50 Countdown voucher as a token of appreciation.
Volunteers must have at least one eye with vision between 6/6 and 6/720 and/or reduced visual fields including tunnel vision or vision loss from stroke. Space is limited, and registration closes on 7th February or when spots are filled.

For more details or to register, contact Michelle O’Hanlon at m.ohanlon@auckland.ac.nz or call 09 923 6592.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to contribute to optometry education and receive a free eye exam!

Volunteer Opportunity for Otago residents – help train the next generation of doctors

The University of Otago Medical School is looking for volunteers to help medical students practice their communication skills. This opportunity allows students to better understand the experiences of those living with disabilities or health issues. It provides valuable practice in communication and consultation, helping them become more skilled and empathetic doctors. Many volunteers find the experience rewarding and meaningful.
This opportunity is open to Otago residents. Volunteers will meet with small groups of medical students to share their experiences. These meetings can take place at the medical school or in the volunteer’s own home. All conversations are private and confidential. Volunteers will receive a small koha (gift) for completing their interview at the Hunter Centre.

They are looking for volunteers who:

  • Live with a medical condition, chronic illness, or disability.
  • Are carers for someone with health challenges.
  • Have experienced significant life changes, like recent loss or lifestyle adjustments for health.

There is no deadline for applications, as this opportunity is available throughout the year. If you’d like to be involved, please submit your Expression of Interest via the Microsoft Form.

News from the Royal New Zealand Foundation of The Blind (RNZFB) Board

Board appointments

The Board met for the first time after the AGM to make its various appointments. I have been re-elected Chair and Judy Small is Deputy Chair.
The full committee appointment list is as follows, with these subcommittees electing their chairs at their first meeting:

Audit and Risk Committee: Richard Patete, Anne Marie Taggart, Ron Scott, Chris Orr.

Governance Committee: Judy Small, Donna McCaskill, Ron Scott.

People Committee: Anne Marie Taggart, Martine Abel-Williamson, John Billings, Richard Patete.

Client Services Committee: Martine Abel-Williamson, John Billings, Donna McCaskill, Chris Orr, Judy Small.

Pearson Fund: John Billings, Chris Orr.

BLENNZ Representative Trustee: Martine Abel-Williamson.

Blind Sector Forum Aotearoa New Zealand: Clive Lansink and Judy Small.

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.

Mandatory Policies for Consultation

Just a reminder that the Board has been reviewing a number of policies, which includes circulating them to clients and stakeholders for comment.

  • Policies 3.1, 3.2, and 3.11 feedback was due by Monday 13 January 2025. Feedback is now closed. Thanks for your submissions.
  • Policies 3.4, 3.6, and 3.7 feedback is due by Monday 10 February 2025.
  • Policies 3.3, 3.5, and 3.8 feedback is due by Monday 10 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:

  • 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

The Board begins 2025 at the end of January when it holds its annual retreat, which is set to take place in Parnell Auckland. This is a great opportunity for planning and setting work goals for the upcoming year. At this same time, the Board will have a joint strategic planning session with the Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team.

Chair’s Newsletter

The latest newsletter is now out, 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.

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.