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Kōrero: June 2025

Kua tau ngā purapura a Matariki ki te whenua, kua huihui ngā iwi i te pūmahana o te Kotahitanga me te aroha.

The frost and snow of Matariki is upon the land, and the people have converged in unity and love.

This whakataukī reminds us that Matariki is a time for reflection, connection, and new beginnings. May this season bring you warmth, unity, and hope.

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

Message from Andrea

I’m pleased to share that Natasha Mackie will be joining us on 2 July as our new General Manager, Client Services. Natasha comes from Auckland City Mission where she’s been GM of Housing, and before that, spent over a decade at Napier City Council leading their community strategies. She brings a wealth of experience across government, not-for-profit, disability and community housing sectors – and a strong track record of leading high-performing teams. We’re looking forward to welcoming her.

We know how important guide dogs are — they’re more than companions. For many people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision, they make it possible to move through the world with confidence and safety.

Turning to another important area of our work, there’s been a rise in roaming dog attacks. This is putting both guide dogs and their handlers at serious risk. It’s not just about safety today — it affects the future of our guide dog service.

That’s why Blind Low Vision NZ is speaking up. We’re calling for stronger protections and more public awareness. We’re pushing for action that helps keep you and your guide dog safe.

We’re also encouraged by some of the work already happening. In Auckland, for example, the Council has launched a free dog de-sexing programme in high-risk areas. It’s a good step, and we hope to see more across the country.

We’ll keep you updated as this work continues. Your safety and your guide dog’s wellbeing will always be our top priority.

Ngā mihi,
Andrea Midgen

Thumbs up

White cane initiative starts 1 July

From 1 July 2025, all Blind Low Vision NZ members can receive one white cane and up to two cane tips per year, free of charge.

If you’re new to using a cane, don’t worry, you can have an Orientation and Mobility assessment first. The right cane will be sorted for you after that.

This new initiative is all about helping you feel more confident, safe, and independent. To request your cane and tips, you can:

This initiative is fully funded by Blind Low Vision NZ and will be reviewed each year.

Wrapping up the Big Shout-Out – Celebrating Our Volunteers

This June, we’ve been shining a spotlight on the incredible volunteers at the heart of Blind Low Vision NZ. From puppy boarders and Telefriend callers to accessible formats champions and companions and community groups, these generous people give their time, energy, and heart to support our community.

As the Big Shout-Out draws to a close, we want to say a big thank you to each and every volunteer. Their contributions make a real difference in the lives of their fellow Kiwis.

Want to read more? We’ve been sharing volunteer spotlight stories throughout the month. You can find all our volunteer spotlights on our website.

We hope these stories leave you feeling as inspired as we do.

New Partnership Expands Inclusive Football Opportunities

Blind Low Vision NZ has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Wellington Phoenix FC and Lower Hutt City AFC to deliver monthly Blind Football sessions in the Hutt Valley.

Starting 14 June, the sessions will run on the second Saturday of each month, from 11am to 12pm at Fraser Park’s indoor turf. This new initiative aims to create a safe and fun space for people who are blind or have low vision to stay active and connect through sport.

Jeremy Brown, our Sport and Leisure Advisor in Wellington, shared,

“Blind Football has kicked off in Wellington with support from Wellington Phoenix FC and Lower Hutt FC. It marks the beginning of an exciting new journey, full of accessibility, inclusiveness, teamwork, and that unbeatable football field buzz.

We’ll be bringing people together, building friendships, wellbeing, confidence, and most of all, having fun. From having a social kick with your mates to working toward the shared dream of reaching the Paralympics, this can now be a reality for Blind Football players in Wellington.”

If you are interested in taking part, email Jeremy Brown at JEBrown@BlindLowVision.org.nz or call 0800 24 33 33.

Need help or want to give feedback?

Compliments – compliments@blindlowvision.org.nz

Complaints – complaints@blindlowvision.org.nz

If you send a text and don’t get a reply, feel free to send another message or call us directly.

Functional Adaptive Movement’s AUT workshop: leading inclusive sport for all

Have you ever watched the Paralympics? They’re a powerful reminder that disability doesn’t limit the ability to be active. With a few thoughtful changes, we can open up sport and recreation to everyone – helping build confident, inclusive communities.

Recently, our Sport and Leisure team joined a hands-on workshop at AUT, led by Functional Adaptive Movement (FAM). This workshop showed how small adjustments can help make sport more accessible for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision.

It was great to see first-year AUT students learning about how to lead inclusive and adaptive sport sessions. Together, we’re helping build a future where more people feel confident and welcome in active spaces.

