A recent collaboration between Blind Low Vision NZ, Re-Source and Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Wānanga Whare Tapere o Takitimu has highlighted a powerful model of community support and sustainability in the Hawke's Bay region.
The thoughtful decision by Blind Low Vision NZ to donate surplus furniture demonstrates a commitment to positive community impact that extends far beyond a simple act of giving.
The initiative unfolded as Blind Low Vision NZ prepared to relocate to new premises at 77 Raffles Street, Napier. In line with a conscious effort to minimise waste and ensure valuable items continued to serve the community, the organisation partnered with Re-Source to find new homes for useful items.
Through this partnership, a beautiful glass display cabinet was one of the items from Blind Low Vision NZ's former office. It found a new and appreciative home at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Wānanga Whare Tapere o Takitimu. As a Re-Source partner, the kura will make good use of the cabinet, ensuring its continued value within the community.
This single act of donation encapsulates a multi-layered positive impact that resonates with the core values of all three organisations and serves as a poignant example for the wider community.
For Re-Source, this collaboration is a testament to our mission of fostering a circular economy in Hawke's Bay. By diverting a quality piece of furniture from the landfill and placing it where it's needed, we've not only prevented waste but have also supported another vital community organisation without them incurring a cost. This aligns with our work to actively connect surplus goods with individuals and groups throughout the region.
For Blind Low Vision NZ, donating surplus furniture and other items to Re-Source wasn't just about clearing out the old office. It was about doing what's right – making sure useful items go on to support others. People who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision are part of strong, caring communities, and Blind Low Vision NZ works to support the wider community too. This approach to the office move shows how even practical decisions can reflect a deeper sense of purpose.
For Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Wānanga Whare Tapere o Takitimu, the receipt of the display cabinet is more than just acquiring a piece of furniture; it represents a tangible connection to a network of community support. It allows the kura to prioritise its resources, secure in the knowledge that its community partners are invested in its success.
This story of the glass cabinet is a microcosm of the interconnectedness and collaborative spirit thriving in Hawke's Bay.
It's a clear illustration of how thoughtful decisions about resources can ripple outwards, strengthening the fabric of the community, promoting sustainability and ultimately, making a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
Blind Low Vision NZ is a charity dedicated to empowering Kiwis who are blind, deafblind, or living with low vision, helping them live the life they choose. Many people believe that blindness, deaf blindness, or low vision are rare conditions that only affect a small number of people. However, these conditions are more prevalent than most people imagine. The reality is that anyone can experience vision loss, either personally or through a loved one, at any point in life. Blind Low Vision NZ work to raise awareness, drive change, and make sure people with sight loss have the same opportunities as everyone else.
In Napier and across Central Hawke's Bay, Blind Low Vision NZ supports people in their homes and workplaces, making a real difference across our region.
They offer a wide range of services, including:
Daily-living and mobility training.
Guide-dog services.
Employment and youth pathways.
An accessible library of over 38,000 Braille and talking-book titles.
Technology assistance
Peer support, emotional wellbeing support, and targeted services for Māori, Pasifika, and young people.
Website: blindlowvision.org.nz
Phone: 0800 24 33 33
Napier Office: 77 Raffles Street, Napier South, Napier, 4110
Office hours: Monday to Thursday 9 am to 2:30pm