In our December Focus issue, we began promoting information in preparation for our 2026 AGM and Conference event. We aim to keep you updated via each of our Focus Issues as well as through our E-Bulletins for those on email, and our TellMe Bulletin, which will shortly be back up and running.

We hope that you will already have put the dates into your calendar as a placeholder, and that you are considering joining us. Registration costs (accommodation and all meals) will be finalised by the end of March (this month). Arrival for most will be Thursday, 8 October, ready for either the side events that day, and | or the 9am start on Friday, 9 October. Then we work through to around 5pm on Saturday, 10 October, finishing with award presentations during the Conference Dinner that evening.

There is a hint of our theme ‘Times are changing – Are we surviving or thriving?’ in the President’s contribution. You may recall mention in the December issue that this year’s theme in part stems from the declining rate of Ordinary financial Members, and what Blind Citizens NZ needs to do to remain relevant and sustainable into the future. Key to the Board’s thinking is shaping Blind Citizens NZ’s next Strategic Plan. It gave significant attention to this topic during its February 2026 meeting. Although the Strategic Plan will likely be finalised before this year’s AGM and Conference, member input when the draft becomes available is paramount. It will, of course, be a discussion topic during the AGM and Conference.

Our Southland Branch has established an excellent relationship with the Invercargill Council through its ongoing advocacy and submissions on local issues. Mindful that this is where we will be (staying at the Ascot Hotel), this paved the way to extend an invitation to Mayor Tom Campbell. He has welcomed the opportunity and will be opening our event. The Mayor, along with some of his colleagues, may well join us at different times throughout the two days.

The Board anticipates confirming its decision about the Thursday, 8 October side events by 30 May. We know how important it is to have this information early, as it assists with travel arrangements.

Registration costs will be shared with Branches, Geographical and Special Interest Networks and publicised on our TellMe Bulletin and other organisational social media, once finalised.You can also check in with our National Office for information at any time.