John Billings with guide dog Yazz (left) and guide-dog-in-training Ollie (right)

Blind Low Vision NZ’s (BLVNZ’s) Guide Dogs programme will receive a donation for every pair of Shamir progressive lenses sold from 1 September to 31 December 2025 from Independent Lens Specialists (ILS) Shamir to help boost independence for people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision.

“At ILS Shamir, our mission has always been to help people see the world more clearly. But our commitment to vision goes beyond lenses; it extends to supporting those who navigate the world without sight,” said ILS managing director Glenn Bolton. “That’s why we’re proud to support BLVNZ and their incredible guide dogs programme. These highly trained dogs are more than companions, they are life-changing partners who bring confidence, mobility and independence to people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision.”

John Billings, one of New Zealand’s optical professionals, exemplifies this commitment in a truly special way, Bolton said. “Not only is John a skilled dispensing optician, but he’s also a dedicated puppy raiser and boarder. His passion for helping others see, whether through expertly fitted eyewear or through the trained eyes of a guide dog is an inspiration to us all.”

Billings spends his time outside the clinic working with future guide dogs, helping them develop the discipline, intelligence and calm temperament required to become trusted companions. His work bridges two worlds: the clinical precision of optics and the compassionate care of animal training, Bolton said.

“It’s incredibly rewarding. Knowing a dog I’ve helped train could one day change someone’s life in such an amazing way is what keeps me going,” Billings said.

BLVNZ said it costs over $175,000 to raise and train a guide dog in service. Since there’s no government funding, the programme relies on fundraising to help support the feeding, veterinary care, housing and the training of the young dogs, as well as the training of guide dog teams and their aftercare for the lifetime of the partnership.