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Monday 8:30am - 5pm Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm Thursday 8:30am - 5pm Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Blind Low Vision NZ

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Blind Low Vision NZ

We provide emotional and practical support, so that people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision can keep working and living independently.

Blind Low Vision NZ Community Guidelines

At Blind Low Vision NZ, we’re proud to foster a supportive, respectful, and inclusive community, both online and offline. We encourage open discussion and value your thoughts, experiences, and feedback. To ensure our spaces remain welcoming and safe for everyone, we ask that all participants follow our community guidelines. Respectful and Inclusive Conduct
We believe in treating everyone with kindness and respect. Please avoid making comments or posts that are:

• Abusive, bullying, or threatening
• Use ablest language
• Racist, sexist, homophobic, or discriminatory in any way
• False, defamatory, or misleading
• Containing profanity or hate speech
• Off-topic, irrelevant, or spam
• Sharing confidential, personal, or sensitive information
Our Online Platforms

We want our online platforms to be safe and enjoyable for everyone. While we encourage discussion, any comments containing profanity, hate speech, bullying, or other inappropriate content will be hidden or removed. If an individual repeatedly posts comments that breach these guidelines, we reserve the right to remove or block that person from our page. We also follow the principles of the Harmful Digital Communications Act 2015 (New Zealand) and the policies of each platform we use. Posts that violate these standards will be reported and removed. Privacy and Security
To protect your privacy, please avoid sharing any personal or sensitive information in public comments or messages. For any personal matters or feedback, please contact us directly through our official channels. Representation and Feedback

We welcome constructive feedback and diverse perspectives. However, posts and comments made by members of the public do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Blind Low Vision NZ. If you see content on any of our platforms that you believe violates these guidelines, please report it to us so we can take appropriate action. Thank you for being part of our community and for helping us maintain a safe and respectful environment for everyone.

19/12/2025

Big woofs for the Class of December 2025! 🎓🐶

We are so proud to share that Kiro, Pyaar, Ralph, Reese, Ricki, Robyn, Sara, Scout, and Thatcher have officially graduated and are now qualified guide dogs. Each one ready to begin an incredible new chapter alongside their handler ❤️

A huge thank you to every puppy raiser and supporter who helped them get here, we couldn't do it without you!

19/12/2025

Our final Friday Floof for 2025 is here! Thank you for the love and support you’ve shown our guide doggies this year 💛

We’re taking a little break, but we’ll be back in January with even more of the floofiest, cutest pupdates yet! See you then! 🐾

[Image one] Bindy and Brian, two golden guide dogs, sit happily on a wooden bridge, smiling at the camera.
[Image two] Kiro, a black guide dog in training, lays on his bed in the Development Centre, he is looking at the camera whilst holding a trainers hand.
[Image three] Brian, a golden guide dog in training, looks up at the camera whilst resting in the library.
[Image four] Bindy, a golden guide dog in training, naps in the footwell of the guide dog van.
[Image five] Sara, Verona and Trinity, three black guide dogs, peek out of the guide dogs van after a swim.
[Image six] Thatcher, a golden guide dog in training, lays on his back on his bed, whilst looking at the camera.
[Image seven] Bindy, a golden guide dog in training, stands on some grass whilst smiling at the camera on a sunny day. Her ear is flapping in the wind.
[Image eight] Sara and Venice, two guide dogs, play in the enrichment area at guide dogs. Venice is jumping through the water, and Sara is sniffing around the grass.
[Image nine] Cooper, a golden guide dog in training, sits in front of a large Christmas display. There is a large green picture frame with the phrase "Season's Greetings".
[Image ten] Alex, Ali and Amy, three black guide dogs, sit happily with their tongues out, whilst sitting on a wooden bridge.

17/12/2025

On Tuesday the Government announced a cut to the Total Mobility Scheme subsidy from 75% to 65%. We are deeply concerned about what this decision and the proposed changes to the Scheme mean for disabled New Zealanders.

Although the Government describes these proposals, now open for consultation until March 22nd, as a way to “strengthen” the Scheme, the reality is very different. The changes would make the Scheme harder to access, reduce its usefulness, and require people with long-term disabilities to repeatedly prove eligibility.

Forcing people to continually re-verify permanent disabilities is costly, both for individuals and the Government processing these applications. This is not an efficient or responsible use of resources.

The proposal refers to providing “targeted support” for those who need it most, while also suggesting a cap on subsidised trips. This effectively decides how often someone can leave their home. The approach conflicts with the Enabling Good Lives principles of self-determination and mana enhancing, which Whaikaha says are “part of the whakapapa” of the refreshed Disability Strategy.

So who is this “strengthening” really for?

At the same time, the Government proposes expanding the Scheme to include ride-hail services like Uber. Yet guide dog handlers are routinely refused rides or charged extra “cleaning fees.” How will the Government address the widespread discrimination our community faces when these services don't mandate disability training?

