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.

31/03/2026

The Government has announced that as of 1 June, the Latin alphabet will no longer be in use in New Zealand. All written communication will now be done in Braille.

Braille is a tactile system of writing that was developed by Louis Braille in 1824. This code is an important part of literacy for the blind, deafblind and low vision community. Blind Low Vision NZ supports this change as a way to keep Braille alive in Aotearoa New Zealand, and commends the Government for recognising its significance.

Some concerns have been raised by drivers on how they will be able to read street signs at a distance, given the necessity of being in close proximity to Braille to read it. To this, the Ministry of Transport has responded, “Well, with the cost of petrol right now, who wants to drive anyway?”

Bus companies throughout the motu have restated their commitment to having all bus drivers stop if they see someone waiting, regardless of whether they have been waved down. Holding firm to this policy will now be essential not just for our community, but for all passengers, as they will need to feel the Braille numbers to know if it’s the correct bus.

Concerns have also been raised about webpages being converted to e-Braille. This change means that from 1 June, a refreshable Braille display will be required to access all online material, including government websites – an item that can cost upwards of $3000. We are hopeful that Braille displays becoming more commonplace will help to drive the cost down.

Blind Low Vision NZ would like to remind employers during this transitional phase that they are legally required to make reasonable accommodations for their employees. For staff who struggle to read Braille, you must provide alternative formats or support your staff to access information in a way that works for them.

[Image description] A close-up photo of a person's fingers touching a page of raised Braille dots. Overlaid text on the left reads: "Braille announced as new official writing system of New Zealand." A thin vertical white line stands to the left of the text.

27/03/2026

Just a little TLC for some very hardworking pups 😌🐾

Our guide dogs in training were recently treated to massages from the amazing Rochelle at ... and as you can see, they took it very seriously.

Massage therapy helps keep them in peak condition by easing muscle tension, preventing injuries, and supporting their bodies as they grow and train. It also helps them relax and reset after all their hard work!

So yes, it’s adorable… but it’s also an important part of helping these future guide dogs feel their best 💛

[Image one] Venice a cream coloured guide dog in training, lays on a blue blanket whilst being massaged on the floor. Black bold text in a yellow text box on the left reads "The guide dogs discover massage therapy!".
[Image two] Valti a black guide dog in training, lies on their back soaking up a massage, with a big, happy smile on their face.
[Image three] Valti, a black guide dog in training, lies on their back while receiving a massage, legs sprawled in every direction and mouth open in pure happiness.
[Image four] Valti, a black guide dog in training, lays on their side sleepily whilst getting a massage.
[Image five] Vale, a black guide dog in training, lies on their stomach while getting a head massage, fast asleep.
[Image six] Vale, a black guide dog in training, lies on their stomach while getting a massage, eyes closed and mouth slightly open.

27/03/2026

Happy Friday Floof everyone! 🐾

We've had some wild weather at Guide Dogs this week, the pups were not impressed!

We had the very sweet J litter in for a day stay, and little Janie even lost a tooth (we’re still investigating whether the tooth fairy visits guide dogs!)

See you next week for more floofy updates! 💛

[Image one] Trish, a white guide dog in training, lies on her back in the freerun with her paws in the air and a happy smile on her face.
[Image two] Vale and Zeus, two black guide dogs in training, sit on their beds in the Development Centre wrapped in blankets while a movie plays on a TV in the background.
[Image three] Daystay pup Janie, a black guide dog puppy, sits on a forest walkway and looks at the camera with a little smile.
[Image four] Black guide dog puppy Janie sits in her room at the Development Centre with her trainer, who is holding a small tooth in her hand.
[Image five] Ella, a black guide dog in training, stands over the camera, like she's taking a serious selfie!
[Image six] Yumi, a golden guide dog in training, sits politely in the guide dogs office, looking at the camera.
[Image seven] Zeus, a black guide dog in training, sits on a large piece of mushroom patterned bedding in the Development Centre.
[Image eight] Xavier, a black guide dog in training, gallops through the freerun on a sunny day, ears flapping everywhere!
[Image nine] Elsie, a black guide dog in training, sits on the floor wrapped in a blue towel after a groom whilst looking at the camera very seriously!