Want to know more about adaptive movement or joining local activities?
Get in touch with our Sport and Leisure team at Sport@BlindLowVision.org.nz.

New reading device now available to try in NZ

The OrCam Read Lite is now available to try in New Zealand.

This small handheld device helps people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision read printed text more easily. Just point it at the page, click, and listen as it reads to you out loud.

If you didn’t get a chance to try it at a demo day, you can still book a one-on-one session with an assessor. Just call us on 0800 24 33 33 to set it up.

There may be funding support available through the Pearson Fund. If you’re eligible, you can also get 25% off by using the code PEARSON at checkout. Find out more about the OrCam Read Lite on the Vision Store 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, 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 1pm to 4pm, 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

500 Liquid Level Indicators all given out!

We are excited to announce that all 500 of the Liquid Level Indicators we offered as part of our giveaway have now been distributed. We appreciate the wonderful response and are grateful for your participation. We hope you enjoy using the updated model to help with pouring drinks more safely and independently.

If you’d like to explore more accessible and helpful products, visit shop.visionaustralia.org.nz. For any questions, please get in touch at Shop@BlindLowVision.org.nz or call 0800 24 33 33.

 

Napier office has moved!

The Napier team is now all settled into their new home at 77 Raffles Street.

The upgraded space has been designed to feel warm and welcoming for both staff and people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. It’s been great to see the team enjoying their fresh start!

Napier office hours

Monday to Thursday, 9am to 2:30pm

Thank you for your support and patience during the move.

If you’d like to get in touch, you can call the Napier office on 06 835 3777, or contact the national team on 0800 24 33 33.

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.

This month, as we reach the halfway point of the year, we’re sharing helpful information from one of our Blind Low Vision NZ members. They recently discovered the IRD’s unclaimed money service and wanted to make sure other clients knew about it too.

Search IRD for unclaimed money

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) offers a secure online service where you can quickly and safely check for any unclaimed money. We’ve put together the information you need to help you claim what might be owed to you.

What is unclaimed money?

Unclaimed money is money that belongs to you but hasn’t been claimed for some time. This can include money from closed bank accounts, insurance refunds, bonds, or unpaid wages. If no one claims it, the money goes to Inland Revenue, but you can still get it back. You can learn more about unclaimed money on the IRD website.

How to claim through myIR

If you’d like to find out whether you have unclaimed money, follow these steps to make a claim:

  1. Log in to myIR, the online service on the IRD website.
  2. Click “I want to …” in the top menu.
  3. Select “Register a claim for unclaimed money”.
  4. Complete the form and submit it online.

When you search using the form, several names may appear even if you type your full name. The list usually shows the closest matches first like your full name or shortened versions for example Adam Smith or A Smith then other similar names on later pages.
If you need help, please call Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm:

  • 0800 775 247 for personal enquiries (within NZ).
  • 0800 377 774 for business enquiries (within NZ).

Upcoming events

Work Ready Webinar: Graduate Programme—8 July

Are you finishing your studies or recently graduated? Not sure what your next step might be?

Join our next Work Ready webinar at 10am on Tuesday 8 July, hosted by Sarah Mitchell, Head of Employment and Youth Pathways at Blind Low Vision NZ. You’ll learn more about Blind Low Vision NZ’s Graduate Programme. It’s a fully funded, 12-month opportunity to gain real-world experience, build your confidence, and take steps towards long-term employment.

This month’s session will guide you through how the programme works, who can apply, and what to expect. You’ll also hear from this year’s three Blind Low Vision NZ interns about how the programme has supported their professional journey.

What the session will cover:

  • What the Graduate Programme includes.
  • Who’s eligible and how to apply.
  • Success stories from past participants.
  • Time for your questions.

When: Tuesday 8 July, 10am to 11am.

To access the Zoom link, or if you have any questions, please call us on 0800 24 33 33 or email Sarah at SMitchell@blindlowvision.org.nz.

Recordings and Resources

Didn’t have time to join the webinar you were interested in? No worries, we’ve got you covered! From tech webinars and self-advocacy tips to vital support funds, you can explore a series of standout resources at your leisure. Find the ones that best suit your needs on the Resources page of the Blind Low Vision NZ website.

Auckland Local Elections Informational webinar

Local elections are coming up and we want to make sure everyone feels informed, included, and confident taking part. Join us on Thursday 10 July at 1pm for an accessible webinar co-hosted by Blind Low Vision NZ, Auckland Council, and the Electoral Commission to learn more about voting, standing as a candidate, and how it all works.