We support the goal of strengthening the Total Mobility Scheme. But real strengthening means funding it through central government, rather than leaving councils to fill gaps. It means ending the post-code lottery that determines access. And it means enabling people to get to medical appointments, connect with their communities, and contribute to their local economies as often as makes sense for them.

Our community must stand together on this issue. Share this post, make a submission to the Ministry of Transport consultation, and let your voice be heard. Lets protect the voices and rights of our community!

16/12/2025

“But you don’t look blind.”

Our community hears this more than you’d think. Assumptions about sight, ability, and limitations often become the only thing people focus on, when there is so much more to a person than their vision!

Hear from Sam Smith, our incredible client and host of the Revision podcast, as he shares his experience with sight loss and the assumptions made about him 💛

12/12/2025

Love stories, news, or magazines? You can enjoy them all with just your voice!

Alexa makes it super easy to explore the Blind Low Vision Library NZ, stay up to date with the latest news, and discover books you’ll love. With hundreds of new titles this year and thousands more from around the world, there’s something for everyone.

Want to give it a go? Call 0800 24 33 33 or get in touch with your local Blind Low Vision NZ office and we’ll help you get started 💛

[Image one] Close-up image of an Alexa with a glowing blue ring, sitting on a white surface. A yellow text bubble with black bold writing asks: "Want to know our favourite way to stay connected? Meet our friend Alexa!"

[Image two] Yellow background with black text. Heading reads: "What is an Alexa?" Text describes Alexa as a voice-controlled smart speaker. Image shows a close-up of the Alexa. An orange speech bubble highlights that Alexa can read any book from the Blind Low Vision NZ Library aloud.

[Image three] Yellow background with black text. Heading reads: "What can Alexa do?" List with icons: Play books, newspapers, magazines, music or podcasts. Add things to your digital shopping list. Search anything on google. Check the weather.

[Image four] Yellow background with black text. Heading: "Explore the Blind Low Vision Library." Text describes the library's offerings (audiobooks, Braille, newspapers) and how Alexa provides easy access. An orange box includes the "Fun Fact! Did you know our accessible library has over 35,000 audiobooks?"

[Image five] Yellow background with black text. Text reads: "Ready to start listening? We help around 97 people every month get set up with an Alexa, many for the first time. To get started, contact your local Blind Low Vision NZ office."

12/12/2025

Happy Friday Floof everyone! Peep Sara holding Tyler’s paw in the first pic 👀

[Image one] Tyler, Vaitu, Sara, Verona, Robyn, 5 guide dogs in training, all sit for a group picture on the free run.
[Image two] Yakira, Yana, Yayla, 3 white guide dogs in training, all sit for a picture on the free run.
[Image three] Ice, a guide dog puppy in training, sits with a paper crown around his little face at the Blind Low Vision holiday party.
[Image four] Verona, a black guide dog in training, sits on her bed with a bone in her mouth, looking up at the camera.
[Image five] Brian, a golden guide dog in training, paddles in the water with a lifejacket on during his swimming lessons.
[Image six] Tilly, a doggy friend from Assistance Dogs, relaxing on the grass after a swim.
[Image seven] Yana, a cream coloured guide dog in training, tries to eat the water fountain in the enrichment area.
[Image eight] Zoey, a white guide dog in training, loafing on her bed with a blanket over her.
[Image nine] Tully and Vinnie, two guide dogs in training lay next to each other with a trainer on a bed. Tully is looking at the camera with a silly expression.
[Image ten] Uno, a caramel coloured guide dog, sits on his bed before bed time, looking up at the camera.

05/12/2025

To celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we’re taking a moment to highlight the rights that help support and empower our community 💛

Whether you know them well or you’re learning for the first time, these four guiding principles are a great place to start!

[Image one] An image of a smiling girl wearing glasses looking at an adult man, black bold text over a yellow text box reads: "Think you know your rights? Swipe to see the 4 guiding principles everyone should know!"

[Image two] A yellow background with black bold text reading: "1. Your right to choose and be independent. You have the right to make your own life decisions, what you buy, where you work, and how you want support, without being restricted or influenced because of your vision. Example: A medical document must be provided in a fully accessible format so you can read, complete, and give informed consent independently."

[Image three] A bright yellow background with black bold text that reads: "2. Your right to be treated equally. You have the right to equal treatment in all areas of life, from employment and housing to services. If you need a reasonable adjustment to participate, and it's not provided, your rights are being violated. Example: An employer must allow you the necessary extra time during a job interview to review materials or complete a task using your chosen adaptive technology."

[Image four] A yellow background and black bold text that reads: "3. Your right to support, respect and non-discrimination. You have the right to be treated with respect and kindness wherever you are, and to get the support you need to take part equally, without anyone discriminating against you. Example: Being valued and fairly rewarded at work for the expertise you bring."

[Image five] A yellow background with black bold text that reads: "4. Your right to be fully included. You have the right to be a vital, participating member of society. This covers political, civic, and cultural life, you should be able to enjoy and contribute to your community fully. Example: Being able to vote secretly and independently in an election, such as using a tactile template or a phone voting system."

