As we each reflect on the past year, there will be highs and lows. While this will always be the way it is, because that is life, hopefully, we will each find some truly positive moments and outcomes that motivate us as we move forward into 2026.

Blind Citizens NZ works across so many issues, advocating for the removal of barriers and challenges that impact the lives of people who are blind, deafblind, low vision and vision-impaired, and we do make a blind bit of difference. This is not about self-praise, but rather reflecting on, and bringing to the fore, the positive feedback we hear from those with whom we work. This includes comments offered by presenters during this year’s AGM and Conference.

Remember the Board’s request slotted in the item about next year’s AGM and Conference, for Blind Citizens NZ members to provide thoughts and ideas, etc, for it to consider.

Bringing our final Focus for 2025 to a close, Blind Citizens NZ Board and staff take this opportunity to wish you and yours seasons’ greetings. Our National Office closes at noon, Monday 22 December 2025. We reopen on Tuesday, 20 January 2026. In between times, and although on annual leave, the Chief Executive remains available for emergencies. Stay safe, and we look forward to engaging and | or working with you in 2026.