Kōrero: July 2026
He aroha whakatō, he aroha puta mai.
If kindness is sown, then kindness is what you shall receive.
This whakataukī reflects the idea that when we create a culture of care, respect, and inclusion, those values are returned through trust, connection, and shared purpose.
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 is available easily at http://BlindLowVision.org.nz/korero.
- July 2026 Kōrero 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 March 2026 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,
It was a real privilege to sit down with the members of our new Youth Council for their very first meeting this month.
I left that meeting feeling incredibly proud and genuinely hopeful.
In the 136-year history of Blind Low Vision NZ, this is the first time we have had a dedicated Youth Council. That makes this a truly special milestone. For the first time, young people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision have a formal place at the table to help shape the future of our organisation and the support we provide.
Our Youth Council members come from different parts of Aotearoa and bring with them a wide range of experiences, ideas, and perspectives. As I listened to them speak about navigating the world as young people with vision loss, I was struck by their honesty, insight, and determination.
This first meeting was about getting to know one another, sharing stories, and talking about the things that matter most to them. There was laughter, thoughtful discussion, and moments of real connection. These young people spoke openly about the barriers they face, but also about their ambitions, their creativity, and the changes they want to see for the next generation.
What moved me most was the strength in the room. These were not just conversations about services or programmes. They were conversations about belonging, independence, opportunity, and being heard.
I want to thank every Youth Council member for stepping forward and for the time, energy, and heart they are bringing to this role. Your voice matters. You are helping to shape a future where young people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision feel seen, valued, and included.
I cannot wait to see what we achieve together.
Ngā mihi,
Andrea
Noticeboard
Client Reference Group
We are very excited to announce that the selection of members for the Client Reference Group is complete. There was high interest in joining the group with over 70 applications submitted. Seven client’s make-up the group along with two Directors.
The Client Reference Group (CRG) is a governance reference group that will focus on service innovation at a strategic level, providing valuable insights to the Board. The group is in place for an initial term of 18 months.
The group will meet for the first time in August.
Client Reference Group Members
- Paul Brown, Auckland. Paul is passionate about members and clients having a role in prioritising and shaping services. He has strong networks and is a Committee member of the Auckland Branch of Blind Citizens Ltd. Paul runs his own business.
- Ross Pahuru, Gisborne. Ross is keen to act as a voice for the remote and rural areas and to work with the CRG to make a difference in the lives of vision impaired New Zealanders and their whānau. Ross brings a wealth of experience having held senior leadership roles for most of his career and is currently on five Boards.
- Masumi Scherb, Auckland. Masumi has a strong interest in technology and would like to see more deployment of technology in provision of services. Masumi hopes to champion better access, accessibility across all services like education, transport and equal employment opportunities. Masumi is recently retired.
- Renee Sharp, Hamilton. Renee’s passion is to ensure BLVNZ services are fit for purpose and available for all. Renee is a trained teacher with a strong technology background. She works for Health NZ and is a very active volunteer.
- Amanda Stevens, Wellington. Amanda has strong experience in governance and senior executive roles both at a national and international level. She has significant networks within the disability sector and is keen to share her skills to provide advice and analysis to BLVNZ governance.
- Daniel Te’o, Auckland. With over 20 years experience in the health and disability sector, coupled with lived experience, Daniel believes in collective success where common ground is found through the sharing of ideas and experiences. He has a keen interest in addressing system inequity, with a focus on ensuring service access for Pacific communities.
- Eilish Wilkes, Hamilton. Eilish is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others. Eilish holds a range of roles belonging to Waikato Enabling Good Lives Leadership Group and the Hamilton City Council Disability Advisory Group and works as a Disability Lead for My Life My Voice. She has been a volunteer for BLVNZ both in fundraising activities and as a committee member.
Director Members
- Judy Small, Hamilton, Judy graduated in 1999 with a Master of Social Science (Hons). While studying Judy served on the Blind Citizens New Zealand National Executive. She worked as a Policy Analyst for 11½ years in social policy in the Office for Disability Issues. She has worked for nine years at Hamilton City Council, as Disability Advisor. All her roles have focused on policy and strategy development and leading community-based projects.
- Clive Lansink, Auckland, Clive has spent much of his personal life working on behalf of blind and low vision people and was President of Blind Citizens New Zealand for a total of thirteen years. He has an engineering degree as well as a law degree (Hons). Much of his career has been spent in the computer industry, and in the blind community he is particularly known for his development of the Foundation’s Telephone Information Service. He is now semi-retired running his own business from home, doing consulting and projects in areas of technology and making information accessible to blind and low vision people.