05/12/2025

Happy Friday floof everyone! Check out what the pups have been up to this week 🐾💛

[Image one] Tyler, Scout and Robyn, three golden guide dogs, sit next to each other whilst smiling at the camera happily.
[Image two] Scout, a cream coloured guide dog, lays happily in bed with a blanket, whilst looking at the camera.
[Image three] Cam, a golden guide dog, sits in the blind low vision wash station with a towel wrapped around his head.
[Image four] Trish and Kiro, sit on a bed at guide dogs, watching a movie.
[Image five] Uno and Tui, two guide dogs, lay next to each other on a bed whilst looking at the camera.
[Image six] Trish and Vinnie, two guide dogs, are lying together on a bed with Vinnie resting his head on Trish’s back. Both are looking straight at the camera.
[Image seven] Tyler, a golden guide dog, sits at the bus stop whilst looking at the camera.
[Image eight] Verona and Vaitu, two black guide dogs, lay on the floor at guide dogs.
[Image nine] Robyn and Tyler, two golden coloured guide dogs, sit happily next to each other on a wooden bridge.

04/12/2025

Did you know that close to 900 million people volunteer around the world each year?
International Volunteer Day is a global celebration of the people who give their time, energy, and heart to support their communities.

“He waka eke noa”

We are all in this together.

At Blind Low Vision NZ, over 1,000 volunteers gift more than 1 million hours of their time each year — the equivalent of over 500 full-time roles. Every hour, every act of service, and every moment of kindness reflects this year’s theme: every contribution matters.
Because of our volunteers, people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision across Aotearoa can stay connected, build confidence, grow their independence, and feel part of a community that truly cares.

This is what community looks like.

So today, and every day, we want to say thank you to our Blind Low Vision NZ volunteers.
Thank you for your generosity.
Thank you for your compassion.
Thank you for being part of our shared mission.
Thank you for showing, in countless ways, that every contribution matters.

Image Description: A montage of four images that encapsulate the Blind Low Vision NZ volunteering spirit. Top Left: One of our volunteers, Pauline poses with, staff member Petronella after winning an award for her efforts. Top Right: A group of young Blind Low Vision NZ volunteers posing with collection backets smiling happily. Bottom Left: Our volunteer guide dog puppy raisers and dog boarders play an important role in the raising and training of Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dogs. Bottom Right: Volunteer Pauline receives her award from Volunteering Canterbury.

02/12/2025

We promise we’ve been good this year! Santa… we’ll be waiting 😉🎄

[Image description] A note on a mobile phone screen titled "Our Christmas Wishlist" with a list of seven points related to accessibility and safety in New Zealand, including: Guide dogs safe from roaming dogs, All websites meet New Zealand accessibility standards, Sound emitters in electric vehicles made mandatory, Footpaths kept clear of bins and e-scooters, Increased Total Mobility Scheme funding, and Equal employment opportunities for everyone in NZ.

01/12/2025

Wellington, it's your time to shine! 📢

On Tuesday 9 December the petition to save the Total Mobility Scheme is being handed over, and we need your support. Come and stand with us to show MPs that this issue matters to all New Zealanders 💛

Date: Tuesday, 9 December.
Time: 12:30pm.
Where: The Beehive, Wellington.

MPs, community groups, advocates, and our Blind Low Vision NZ Wellington Team will all be there! This is our chance to make our voices heard and influence the decision-makers. If you are in Wellington, please join us!

If you haven't already, sign the petition to save Total Mobility here: https://bit.ly/43zGpgL

[Image description] An exterior image of the Beehive in Wellington on a sunny day. A bright yellow text box with bold black text reads, "Join us at the Beehive!"

28/11/2025

Inclusion starts with education 💛

At our Schools Awareness Workshops, Tamariki get the chance to understand vision loss and connect with someone who has lived experience, like Nevé. These sessions give students a glimpse into what life is like for Kiwis who are blind or have low vision, and show them how small changes can make our communities safer and more inclusive.

We want to bring these workshops to every school across Aotearoa, tag your local school below and let us know where we should visit next! 👇

Address

Parnell

Opening Hours

Monday	8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 5pm
Thursday	8:30am - 5pm
Friday	8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+64800243333

Website

https://blindlowvision.org.nz/?utm_source=FB&utm_medium=organic, https://blindlowvision.org.nz/our-services/guide-dog-se

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Our Story

Every day, an average of six New Zealanders turn to Blind Low Vision NZ (formerly Blind Foundation) for support with sight loss.

Some are still reeling and are looking for emotional support; many want to find ways to remain self-reliant, to stay in work and get around independently. All want to find ways of doing the things that are important to them.

Blind Low Vision NZ is here to provide practical and emotional support, to advocate for inclusive communities and lead the way in vision rehabilitation.

Our vital work helping people with sight loss is only possible thanks to the generous support of the public.

19/12/2025

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