Auckland, 2 October — As cost-of-living pressures dominate headlines, data from Blind Low Vision NZ reveals how blind, deafblind, and low vision New Zealanders are disproportionately affected, facing not only higher costs but also the emotional strain of barriers most Kiwis never encounter. Blind Low Vision NZ clients report skipping GP appointments because travel is unaffordable, and delaying treatment because forms and health information aren’t available in formats they can read. For Blind Low Vision NZ clients, 51% of working-age members are without a job, and 74% of youth clients have never had a part-time or summer job. “With 80% of our income coming from donations, community support is critical,” says Bernadette Murphy, Head of Fundraising, Blind Low Vision NZ. About Blind Low Vision NZBlind Low Vision NZ empowers New Zealanders who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision to live life on their terms.