Help shape the future of Braille in Aotearoa
Braille plays an important role in literacy, education, employment and independence for many people who are blind or have low vision.
Over the past year, we have been listening to clients, staff and the wider Braille community. One message has come through clearly: Braille remains as important as ever.
Technology has created new ways to access information, but it does not replace Braille. Instead, Braille and technology can work alongside each other to give people more choice in how they read, learn, work and access information.
As we strengthen our commitment to Braille, we want users across Aotearoa to help shape what comes next.
Coming soon, our national Braille Census will give you the opportunity to share your experiences.
We want to hear what is working well, what challenges you’re facing, and what support you would like to see in the future.
Your feedback will help guide future decisions about Braille services, learning opportunities, equipment, awareness, advocacy and access.
Whether you have used Braille for decades, are learning now or are considering learning in the future, we want to hear from you.
More information about the Braille Census and how you can take part is coming soon.
Connect with the RNZFB Redress Group
Your experience matters, and it deserves to be heard.
The Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind Redress Group is made up of people with lived experience, working alongside the Board to support redress work and bring forward people’s voices.
The group is here to listen with care and respect. If you would like to talk, you are welcome to reach out. Search RNZFB Redress Group on Google to visit the RNZFB Redress Group page on the Blind Low Vision NZ website, or call 0800 24 33 33 to connect with someone from the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind Redress Group.
If you would like a safe, individually tailored way to share your story, the government funded Survivor Experiences Service can help. Funding for the service has been extended until June 2028. They will help you relate your experiences, which can then be attached to any application for a claim against abuse.
Website: SurvivorExperiences.govt.nz.
Telephone weekdays: 0800 456 090 between 8:30am and 4:30pm.
Text: 8328.
Email: contact@SurvivorExperiences.govt.nz or records2@SurvivorExperiences.govt.nz for help with records queries.
Thumbs Up
Could a white cane help you?
It has been one year since Blind Low Vision NZ launched the White Cane Initiative, making it easier for more clients to access a white cane and the training to use it with confidence.
A white cane is much more than a mobility aid. It can help you detect obstacles, judge changes in the ground ahead, and move through your community with greater confidence and independence. For many people with no or low vision, it also helps others recognise that they may need a little more space or support.
You can learn more about the White Cane and how to access support on our website.
If you think a white cane could help you, our Orientation and Mobility Specialists can work with you to find the right cane and teach you the skills to use it safely in everyday life.
Every new financial year, full and partially eligible members can request one free white cane and up to two cane tips through the White Cane Initiative.
To learn more, or to request your white cane and tips, call 0800 24 33 33, text 022 011 7407, or email Info@BlindLowVision.org.nz.
You may also enjoy revisiting Jamie’s story on Blind Low Vision NZ Website, where she shares how learning to use a white cane changed her confidence and the way she moves through the world.
The Pearson Fund could help reduce your equipment costs
Assistive technology and equipment can be costly. The Pearson Fund provides grants to help people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision with the extra costs of eligible equipment and support items.
You can also use a Pearson Code when purchasing eligible items from the Vision Store:
- PEARSON for 25% off purchases over $500.
- 50PEARSON for 50% off purchases up to $500.
If you need new equipment, find out if you’re eligible for support and how to apply on the Blind Low Vision NZ 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.
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.
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.
You’ll find listings of audio described programmes for this week on the Able website or via TIS Menu 6607.
Community Bulletin
Bay of Plenty: New Hāpai Aquatic Membership introduced
A new accessibility initiative has been announced in the Bay of Plenty, with Bay Venues, Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council introducing the Hāpai Aquatic Membership from 1 July 2026.
The membership is available for Hāpai Access Card holders and is intended to support access to aquatic facilities for people with access needs. Existing disability membership holders will have time to transition to the new membership option, with free access continuing during the transition period from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027.
The Hāpai Access Card helps people communicate their access needs without having to explain them each time. It is recognised by many organisations across Aotearoa, making it easier to access services and take part in everyday activities.
Bay Venues has also shared that its staff will complete Hāpai Accessibility Training. This training will help staff better understand people’s access needs and provide a more welcoming and accessible experience.
