The Fred Hollows Foundation NZ is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and treating blindness and vision impairment in the Pacific region. Founded in 1992, it is an extension of the global Fred Hollows Foundation, originally established in Australia by the late Dr. Fred Hollows, an ophthalmologist committed to restoring sight and advocating for accessible eye care.
The New Zealand branch focuses on providing high-quality, low-cost eye care services in Pacific Island nations, where rates of avoidable blindness are high due to limited access to medical services and trained specialists. Its initiatives include training local eye care professionals, performing surgeries, and establishing sustainable eye health systems across the region.
By restoring sight, the foundation helps improve individuals' quality of life and has a positive economic impact on their families and communities. The foundation also emphasizes public awareness, fundraising, and advocacy in New Zealand to support its regional programs.