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ABC NZ
Association of Blind Citizens of New Zealand Inc.

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About the Association of Blind Citizens of New Zealand Inc (ABC NZ)

 

The Association of Blind Citizens of New Zealand (ABC NZ) is New Zealand's

  • Oldest advocacy organisation in the disability sector, (founded in 1945)
  • Largest, generic, blindness consumer organisation.

ABC NZ's Philosophy and Role

Our philosophy: "blind people speaking for ourselves".

Our role: to advocate on behalf of our members to:

  • Government.
  • Providers of blindness and disability-specific services (including Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind).
  • Providers of services where blind people have particular requirements that should be taken into account.

ABC NZ Structure

ABC NZ is governed by a Board which comprises:

  • National President - Clive Lansink
  • Vice-President - Geraldine Glanville
  • World Blind Union Representative - Martine Abel
  • Members at Large (up to seven positions): Dave Allen, Linda Beck, John Corder, Geraldine Glanville, Jonathan Godfrey, Lynette Simon, Teri McElroy

Members of the Board are elected by the national membership via ballot, and hold two-year terms.  The election of National President, and four Member at Large positions occurs in odd-numbered years; the election of World Blind Union Representative and three Member at Large positions occurs in even-numbered years.  Positions for election in 2008 include World Blind Union Representative (Martine Abel), and Member at Large positions held by Jonathan Godfrey, Lynette Simon and Teri McElroy.  

The Board is tasked with interpreting and implementing Association policy, and developing strategic direction for the organisation. Policies are established by resolution of the Association's annual national conference.

ABC NZ National Office and Branches

The ABC NZ has:

  • A National Office located in Wellington.
  • 15 geographical  branches around the country.
  • Special Interest Branches established from time to time.

Categories of Membership

  • Full membership: open to anyone eligible for registration with the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind.
  • Junior membership (up to 16 years).
  • Associate Membership: for sighted individuals (friends, family etc), who support the Association's philosophy and work.

For membership details or an application form, go to Join ABC NZ.

 

  

About This Site / Contact Us / Feedback

ABC NZ National Office, 113 Adelaide Road, Newtown, Postal address: PO Box 7144
Wellington South, New Zealand. Phone + 64 4 389 0033 Email: enquiries@abcnz.org.nz

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