Macular Degeneration New Zealand - MDNZ

24/08/2026

👁️ Did You Know? 👁️

1 in 7 people over the age of 50 will get macular degeneration (MD).

MD affects the part of the eye responsible for sharp central vision needed for reading, driving, and recognising faces. Early symptoms can include blurred vision, difficulty reading, and straight lines appearing wavy.

The good news is that early detection can make a significant difference. Regular eye examinations, not smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, and managing overall health can all help reduce the risk of progression.

Your eyesight is precious. Don't wait until you notice a problem. Book regular eye checks and encourage your loved ones to do the same. 💙

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/take-the-test

18/08/2026

Today, we celebrate Claire McDonald in Warkworth and their generous support as a Professional Friend of MDNZ. We are grateful for your commitment to helping people with macular degeneration access the information and support they need. Thank you Claire!
https://www.mdnz.org.nz/professional-friends %20McDonald%20

16/08/2026

Imagine not being able to clearly see the faces of the people you love. Macular degeneration affects millions worldwide, making everyday tasks more difficult. Early detection matters, so book that eye exam and take our online eye test today! 👁️✨

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/take-the-test

10/08/2026

Did you know that an important part of MDNZ’s work is advocacy?
We do this through our involvement with Eye Health Aotearoa (EHA), a collective of eye health organisations. Together we advocate to policy and decision makers for better eye health.
Recently EHA hosted a Parliamentary Friends of Eye Health event at Parliament, which brought together MPs, clinicians, researchers, people with lived experience, community organisations, and industry leaders – all sharing a commitment to improving eye health outcomes in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The event featured two milestones: the launch of New Zealand’s first Children’s Eye Care booklet, and the signing of a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between EHA and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO).

Photos: MDNZ's Sarah Berman and Minister of Health Simeon Brown review the Children's Eye Care booklet; the renewed MoU is signed.

04/08/2026

A big shout-out to optometrist Phil Donaldson in Hastings! Thank you for being a valued Professional Friend of MDNZ and for helping us support people living with macular degeneration. Your dedication to better outcomes is making a real impact in our community.
https://www.mdnz.org.nz/professional-friends %20Donaldson%20

03/08/2026

Bronwyn’s story serves as an important reminder that awareness of macular degeneration can make a real difference, and that everyone over 50 should be informed and confident in advocating for the treatment they need.

Bronwyn’s message – Be informed Bronwyn was overseas when she realised that her vision was not as good as it had been. On her return she received a card in the mail from her optometrist notifying her that she was due for her two-yearly check-up. Bronwyn promptly made an appointment. She advi

28/07/2026

Sometimes it can be confusing trying to understand the difference between dry eyes, dry MD and wet MD. A good way of explaining the distinction is that "dry eye" refers to issues at the front of the eye, causing it to feel dry, gritty or sore. In contrast dry MD refers to the back of the eye. It's not a sensation you feel but rather affects your central vision. It's called dry MD because it does not involve leaky fluid at the back of the eye. This leaky fluid occurs in wet MD and can cause sudden and serious vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment can save sight. For more info click here: https://www.mdnz.org.nz/

26/07/2026

We are delighted to acknowledge and thank optometrist John Boyle in Whanganui for his ongoing support as a Professional Friend of MDNZ. Your commitment to improving outcomes for people affected by macular degeneration is greatly appreciated, thank you John!

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/professional-friends %20Boyle%20

22/07/2026

Did you know our newsletters are available in audio format? This is a great option for people who have low vision. Grab a cuppa, put your feet up and have a listen here https://www.mdnz.org.nz/viewpoint-podcasts

Big thanks to narrator Joe Gilfillan and Blind Low Vision NZ for making these available.

19/07/2026

Have your read about how Mandy continued to produce amazing art while living with low vision caused by macular degeneration? Such an inspiring and encouraging story!

“Don’t Give Up On What You Love” 15 Dec Written By Helen Cisowski Mandy holding her piece of artwork “Tom the Takahē”. Artist Mandy Thorburn-Paku was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration (MD) around 3 years ago. Mandy has wet (neovascular) MD and has been having regular injections since sh...