A mobile eye unit is coming to South Island. Credit: Sophie Piearcey

Blind and Low Vision NZ (BLVNZ) and Rotary have kicked off a fundraising drive for a South Island mobile eye unit, with an initial donation of $10,000 pledged by Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger.

Early detection and screening are key to prevent vision loss, so the aim is to have the mobile unit on the road by mid-2024 to offer rural communities free eye health checks and raise awareness of the importance of eyecare, said John Mulka, BLVNZ CEO. “Far too many times we have heard from our clients that had they received regular eye examinations, their personal experience (would have been better) and requiring the services of Blind Low Vision NZ may have been prevented. We believe it’s also an important initiative supporting our strategy of raising public awareness of eye health and increase brand recognition of Blind Low Vision NZ.”

Once funds are raised, there will be an initial pilot programme in the South Island, with a view to then expanding it, said Christchurch-based BLVNZ relationship manager Regan De Burgh, who is spearheading the project. “I’m passionate about this service as it breaks down barriers and gets us to the heart of communities, to the people who need our help. Covid taught us people won't travel to get vaccinated, we had to take the vaccine to the people, and this model works on that same premise.”

Low-vision optometrist and Rotary member John Veale, who’s been pushing for this for a long time, said he is pleased the project is finally off the ground, although it has some way to go yet. Rotary is seeking to raise more than $350,000 by the end of 2023 to cover the costs of the mobile unit and the equipment needed. Operational costs, including a salaried optometrist, will initially be covered by BLVNZ, said De Burgh. “The joint venture with Rotary goes beyond fundraising as there are synergies between Rotarians and the people we're trying to reach, so it's a nice match.” As well as Rotary’s 61 South Island clubs, there are also discussions with local iwi about providing community eye health checks at maraes, she said.

Initial talks with Christchurch-based Jayco, a company with experience in customising motorhomes for other charities and business needs, are also taking place. “A motorhome is a practical solution as it can travel around the South Island in all conditions and is easy to manoeuvre and park so we can be in locations where our services are needed,” said De Burgh. The customised motorhome will have a fully equipped optometrist’s office on board with room for a support person to sit, plus a kitchenette for tea and coffee.

For more about the Southern mobile unit or to donate, contact Regan De Burgh on rdeburgh@blindlowvision.org.nz