Kia ora Tatou,
Hello to all of us,
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Friend, also known to us as board Secretary
Top of the list this week is a heart-felt thank you to Sarah, Board Secretary and Administrator, for all that she has done for us. Sarah is resigning due to increasing work commitments in other areas and we understand this. Sarah will stay with us as we transition through to her leaving us before Christmas. Sarah, your experience, knowledge, willingness to learn about our accessibility needs, your dedication to our conferences, and your warmth to so many of us we acknowledge with gratitude.
Now I introduce to you aimee whitcroft, who will be facilitating this update to you every week. Haere Mai aimee! We know you have been handling the background work for our website update, soon to be completed, and now you are “front of house”!
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Deafblind Association NZ Annual general Meeting
This year our AGM will be held by Zoom. Please email Sarah if you would like to join at the address below.
boardsecretary@deafblindassociation.nz
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Paralympics 2024
Many of you will have been following the Olympics in your preferred formats. Are you ready for the Paralympics starting on 28 August? aimee has done some research about interesting accessibility, including tactile vests (I’m fascinated to learn about this) and who might be competing. My understanding is that there are noted to be two deafblind people hoping to compete but there is no update on whether they made it – let’s hope so. Sometimes it is simply that people don’t identify as deafblind even though having a dual sensory impairment such a as being registered for Blindness or Low Vision even though wearing Hearing Aids.
Paris 2024 Paralympic Games: 28 August – 8 September (International Paralympic Committee)
Below, we have added some links about the Paralympics that we found very interesting, and included in case you might too.
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Meet the NZ Paralympic Team
France is hosting its first Paralympic Games later in August of this year (opening ceremony on 28 August, and events starting on 29 August), and New Zealand is sending 25 athletes!
Meet our Paralympic athletes (NZ Paralympic team)
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The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games medals
“The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games medals embody French history and artistry. Each medal incorporates a piece of original iron from the Eiffel Tower, making them both symbolic and priceless.
“The front of the medal features a graphic representation of the Eiffel Tower viewed from below. To allow athletes to distinguish their medals by touch, the gold, silver, and bronze medals have distinct engravings and universal Braille, honouring Louis Braille, the French inventor of the Braille system.
Read more about the Paris Paralympic medals (International Paralympic Committee)
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Technology that will help blind and deaf followers at Paris 2024
“The inclusion of all fans in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is something very important and therefore the organization has provided all the necessary tools so that, in this case, blind and deaf people can attend all the events they wish and experience them with the same passion as the rest of the public.
“The organizing committee has installed the following gadgets so that this emotion reaches as many people as possible.”
Find out more about the gadgets and where they’ll be available (Sportsin)
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Blind football
Blind football is an adapted version of football for athletes with a vision impairment.
Find out more about this fascinating sport (Paralympics New Zealand)
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Access to Blind Low Vision NZ office out of hours
We have successfully negotiated access to offices. We can now start offering Peer to Peer Support gatherings in Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland so please do let us know if you are interested by replying to this email.
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Call for Abstracts: 17th World Blind Union Asia-Pacific Regional Massage Seminar
The Organizing Committee is honored to invite you to the 17th World Blind Union Asia-Pacific Regional Massage Seminar, scheduled for August 27-29, 2025, in Seoul, Korea.
Main Theme and Sub-themes
Main Theme: “Sharing Strategies for the Sustainable Development of Blind Massage in the Asia-Pacific Regions”.
Sub-themes
- Education and In-service Training for Blind Masseurs.
- Best Practices in the Management of Blind Massage Centres.
- Legal and Policy Issues Regarding Blind Massage in the Asia-Pacific Regions.
- Research Demonstrating the Effectiveness of Blind Massage.
We invite submissions of abstracts related to the four sub-themes mentioned above. Kindly adhere to the abstract submission guidelines provided below.
Key Dates
- Deadline for abstract submission: September 30, 2024.
- Notifications regarding the decision for presentation: October 31, 2024.
- Deadline for full paper submission: May 31, 2025.
Abstract Submission Guidelines
- Clearly specify the sub-theme your abstract addresses.
- Abstracts should be limited to 350 words, including the title and content.
- All abstracts must be submitted in English, in MS Word format, using Times New Roman, font size 14.
- No modifications can be made once the abstract has been submitted.
- Include the name of the author and any co-authors, along with their organization/entity and country/region of representation.
- Provide the author’s contact details: address, phone number, and email address.
- For scientific research, please organize the content as follows: Purpose and Research Questions, Method, Result, Discussion, Conclusion.
