Lawn Bowls is a game that can be enjoyed by anyone with any form of vision impairment. Many people play bowls even if they are totally blind, have extremely limited direct vision or have very limited peripheral vision. Opportunities and support exist for all.

The New Zealand Blind Lawn Bowling Association (NZBLBA) supports all bowling events that give vision impaired an opportunity to play. Local have-a-go events are hosted to get people started. Fun tournaments occur involving the vision impaired community and also with fellow members of the wider bowling community. Events are also held with the wider open disability community where everyone can enjoy playing bowls together. Our members enjoy being part of the NZBLBA family and are also encouraged to join in the being part of the wider community by joining a local bowling club. National Championships are held annually for our members and there are also opportunities to be selected to represent New Zealand in World Championship and Commonwealth Games events. There is no expensive outlay to buy equipment to get started as bowls can easily be borrowed from clubs. Friendly coaching is available to respond to people’s needs and help them learn how to play the game.

There are four classification levels for vison impaired bowls from totally blind to partially sighted. When people first start, we don’t require any special assessments or classifications. It is only when people are playing in national or international championship levels that we will guide them to be formally assessed. Players are well supported, as every player works with a director (or guide) to help them during their games. Coaching is provided not only to players but also to directors to help them understand their role.

If anyone wants to find out about lawn bowls for people with vision impairment please contact the NZBLBA Secretary via email  - click on the button below.