The session will include information about how local government affects your everyday life, why voting matters, and the support available to make voting and standing as a candidate more accessible for blind and low vision communities. There’ll be time for questions, and the webinar will be recorded for anyone who can’t join live. NZSL interpretation will be available.

When: Thursday 10 July, 1pm to 2pm

Where: Online via Zoom.

To access the Zoom link, or if you have any questions, please call Isabelle on 022 010 7628 or email at ICohen@BlindLowvVision.org.nz.

Office of the Ombudsman—Learning Session Webinar

The Office of the Ombudsman will be hosting a learning session on Wednesday 6 August at 1pm. This session is for anyone who wants to learn about who the Ombudsman is, what we do, and how to make a complaint to the Ombudsman. We will also talk about how disability rights impact the work we do at the Ombudsman.

If you are interested in learning how you can use the Ombudsman’s services, this session is for you! NZSL interpretation will be available.

When: Wednesday 6 August, 1pm to 2pm.

Where: Online via Zoom.

To access the Zoom link, or if you have any questions, please call Isabelle on 022 010 7628 or email at ICohen@BlindLowVision.org.nz.

Community Bulletin

 

Reflecting on Matariki 2025

Matariki rose on 20 June this year, marking the start of the Māori New Year.

The theme for 2025 was Matariki mā Puanga—a reminder that across Aotearoa, people celebrate in different ways. While many look to the Matariki star cluster, others follow the rising of Puanga. Both traditions hold deep meaning, and both invite us to pause and reflect.

Matariki is a time to remember those we’ve lost, celebrate the present, and think about the future. Whether you spent time with whānau, shared kai, or simply looked up at the stars, we hope the season brought you a sense of peace and renewal.

Though the date has passed, the spirit of Matariki continues. From all of us at Blind Low Vision NZ, we wish you light, connection, and strength as we move through the year ahead, together!

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.

Visit Able.co.nz for listings of audio described programmes for this week on the Able website.

Auckland Free Audio Described Film Event: Whau Pasifika 2025

Audio Described Aotearoa warmly invites you to Session Two of the PolyFilm Marathon, where both films will include audio description and be screened back-to-back.

Rites of Courage—a very short film exploring the Samoan tradition of tatau. Tinā—a powerful feature about a Samoan teacher finding her strength after loss.

When: Friday 4 July, from 11:30am (both films will be shown in the same session).

Where: The Hollywood Avondale, 20 Saint Georges Road, Avondale.

This event is free, but bookings are needed to reserve your seat and audio headset.

To book, call Nicola on 021 035 8513 or email Scheduling@AudioDescribedAotearoa.co.nz

1 million names in Braille—Country of the Month: Greece

This month at 1 million names in Braille HQ, our country of the month is Greece.

If you know one of the 9.94 million people in this South European nation who you think might like to receive their name in Braille for free, please send their name and postal address to Julie@ThatBlindWoman.co.nz.

In May, 339 names were written in Braille, bringing the total to 37,807. Names have now gone to 53 countries around the world—including Javier in Argentina, who received his name this month.

You can be part of this movement too. Help share the power of Braille by telling your friends and family, or by sending a name to Julie@ThatBlindWoman.co.nz.

2025 Parnell Homai Blind Get Together—Reunion Update

Calling out to all our community members! It’s still a few months away, but now’s a great time to start planning!

This is a wonderful opportunity for people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision to reconnect at the Homai and Parnell reunion. We’re excited to share some key updates (a sneak peek of the full details):

Where: Weymouth Cossie Club.

Address: 151 Sykes Road, Manurewa, Auckland 2103.

When: 31 October and 1 November 2025.

For the latest update on this reunion, please call our Telephone Information Service (TIS). TIS is free to all those registered with Blind Low Vision NZ. Check out the list of TIS numbers covering nearly all New Zealand on the Blind Low Vision NZ website. Once connected, press 5, then 4, then 2 to hear updates about the Parnell Homai Blind Get Together.

If you need to get in touch with Heywood, the organiser of this event, please call 0800 24 33 33.

The Blind History Lady: Edmund in OK, OK for Phillip

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—Edmund in OK, OK for Phillip. A story of independence, grit, and quiet leadership, discover how one blind man in early 1900s Oklahoma built a thriving business, shaped his community, and championed better services for others like him. This story shows that determination drives progress, and lasting impact comes from passion and persistence.

To learn more about Peggy’s work or to sign up for her email list, contact her at TheBlindHistoryLady@gmail.com.

 

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.

Share your story—help define Deafblindness in Aotearoa New Zealand

Kia ora,

Do you identify as Deafblind or have difficulty seeing and hearing?