- For practical/clinical reports, please organize the content as follows: Objective, Practical/Clinical Report, Discussion, Conclusion.
- For presentations on development solutions, please organize the content as follows: Situation (focusing on raised problems), Solutions, Expected Results.
How to Submit
Submit abstracts and full papers via email to: both kbupoli1015@naver.com and kbupoli1015@gmail.com.
Please use the subject line: Abstract submission – (Name of country/region) -(Name of author).
Selection Criteria
- Quality and originality of the abstract.
- Methodology, results, main findings, and solutions.
- Clarity and completeness of the abstract.
- Relevance and importance of the abstract to the sub-themes.
- Practical observation results must include at least 30 subjects.
Notification of Decision
Based on the submitted abstracts, the Program Committee will select quality papers for presentation at the seminar. Notifications will be sent to organizations and individuals by October 31, 2025, via the contact details provided by the submitter.
Full Presentation Guidelines
- For presentations on development solutions: Limited to 1,000 words in English, with a maximum presentation time of 10 minutes.
- For scientific research/reports: Limited to 1,500 words in English, with a maximum presentation time of 15 minutes.
- Presentations should be combined with Power Point slides.
Contact
For questions and inquiries regarding abstract submission, please email us at: kbupoli1015@gmail.com.
WBUAP RMC paper abstract application form – 17th WBUAP regonal massage seminar 2025 (DOCX 117 KB)
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New managing stress urinary incontinence guides released
Kia ora koutou,
Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission with Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health have released two new consumer resources about managing stress urinary incontinence.
The Understanding and managing urinary incontinence and Surgery for stress urinary incontinence guides were developed to support women make informed decisions about treatment options, and can be downloaded in colour and black and white from the Health New Zealand website.
Developed by health care professionals and consumers, the guides include space for questions or concerns to be noted for discussion with a health care provider.
For more information, email info@hqsc.govt.nz.
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Women with Disabilities and Climate Change
The book “Women with Disabilities and Climate Change” comprehensively addresses how women with disabilities are disproportionately affected by climate change. The author, Loreto Brossard, emphasizes how conditions of poverty, stigmatization, and discrimination exacerbate the vulnerability of these women to natural disasters and adverse environmental conditions. The text highlights that due to their limited participation in decision-making and climate policy, the specific needs of these women are often overlooked, perpetuating their exclusion and increasing their risks.
The book delves into the specific challenges faced by women with disabilities, such as limited access to resources and healthcare services, physical and infrastructural barriers, and social discrimination. These factors not only hinder their ability to cope with and adapt to the effects of climate change but also exacerbate their risk of experiencing adverse impacts on their mental health and emotional well-being. The author stresses the importance of recognizing and addressing these barriers to ensure a more equitable and effective response to climate change.
Furthermore, “Women with Disabilities and Climate Change” proposes inclusive solutions ranging from public policies to community initiatives. The book highlights the need to develop accessible infrastructure, improve access to information and mental health services, and actively involve women with disabilities in the planning and execution of climate strategies. Including these voices is not only an act of social justice but also enriches responses with diverse and realistic perspectives, thereby promoting greater community resilience.
In conclusion, the book calls for a holistic and inclusive approach to combating climate change. By integrating the perspectives of women with disabilities and ensuring their rights and dignity are respected, we can build a more just and sustainable future. Brossard’s work is a valuable contribution that not only documents the challenges but also inspires concrete actions to ensure that no one is left behind in our global response to this crisis.
Book: Women with Disabilities and Climate Change (ONG Inclusiva) (PDF 900 KB)
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Braille Music Retreat 2025 Announcement and Application Form
If you have any questions or feedback, contact the team directly at the address below.
Can you read Braille Music? Did you read it once upon a time and would love the opportunity to dust off your skills and use it again? Do you enjoy singing in a choir and making music with like-minded musos? Are you able to care for yourself independently away from home? Are you 18 or over? If you answered yes to all of these questions, then the Braille Music Retreat could be for you.
The Braille Music Retreat is a weekend for Braille Music readers to come together, to share in the joy of music making, connect with old friends and make some new ones along the way. It’s also an opportunity for us to celebrate our unique identities as Braille music readers, promote Braille music as a valuable tool within the blind community, and challenge ourselves to explore and master an array of musical genres.
When: Evening of Thursday 16 January – afternoon of Sunday 19 January, 2025.
Where: BLENNZ Homai Campus, 2 McVilly Road, Manurewa, Auckland. All accommodation and meals available on site.
Cost: $250 NZD.
Application deadline: 4 October 2024. Late applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis, but please make every effort to complete your application on or before 4 October.