26/03/2026

A little reminder that your generosity can go even further 💛

If you’ve made a donation of $5 or more to a registered charity in Aotearoa, you may be able to claim up to 33% back as a tax credit through IRD. And if you haven’t claimed before, you can go back up to four years!

It’s a simple way to get a little back, and if you felt like passing some of it on again, it could help support life-changing services for Kiwis who are blind, deafblind or have low vision.

Learn more via the link in our comment section!

[Image description] Yellow background with high-contrast black text and orange star accents. A black banner at the top reads "Did you know" in yellow font. Below this, black bold text reads: "You can claim up to 33% of your donations back as a tax credit through IRD?" At the bottom is a thick black horizontal line with a small orange circle.

25/03/2026

With the Government now ordering a full review of the Dog Control Act following a spate of horrific attacks, the message is clear: the status quo is failing our communities.

At Blind Low Vision NZ, we believe that every Kiwi should be able to walk their neighbourhood without fear. We support a total overhaul of the Dog Control Act to ensure councils have the tools they need to manage roaming dogs effectively.

We cannot wait for another tragedy.

We need:
✅ Consistent enforcement across all regions
✅ Stronger powers for local animal control
✅ A preventative focus on roaming dog populations

Join us: Write to the Minister for Local Government Simon Watts and demand a stronger Dog Control Act. We need an Act that gives councils the power to proactively protect their communities. Email Simon.Watts@parliament.govt.nz.

[Image description] A woman named Laura, wearing a rust-coloured sweater, leans down to embrace her black guide dog, Ryder, who is wearing a brown leather harness. Below them, a bright yellow box with black text reads: "Join the call for change. Tell your MP we need a well-resourced Dog Control Act."

24/03/2026

Caps off, tails up… they did it! 🎓 💛

Our March 2026 guide dog pups have officially graduated and we couldn't be prouder!

A massive shout out to our incredible puppy raisers. Thank you for every early morning, every muddy paw print, and the endless love and time you have invested. We couldn't do this without you!

Wishing each of these pups and their handlers all the very best as they begin this next chapter!✨

20/03/2026

For Kiwis like Ethan and his guide dog, Jack, a roaming dog is more than a nuisance, it’s a threat to their safety.

Ethan recently shared the frightening moment Jack was attacked by a dog off its lead. It only takes one incident to end a guide dog’s working life, taking away their handler's freedom, confidence, and independence in an instant.

This Guide Dog Puppy Appeal month, we’re asking you to help us make our streets safe for everyone. Here’s how you can help:
🐾 Check your fencing and keep your property secure
🐾 Keep your dog on a lead in public
🐾 Report roaming dogs to your local council

We also need your voice. Please write to your local MP and ask them to support strengthening the Dog Control Act so councils can proactively protect the community from roaming dogs.

A small action can make a big difference, share this post to help spread the word 💛

20/03/2026

Happy FriYAY! 🐾

This week’s Friday Floof features a very soggy Uno after a swim at the MPI pool, Vale having a blast with bubbles, and Yeti the giant polar bear getting a groom.

Same time next Friday? 💛

[Image one] Zola and Gigi, two guide dogs in training, sit in a grassy area whilst on a sensory walk. Both dogs are looking at the camera.
[Image two] Valti, a black guide dog in training, rests on a concrete path whilst on a walk. Valti is looking at the camera, smiling.
[Image three] Zeus, a black guide dog in training, sits in front of Vale, also a black guide dog in training, on the free run. Both pups are looking at the camera with their mouths slightly open.
[Image four] Uno, a golden coloured guide dog in training, swims in a small pool with a red life jacket on. He looks at the camera very seriously.
[Image five] Zola, a cream coloured guide dog in training, stands on a rock in a grassy area whilst looking at the camera.
[Image six] Vale, a black guide dog in training, stands in the Development Centre whilst licking a tap.
[Image seven] Vale, a black guide dog in training, stands in the Development Centre whilst licking bubbles in the air.
[Image eight] Vale, a black guide dog in training, stands looking directly at the camera.
[Image nine] Yeti, a white guide dog in training, stands in the guide dog wash station, covered in soap... and despair!

17/03/2026

Introducing our brand new kids’ fundraising challenge: Chores for Paws! 🦮🧽

This May, kids across Aotearoa are rolling up their sleeves and completing chores around the house to raise vital funds for guide dogs.

