23 October 2007

The winners of the recent Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind (RNZFB) Funky Eye Friday eyewear competition have been announced, with the most creative, colourful entries coming from Whakatane, Gisborne, Rototuna in Hamilton and Pakuranga in Auckland.

“We received a record number of entries – almost 1,000 – and the judges were very impressed at the calibre of eye wear that was submitted. This year we received the most spectacular entries we’ve seen to date!” says Alena Reznichenko, Community Education Consultant at the RNZFB.

Some of the winning entries were in the shape of bats, snails, leaves and flowers, designed using a range of materials including paint, feathers, fabric and sequins.

Funky Eye Friday is an annual event that encourages young students to create the craziest, most imaginative eyewear they can. Primary schools from across New Zealand participate, helping to raise awareness about eye health and safety.

The RNZFB’s Blind Week begins today, running to 29 October. Please give generously when you see volunteer collectors or donate $3 by texting BLIND to 469 or $20 by phoning 0900 4BLIND (0900 4 25463).

ENDS

For further information, including details of winners in each area, please contact:

Caitlin Sinclair, RNZFB Communications Coordinator
Phone: 09 355 6884 / 021 802 095