What’s the Braille Music Retreat?
Inspired by the National Braille Music Camp in Australia and BLENNZ immersion courses for school-age students, this weekend seeks to bring those of us who are kids at heart together to sing, jam, and generally have a great time. As a group, we will perform a selection of four-part choral works over the weekend. Preparation will consist primarily of full-choir rehearsals and is the main focus of the retreat. However, there will be opportunities for jam sessions and any other instrumental ensembles that might materialise. There will also be a recording session so that we have a keepsake from our weekend away.
Application from for Braille Music Retreat 2024 (Google Forms)
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Invitation to HDC Act and Code Deaf hui
Sunday 11 August 2024 3pm.
This video is an invite from HDC (Health & Disability Commissioner) to the Deaf community to be part of our Act and Code review.
Invitation to HDC Act and Code Deaf hui (Youtube)
The Health & Disability Commissioner Act (the Act) and the Code of Rights (the Code) promote and uphold people’s rights when they use a health or disability service. The Act and Code also enable people to make a complaint if they are unhappy about a health or disability service. The Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) is currently reviewing their Act and Code and want to hear from the Deaf community.
HDC is running an online session for the Deaf community to have their say at 3pm – 5pm Sunday 11 of August. If you’re interested in attending, please email us at review@hdc.org.nz or contact us via the relay service on 6448975955.
Find out more about the review (Health & Disability Commissioner Te Toihau Hauora, Hauātanga)
Access an NZSL version of the consultation document (Vimeo)
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August 2024 edition of No Labels
This edition of the show we have three guests.
Brad Cohen
Brad grew up in Sydney before studying at Oxford University, the Royal College of Music, and the Royal Northern College of Music. In the decades since, he has led many of the world’s leading orchestras, as well as founding several music tech start-ups.
Brad has conducted a wide-ranging repertoire at opera companies including English National Opera, New York City Opera, and Opera Australia. Brad was appointed General Director of NZ Opera in 2023.
Frances Moore
Frances Moore, NZ Opera’s Participation Manager, is also a director, producer, writer, and arts educator. She has previously collaborated with the New Zealand School of Music, Victoria University, Orchestra Wellington, and the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. Driven by a passion for making opera and classical music accessible to all, Frances is dedicated to breaking down barriers in the arts.
Paul Brown
And Paul Brown is a lifelong Braille user, a director of Audio Described Aotearoa and has worked with the opera since October last year to support the Braille surtitles work.
This edition of the show we learn more about the new technology making surtitles which are similar to subtitles accessible for the blind community when attending a show.
How surtitles work, and the benefits this technology can bring to Braille readers, screen reader users, and low vision users.
You can hear this edition of the show on Wellington Access Radio on Tuesday 13 August, just after 1:00pm, or the following Tuesday at the same time.
If you miss the scheduled show on your radio or via the live stream, you can check it out later online below.
No Labels (Wellington Access Radio)
Or you can subscribe to the show via your preferred podcast player to check out this and other episodes.
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Events
Auckland audio described performances for children, Mrs Wishy-Washy
If you missed the Audio Described Events booklet sent out at the beginning of 2024, here’s a reminder, forwarded from Anne Towns at Tim Bray Theatre Company. Please note changes to times and venues.
Mrs Wishy-Washy
By Joy Cowley.
Adapted for the stage by Tim Bray, Songs by Christine White.
Presented by Tim Bray Theatre Company, Auckland’s leading theatre for children.
“Oh, lovely mud!” exclaim Mrs Wishy-Washy’s farm animals Cow, Duck, and Pig. These beloved characters from Joy Cowley’s series of picture books are about to come to life in a hilarious stage performance. While the animals just love getting mucky, Mrs Wishy-Washy is determined to keep them spotless for the Big Farm Fair. In this funny farmyard adventure, audiences will be treated to comical chaos as Mrs Wishy-Washy attempts to give her muddy animal buddies a good scrub.
This tale teaches valuable lessons about determination, friendship and the consequences of one’s actions, while offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy some good, clean, laugh-out loud fun. Created for Ages 3 – 8.
When: Tuesday, 24 September. 9:20am touch tour; 10:30am, audio described performance.
When: Saturday, 28 September. 12 noon, touch tour; 1:00pm audio described performance.
Where: The PumpHouse Theatre, 2a Manurere Avenue, Takapuna.
Run Time: 60 minutes, no interval.
Discounted access tickets are available for blind and low vision audience members. Tickets are $28.00 (plus card and booking fees) , and a companion ticket is available at the same price for a support person or family member.
