Macular Degeneration NZ Brings Awareness & Education Seminars to Otago
A series of free public seminars across Central Otago and the Southern Lakes will give communities the opportunity to hear directly from leading eye specialists about age-related macular degeneration (MD)—the leading cause of blindness in New Zealand. Affecting one in seven people over the age of 50, and with one in four experiencing some degree of vision loss by age 80, MD is a condition where early understanding and detection can make a profound difference. These seminars aim to provide clear, practical information to help people protect their sight and maintain independence for as long as possible.
Macular degeneration damages the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. While it does not cause complete blindness, it can significantly impact daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognising faces. Because symptoms often develop gradually, understanding risk factors and seeking timely assessment are essential to preserving vision.
Macular Degeneration NZ (MDNZ) is a charity whose mission is to reduce the incidence and impact of MD nationwide through:
- Awareness — Increasing public understanding so more New Zealanders recognise symptoms early.
- Education — Providing accurate, up-to-date information for people with MD, their families, carers, and health providers.
- Support — Enhancing quality of life by connecting individuals with practical resources and support services.
- Representation — Advocating for equitable access to evidence-based treatments and championing the needs of the MD community.
Free Seminar Details:
Local ophthalmologists will present the latest updates on MD, including current treatment options, new research developments, and everyday strategies for managing the condition.
- Alexandra (Speaker Dr Logan Mitchell) Saturday 28 March, 10.30am–12.00pm Alexandra Community Centre Hall, 15 Skird Street
- Queenstown (Speaker Dr Harry Bradshaw) Sunday 29 March, 10.00am–11.30am Sudima Queenstown Five Mile, 20 Grant Road, Frankton
- Wānaka (Speaker Dr Harry Bradshaw) Sunday 29 March, 3.00pm–4.30pm Wānaka Community Hub – The Sidey Auditorium, 34 McDougall Street
Please register at www.mdnz.org.nz/public-seminar-sign-up, call 0800 622 852, or email info@mdnz.org.nz.
Participants consistently praise these sessions for their clarity, relevance, and supportive atmosphere. Many describe feeling reassured and better equipped to navigate life with MD. One attendee summed up their experience simply:
“I would like to say a BIG THANK YOU for the excellent Seminar. It was ‘World Class’!”
These upcoming seminars reflect MDNZ’s ongoing commitment to empowering New Zealanders with knowledge, confidence, and support as they navigate the challenges of macular degeneration.