To learn more about the Hāpai Access Card or the Hāpai Aquatic Membership, including eligibility, how to apply, and any fees, call Bay Venues on 0800 229 836 or email Info@BayVenues.co.nz.
You can also learn more on the Hāpai Access Card website.
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.
Upcoming events
Napier: Try Before You Buy at Our Napier Demonstration Day
Are you curious about products that could make everyday life a little easier?
Join our Equipment Solutions team in Napier for a free Demonstration Day, where you can explore a range of Adaptive Daily Living products available through the Vision Store. This is a great opportunity to see, touch and try selected products before deciding whether they are right for you.
Products on display will include the Uccello Kettle, Talking Microwave 2.0, Talking Tape Measure, Accessible Radio, Plate Guard, Finger Grip Palm Peeler and more.
This is an informal drop in event, so you are welcome to arrive at any time during the session.
Date: Thursday 27 August 2026.
Time: 10 am to 1 pm.
Venue: CCS Disability Action, corner of Station Street and Munroe Street, Napier. Please use the Munroe Street entrance.
Please note that products will not be available for purchase on the day. Individual consultations and equipment assessments can be arranged separately if required.
We look forward to having you there.
Work Ready Webinar: Discover how Workbridge can support your employment journey
Looking for work or thinking about your next career move? Join us for our next Work Ready Webinar on Tuesday 11 August at 9 am to learn how Workbridge helps people across Aotearoa find meaningful employment.
Workbridge works with jobseekers, employers and workplaces to create employment opportunities and provide ongoing support. During this webinar, you’ll learn what Workbridge offers, who can access its services, and how it supports people to build confidence and succeed in the workplace.
We’ll cover:
- Who is eligible for Workbridge services.
- The support and services available.
- Real examples of people who have been supported into employment.
- A live Q&A session.
Join us live on Zoom: Tuesday 11 August at 9 am.
Work Ready Webinar Recordings & Resources
If you can’t make a live webinar, don’t worry. You can explore recordings from past Work Ready webinars covering a range of useful topics. Listen to Work Ready Webinar Recordings at your leisure on the Blind Low Vision NZ website.
Ask Me Anything
You’ve told us that better communication matters – and we’ve heard you. This is your direct line to 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.
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.
Surveys and Research
Blind Low Vision NZ shares research relevant to the blind, deafblind, 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 about air travel: consumer NZ wants to hear from you
Have you experienced a delayed or cancelled flight, lost luggage, or another issue when travelling by air?
Consumer NZ has launched a new Flight Complaints portal to make it easier for people to share their experiences.
The information collected will help Consumer NZ identify issues faced by air travellers and build the evidence needed to advocate for stronger passenger rights and greater transparency from airlines about what support and compensation people are entitled to.
If you’ve had a recent airline issue, you can help by sharing your experience.
You can submit your feedback through the Consumer NZ Flight Complaints portal or learn more about your passenger rights.
News from the Royal New Zealand Foundation of The Blind (RNZFB) Board
Update from the RNZFB Board Chair
Thank you to our Tauranga team
The Board visited the Blind Low Vision Tauranga office in July for a tour and met with staff over morning tea. Thank you to the Tauranga team for the warm welcome and for taking the time to meet with the Board.
Chair’s Newsletter
The latest Chair’s newsletter is now available, with a lot more detail on Board decisions and activities from our 4 July meeting. You can check it out on the Blind Low Vision Governance webpage, and on the Telephone Information Service at option 3, 1, 1.
Meet RNZFB Board Chair Donna McCaskill
Want to know more about the future direction of Blind Low Vision NZ?
In this recorded webinar, RNZFB Board Chair Donna McCaskill shares her personal journey, the experiences that shaped her leadership, and her vision for the future of the organisation. She talks about the priorities that will help guide Blind Low Vision NZ in the years ahead and how the Board works to ensure the organisation continues to meet the needs of people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision.
You’ll also hear Donna respond to a range of questions about the organisation’s future, strategic priorities, and the important role Blind Low Vision NZ plays in supporting and advocating for our community.
If you’d like to better understand where Blind Low Vision NZ is heading and the thinking behind its future direction, this recording is well worth listening to.
You can listen to Board Chair Donna McCaskill’s full presentation on YouTube.
