2025 Parliament meet up forefront Sam Uffindel, MP, Brandon Ah Tong, International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness Western Pacific Region chair and Dr Justin Mora, National Eye Health Clinical Network co-leadbr /br /

Eye Health Aotearoa (EHA) will bring eye health to the heart of New Zealand decision-making through its Parliamentary Friends of Eye Health event on 21 July, ahead of the general election.

Hosted by Sam Uffindell MP and Dr Ayesha Verrall, the event aims to elevate vision care as a national priority, EHA said. The programme will feature keynote Associate Professor Jacqueline Ramke from the School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Auckland, speaking on recent research proposing targeted support for eye examinations and vision aids. It will also include exhibition booths showcasing innovation and expertise across the eye health sector, free vision screenings for Parliamentary staff and MPs – delivered in partnership with Specsavers – and a high-profile evening function engaging political leaders and stakeholders.

“Together, these elements will highlight both the scale of preventable vision loss and the practical solutions already within reach,” EHA said.

EHA project manager Brigid Hitchcock said the organisation is seeking sponsors for the event. “Opportunities linked to the event offer organisations a chance to step forward as leaders in eye health. In return, partners will gain meaningful engagement with policymakers, high-level visibility and an opportunity to help shape the national conversation,” she said. Interested parties can contact her at brigid@eha.org.nz.

Education making a difference

EHA is launching a children’s booklet, Be Eye Smart, developed in collaboration with clinicians and educators. “Designed to be practical, engaging and accessible, it helps children understand how to care for their eyes, while equipping parents and caregivers to recognise early warning signs,” EHA said.

Printed copies in both English and te reo Māori will be distributed to schools across Aotearoa this year and can be downloaded from eyehealthaotearoa.org.nz/resources.