It’s a fun way for our tamariki to learn the value of giving back while helping raise the next generation of life changing guide dogs for Kiwis who are blind or have low vision.

A tidy house, motivated kids, and more future guide dogs in training, sounds like a win all round! 💛

Want to get involved? Here’s how you can help:
🐾 Sign your family up here: https://bit.ly/4sd4y6Y
🐾 Share this post to help spread the word!

[Image description] A guide dog puppy sits in a laundry basket full of towels against a bright yellow background. The "Chores for Paws" logo is at the top, with text reading: "Helping raise more guide dogs, one chore at a time." Animated icons of a sponge, a clipboard, and a cartoon dog face surround the image.

16/03/2026

What’s better than one litter announcement? Two litter announcements! 🐾

We’re excited to share that the J litter arrived back in October. Proud parents Dam Dotti and Sire Arlo welcomed eight pups into the world, four girls and four boys. One of these pups is being raised by Assistance Dogs NZ 😊

Then in February, Dam Judy had three pups. Sire Fonzy is dad to Lou (part of the K litter), and Sire Elvis is dad to Lulu and Leah.

It’s been a busy time at our Breeding Centre! Stay tuned to watch these little ones’ grow up! 💛

[Image one] A golden guide dog puppy named Jesse, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image two] A golden guide dog puppy named Joe, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image three] A black guide dog puppy named Jolie, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image four] A black guide dog puppy named Juno, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image five] A black guide dog puppy named Janie, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image six] A white guide dog puppy named Jasmine, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image seven] A cream guide dog puppy named Jeddah, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image eight] A black guide dog puppy named Lulu, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image nine] A cream guide dog puppy named Leah, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.
[Image ten] A black guide dog puppy named Lou, sits on a blue rug against a grey concrete block wall. The puppy is wearing a black training harness.

13/03/2026

The wait is over! Our Shining a Light on Blindness report is officially live 🎉

Our Policy and Advocacy team has pulled together national data to show how the life outcomes of Kiwis who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision compare with others in Aotearoa.

This data is a powerful tool for change. It highlights where our community needs better services and provides evidence to shape policies for a more inclusive future in health, education, and employment.

We are so excited to see what changes this information will bring! 💛

Check out the full report here: https://bit.ly/4r2P7x5

[Image description] Image of six Blind Low Vision NZ clients and two guide dogs standing together. Below, a large yellow curve with black bold text reads, "Shining a Light on Blindness: An Analysis of Outcomes for Working Age New Zealanders who are Blind and Visually Impaired."

13/03/2026

Friday Floof recap! Here’s what our guide dogs have been up to this week 💛

Zazu discovered bubbles for the first time, Yumi and Elsie have become roomies and besties, and Xavier and Yeti have been practising their chair targeting skills!

Hope you all have a great weekend 🐾

[Image one] Best friends, Tony and Uno, two guide dogs in training, play with a toy rope in the Development Centre. Both are looking at the camera with happy expressions.
[Image two] Vinnie, a black guide dog in training, rests in his room at the Development Centre with a bone in his mouth.
[Image three] Zazu, a cream coloured guide dog in training, sits on the ground in the Development Centre, surrounded by bubbles. He has a confused look on his face!
[Image four] Zeus, a black guide dog in training, lays on some new bedding in the Development Centre, whilst looking at the camera with a serious expression.
[Image five] Xavier, a black guide dog in training, rests his head on a chair whilst practicing chair targeting.
[Image six] Yeti, a white coloured guide dog in training, rests his head on a chair whilst practicing chair targeting.
[Image seven] Venice, a cream coloured guide dog in training, runs through the free run with her ears flapping everywhere.
[Image eight] New roommates and besties, Yumi and Elsie, rest in a crate for their midday nap.
[Image nine] Wren, a black guide in training, sits on her bed in the Development Centre whilst smiling at the camera.
[Image ten] Day stay pup Frida runs through the enrichment pool on a sunny day, smiling with ears flapping everywhere!

Address

Opening Hours

Monday	08:30 - 17:00
Tuesday	08:30 - 17:00
Wednesday	08:30 - 17:00
Thursday	08:30 - 17:00
Friday	08:30 - 17:00

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.