Dr Sally Britnell and her team at AUT invite you to take part in a research project that aims to develop a New Zealand-specific definition of Deafblindness. Your voice will help shape services, policy, and recognition of Deafblind experiences, both in Aotearoa and internationally.

Who can participate?

Adults (18+) who identify as Deafblind (no formal diagnosis needed).

People willing to share their experiences in a supported, accessible interview.

What’s involved?

One interview (30-60 minutes) at the Deafblind Conference or another accessible time and location.

Communication support provided (e.g.NZSL, tactile signing, speech-to-text, Braille, Easy Read).

Why join?

Your insights will help create a culturally inclusive definition of Deafblindness for Aotearoa and contribute to the International Deafblind Identities Study.

Participants will receive a $50 gift voucher as a thank you.

To learn more or take part, please contact Dr Sally Britnell at 09 921 9999 ext 7539 or email Sally.Britnell@AUT.ac.nz. You can also reach Lisa Kelly, Research Assistant, at Lisa.Kelly@AUT.ac.nz.

Please let us know your preferred way to communicate (email, phone, text), and Dr Britnell’s team will send you more information.

Your story can shape the future—here in Aotearoa and worldwide.

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

Update from the Board Chair

Chair’s Newsletter

The latest Chair’s newsletter is now available, with a lot more detail on Board decisions and activities from our most recent meetings. You can check it out at the BLVNZ Governance webpage, and on the Telephone Information Service at option 3, 1, 1.

Spotlight on some recent highlights include:

White Canes initiative

The Board was pleased to approve a proposal that will see BLVNZ make white canes and tips available at no charge. Work is now under way to develop the final details and this important new initiative is to be launched in July. More information will be announced in due course.

Communications Survey

For some time, the Board and Management have been following a plan that we hope will improve and streamline communications throughout the organisation, including with clients. We’re about to take the next step in this plan, which is to carry out a comprehensive survey on this topic. This will help us ensure our communications are appropriate and give you the information you want to receive from BLVNZ.

External Review of the Constitution

We’re continuing to make progress towards the planned external review of the Constitution. I reported last time that we prepared a brief which we sent to several people who might be interested in leading this review. We have now completed interviews with the people we feel are most able to do this work and are now finalising the details of the review.

RNZFB Board of Directors Meeting

The next RNZFB Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled for Saturday 5 July 2025 in Dunedin. This meeting will be held at the BLVNZ Dunedin office. If you would like to attend this meeting as an observer, please contact the Board Secretary BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or phone the BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.

  • In accordance with the RNZFB Constitution, members and members of the public are welcome to observe at RNZFB Board Meetings in person, via teleconference or online, with the permission of the Chair.

The draft meeting minutes of the 3 May 2025 full Board meeting are available. If you require a copy of any of these minutes, please email the Board Secretary BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or phone the BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33. The Board meeting minutes are also available on the Telephone Information Service menu 3, 1, 3.

 

Meet and Greet Event

The next RNZFB Board Meet and Greet event is set to take place in Dunedin on Friday 4 July from 1pm to 3pm at the BLVNZ Dunedin office, where you will be introduced to the Board Members of the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind and find out more about the Board’s key priorities. You will also have an opportunity to raise any concerns or ask any questions you may have. And you will get to meet BLVNZ’s Chief Executive Andrea Midgen. If you would like to attend, please email the Board Secretary BoardSecretary@BlindLowVision.org.nz or phone the BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.

RNZFB Board Elections 2025

Key dates to pencil in your diaries:

 

  • 29 August—Call for nominations to stand as a Director.
  • 26 September—Last day for nominations.
  • 17 October—Voting packs circulated.
  • 14 November—Last day to vote.

Information Day for Candidates.

The Board will hold a Candidates Information Evening on Monday 28 July 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.

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 BLVNZ Contact Centre on 0800 24 33 33.

Updating RNZFB Board Election Voting Information

BLVNZ has been contacting all its registered voting members, particularly those who vote and receive information in large print. This is particularly timely, as NZ Post is increasing their postage prices by nearly 30% from July this year, resulting in substantial costs for the organisation.

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 and a framed certificate. At the May Board meeting, it was agreed to increase the winner’s monetary prize from $500 to $1,000.

Now is the time to start thinking 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.

Mandatory policies

The Board thanks everyone who contacted us with your feedback on the mandatory policies we are currently reviewing. We’re now considering your comments and in due course we will report back to you on our final decisions on these policies.

Clive Lansink

RNZFB Board Chair

Job Opportunities at Blind Low Vision NZ

The latest job opportunities at Blind Low Vision NZ are available on TIS m 3 4 6 and on the Blind Low Vision NZ 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.