Macular Degeneration New Zealand - MDNZ

06/10/2026

We are truly grateful to Mcclellan Grimmer Edgar Optometrists Wellington NZ for supporting MDNZ through their Professional Friend Practice Membership. By working together, we are making a meaningful difference for those affected by macular degeneration. Thank you!

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

https://www.mgoptometrist.co.nz/

Trusted eye care for the whole family. MGE Optometrists in Wellington, New Zealand. Book your eye exam. Call 04-473-6275 today!

05/10/2026

Wondering what to make for dinner? Eating a healthy diet rich in green leafy veges, fresh fruit & oily fish is beneficial for eye health. Check out the recipe's below:

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/s/Great-eating-for-eye-health.pdf

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/s/Festive-eating-for-eye-health.pdf

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/s/MDNZ_Summer_Eating_for_Eye_Health.pdf

01/10/2026

Understanding the Different Classifications of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Dry (non-neovascular) macular degeneration (MD) generally progresses slowly and has three stages: Early, Intermediate and Advanced.

Early: small deposits called drusen begin to form under the retina. Drusen are common as we age, but larger or more numerous drusen can be an early sign of MD. Most people with early MD do not notice changes to their vision.

Intermediate: drusen may become larger and more numerous. Some people may begin to notice mild vision changes, such as difficulty seeing in low light or needing brighter light for reading. Regular eye examinations are important to monitor progression.

Advanced: patches of retinal tissue become damaged or disappear over time, affecting central vision. This is called Geographic Atrophy (GA)

Wet (neovascular) MD is an advanced form of MD where abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina. These vessels can leak blood or fluid, causing rapid damage to the macula and sudden changes in vision.

Treatment is available for wet MD and is free through the public health system in NZ. Early diagnosis and treatment for this type of MD is crucial to avoid preventable vision loss.

To learn more about macular degeneration and the support available, visit www.mdnz.org.nz.

30/09/2026

MDNZ would like to offer a special thank you to Rotorua Eye Clinic for their support as a Professional Friend. Your generosity enables us to raise awareness and improve outcomes for people with macular degeneration.

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/friends %20Eye%20Clinic
https://www.rotoruaeyes.co.nz/

28/09/2026

Did you know you can order free resources from us delivered right to your letterbox?

Our Amsler Grid with a magnet on the back is a great resource to have on your fridge to remind you to check your eyes at home in between regular visits to your eye health professional.

You can order resources here: https://www.mdnz.org.nz/patient-resources or by emailing us at [email protected] or calling 0800 622 852.

Resources are available in English, Chinese and Korean. NZ delivery only.

Please note resources are free for individuals, public hospitals, charities and MDNZ Professional Friends. A fee for postage and handling will be applied to orders from organisations such as ophthalmology and optometry practices.

28/09/2026

World Sight Day is going to be on Thursday the 8th of October this year and MDNZ will have a stand at the Greenlane Clinical Centre similar to last year! Please come along and visit us!

Developed by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about blindness and the importance of eye health, World Sight Day was held this year on the 9th October. Events happen around the world and in Auckland, the Low Vis

23/09/2026

We'd like to give a huge thank you to ophthalmologist Dr John Ah-Chan in Palmerston North! Your support as a Professional Friend of MDNZ means so much to us, and we appreciate your dedication to helping people affected by macular degeneration.

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/friends %20John%20Ah-Chan

22/09/2026

Could your vision be changing without you noticing?

The Amsler grid is a simple and quick self-check that can help identify changes in your central vision, which may be a sign of macular disease. It will only take a minute and it could make a real difference to your eye health.

Take the test today and encourage your family and friends to do the same.

Click here to check your vision: https://www.mdnz.org.nz/take-the-test

Early detection can save sight.

20/09/2026

Did you know that we offer free community seminars? Our seminars are delivered by an MDNZ Community Educator and are designed to help communities better understand macular degeneration, access support, and stay informed about eye health. To learn more about booking a free seminar for your community group, email [email protected]. We would love to hear from you!

16/09/2026

We are so grateful to ophthalmologist, Dr David Dalziel in Northland for supporting MDNZ as a Professional Friend. By working together, we are improving outcomes and making a difference in the lives of people living with macular degeneration.

https://www.mdnz.org.nz/friends %20David%20Dalziel