To book phone The PumpHouse Theatre 09 489 8360, or email info@pumphouse.co.nz.
After you book, email gail@timbray.org.nz to reserve your space on the Touch Tour and to book your headset.
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Other newsletters
Blind Sport NZ update: August 2024 (Mailchimp)
“In this newsletter: BSNZ Board Member Recruitment; BSNZ Annual report; ABSRC open day on 10 August; Blind/VI football programme in Christchurch; Para Cycling Have a go day Manawatu and Auckland; Amazing Race Rotorua; Freedom on the Slopes – Celebrating the Adaptive Snow Sports Weekend; Halberg Games South.”
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Seniors Newsletter: August 2024 (Te Tari Kaumātua Office for Seniors)
“In this newsletter, we have tips to help you avoid issues with insurance. There is information on how to update your client details and lifestyle factors that can reduce your risk of developing dementia.
“We also congratulate those awarded for services to seniors in the King’s Birthday Honours.”
Plus more!
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The D*List
The D*List website is an online culture magazine that creates space for disabled people to tell their own stories through features, columns and news reporting.
Link to weekly update below.
The D*List Delivered (Substack)
Following is a link to have a browse of The D*List website or sign up to receive their weekly newsletter.
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Be Seen be Heard be Connected Weekly Update
Please note, access to our weekly be Seen Be Heard Be Connected emails is also available on our website via our events page, at the following link.
News and events (Deafblind Association New Zealand)
Ngā mihi mahana,
Warm regards,
Amanda
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Event reminders
EGL – SAMS and Tama hui
28 August 10:00am – 2:00pm (venue in West Auckland to be advised).
Hui for for community-led disability leadership informed by the Enabling Good Lives approach. A smaller online hui, for the deaf community is proposed for 27 August 2024 6:00 -7:30pm. Register for either by emailing egl@sams.org.nz.
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The Wiggles’ Wiggle Groove Tour!
When: Saturday 28 September 2024 at 10am
Where: Spark Arena, 42/80 Mahuhu Crescent, Parnell, Auckland 1010.
Details were provided in 19 July update.
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Thursday 3 October Deafblind UK Online Conference 2024
Theme: “Standing out and fitting in”. The conference is free and all are welcome.
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DbI Asian Regional Conference Pokhara Nepal
1st to 3rd March 2025.
Deafblind International Notice of Asian Conference 2025
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Feedback requested reminders
National Housing Survey
The Urban Advisory longitudinal study so there is no foreseeable closing date. The survey asks how people make their housing choices and what they want to see happen with housing in the future, with the intention of helping New Zealand better respond to housing needs and demand.
Completed surveys are eligible for entry into a quarterly prize draw to win a $200 Prezzy Card. It is an online survey through Qualtrics and is expected to take less than 30 minutes to complete. Details were provided in 24 May update.
The website link below includes Frequently Asked Questions, an info pack and a contact email address.
New Zealand’s Housing Survey (The Urban Advisory)
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Public library use and accessibility
Blind Low Vision NZ Client Training and Engagement Senior Advisor Tom Smith asks: “Is there anybody willing to be interviewed about their use of public library services and accessibility?”
Details were provided in 14 June update, or email Tom.
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Ongoing events
2024 Audio Described Nationwide Events Booklet
The events list with booklet page numbers was provided in the 23 February update.
The full calendar is available as a word document via the following link.
2024 Events Information (DOCX 60 KB)
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No Labels on Wellington Access Radio
You can listen to this edition of the show on Wellington Access Radio on Tuesday just after 1:00pm, or the following Tuesday at the same time.
If you miss the scheduled show, you can check it out later online at the link below.
No Labels (Wellington Access Radio)
Or you can subscribe to the show via your preferred podcast player to check out this episode or previous episodes of the show.
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Living Blindfully
Weekly show hosted by Jonathan Mosen
Living Blindfully audio episodes (Living Blindfully)
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Blind Spot, Radio Southland
Monthly show hosted by Carolyn Weston
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Entertainment with Able
Able is a not-for-profit organisation working towards a more inclusive Aotearoa, believing everyone should be able to access news, entertainment and culture. Funded by NZ On Air, they’re Aotearoa’s leading provider of media access services, including captioning services, subtitling and audio description.
Listings are available at the following browser links.
A link to Able’s website to subscribe to the weekly newsletter with listings and picks of the week follows.
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Deafblind Association New Zealand access to TellMe
See TellMe numbers for your area
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End of report and this week’s update.
Amanda Stevens
Executive Officer
Taringa Turi Kāpō Rōpū
Deafblind Association New Zealand