Recent highlights
Client Reference Group
The Client Reference Group has been appointed, with 7 client members representing a range of ages, locations, skills and service experiences. The group will provide another way for clients and members to contribute to the development and monitoring of services, helping bring lived experience closer to the decisions that affect services. The first face-to-face meeting is scheduled for 20 August.
Policy and Advocacy
The Board discussed the policy and advocacy work underway, particularly in Wellington, and acknowledged the positive impact this work is having.
IDI Employment Research
The next round of IDI work is underway, with a focus on employment research. This builds on the work undertaken last year and aligns with current and upcoming activity, including engagement with Whaikaha on employment related matters.
Youth Council
The Board was pleased to note the progress being made in establishing the new Youth Council. Members of the Council will come together for a two day in-person hui in Auckland in July.
Youth Reconnection Programme
The Board was pleased to note that a Youth Reconnection Programme is being undertaken with the Contact Centre to support higher levels of engagement with youth.
Constitution Review
Following Simpson Grierson’s review of the RNZFB Constitution, a consultation paper is being prepared for circulation to members and stakeholders.
The consultation will focus on recommendation three, including possible voting options and the Board’s preferred option. Members will be invited to consider whether the proposed options are appropriate and to provide feedback.
Members are encouraged to review the consultation proposal and provide feedback.
RNZFB Board of Directors meeting in Auckland
The next RNZFB Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled for Saturday 19 September 2026 in Auckland. If you would like to attend this meeting as an observer, please contact the Board Secretary BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or phone the 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 minutes of the 4 July Board meeting are available. If you require a copy of any of our minutes, please email the Board Secretary BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or phone the Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33. The Board meeting minutes are also available on the telephone information service, option 3, 1, 3.
Meet and Greet Event in Auckland
The next RNZFB Board Meet and Greet event is set to take place after the RNZFB Board meeting on Saturday 19 September in South Auckland, in the Recreation Centre. The session will run from 1pm to 3pm 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 Blind Low Vision NZ’s Chief Executive Andrea Midgen.
If you want to attend, please RSVP via email to BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or phone the Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.
RNZFB Board Elections 2026
Key dates to pencil in your diaries:
- 28 August: Call for nominations for director dispatched.
- 25 September: Nominations for director close.
- 28 September: Announcement of Candidates standing in 2026 elections.
- 16 October: Voting papers and Notice of AGM sent to members.
- 13 November: Closing date of ballot for directors.
- 21 November: Annual General Meeting in Dunedin.
If you would like more information about Board elections, becoming a director, the Constitution or the voting process or timeline, please contact the Returning Officer BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or phone the Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.
Information Evening for Prospective Board Candidates – Monday 24 August
The Board will hold a Candidates Information Evening on Monday 24 August for those interested in standing in this year’s Board Elections. If you are interested in standing for the Board and you would like to attend this event, please RSVP via email to BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or contact the Blind Low Vision NZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.
Chair’s Award
The Chair’s Award is presented each year at the AGM. The award is for a blind, deafblind, or low vision client who has demonstrated an outstanding level of achievement in any field of endeavours. The award comprises a trophy to be held for one year, a framed certificate, and $1,000.
If you have someone in mind who would be a worthy recipient, please provide your nomination with supporting information to the Board Secretary at BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or by phoning 0800 24 33 33.
Independent Review of the RNZFB Constitution
To request a copy of the Simpson Grierson report, please phone the contact centre on 0800 24 33 33 or by emailing the Board Secretary at BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz.
Donna McCaskill
RNZFB Board Chair
In the News
- Total Mobility subsidy cut leaves Bay of Plenty users fearing isolation
Learn about concerns over proposed Total Mobility funding cuts and how they could affect independence at NZHearld.co.nz.
- Accessibility Standards Bill creates opportunity for more accessible New Zealand
Explore what the proposed Accessibility Standards Bill could mean for accessibility and inclusion across New Zealand at NzDoctor.co.nz.
- How Auckland is making public spaces more inclusive
Read the article to discover eight ways Auckland Council is making parks, playgrounds, community facilities, transport and public spaces more accessible and inclusive at OurAuckland.AucklandCouncil.Govt.nz.
- I’m narrating the Samoan Bible into an audiobook for the blind – here’s what it’s like
Find out more about the Samoan Bible audiobook via NZ Herald.co.nz
Job Opportunities at Blind Low Vision NZ
For the latest job opportunities at Blind Low Vision NZ, go to the Blind Low Vision NZ Careers website or call TIS m 3 4 6.
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.