Voices and updates from our community

From surviving high school to what it's really like the first time your hearing aids are turned on, hearing real stories from others can offer comfort, insight, and a sense of connection.

But our community is more than just stories—stay informed with the latest news, events, and developments from the world of hearing health.

Browse a range of personal experiences and updates from Kiwis of all ages on their hearing journey—and the people working to make a difference.

Have a story to share or news to contribute? We’d love to hear from you. Contact our friendly team at enquiries@nfdhh.org.nz

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All Posts

Running for awareness: Toni-Anne's mission

When Toni-Anne signed up for Round the Bays 2026, she turned her love of running into a way to raise awareness for the 1 in 6 Kiwis living with hearing loss. Discover how her participation is helping bring hearing health support and awareness to communities across Aotearoa.

Briana Valgre

4 days ago2 min read

Hearing loss and dementia: The overlooked modifiable risk factor in ageing Kiwis

All you need to know about the link between hearing loss and dementia. We take a look at research, how hearing loss affect the brain and the benefit of education and early intervention.

Briana Valgre

Oct 192 min read

More than sound: Safeguarding memory through hearing health

At Remuera Rise retirement village, residents John and Gillian know firsthand what it means to rediscover connection through better hearing. “I thought I was answering people’s questions,” John recalls, “but too often I found out I’d answered the wrong one. I simply hadn’t heard properly.” For Gillian, it was her family who finally made her realise: “Mum, you’re not listening. Listen to us.” Like so many elderly New Zealanders, hearing loss crept in slowly — unnoticed at firs

Briana Valgre

Oct 193 min read

Creating safe spaces for hearing health

For audiologist and Specsavers Audiology Partner, Carmela, the Retirement Village Outreach Programme is about far more than hearing checks. It’s about connection, trust, and giving elderly New Zealanders the confidence to take their hearing health seriously. The hidden impact of hearing loss “Hearing loss is such an invisible disability,” Carmela explains. “Most people don’t realise how much they’re missing until it’s much worse. That’s why early intervention is key.” Through

Briana Valgre

Oct 192 min read

Relearning the world of sound - Janet's cochlear implant journey

Janet is a volunteer for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Foundation. Discover her inspiring journey from progressive hearing loss to life-changing cochlear implant surgery. She shares her challenges, recovery, and hope for others living with hearing loss.

Briana Valgre

Sep 154 min read

How Heartland Bank is leading the way in hearing inclusion

In a country where over 880,000 people live with hearing loss, Heartland Bank is taking bold steps to ensure that no one is left out of...

Briana Valgre

Jul 292 min read

Two preschool kids playing with a Sound Monkey in the background

Protecting tiny ears: Safe listening tips for early childhood centres

Noise levels in early childhood centres can affect tamariki’s hearing and learning. Our Safe Listening Tips blog shares easy strategies to reduce sound exposure, promote calm classrooms, and build lifelong healthy listening habits. Learn how your centre can create a safer sound environment—and explore how Sound Monkeys help kids stay in the green zone.

Briana Valgre

Jul 22 min read

Luke's story: Discovery of hearing loss through the school programme

When 14-year-old Luke took part in a school hearing check, he never expected life-changing news. Discover how a simple screening revealed a hidden hearing loss—and why his mum believes every Kiwi child deserves this chance.

Briana Valgre

May 193 min read

Why it's time to take teen hearing loss seriously - and what can be done about it

Hearing loss among teens is rising in New Zealand and globally—yet many are unaware of the risks. Our Make Listening Safe programme reveals that 42% of Kiwi students report unsafe listening habits. It's time to take action. Discover why schools must prioritise hearing screenings and education now to prevent irreversible damage.

Briana Valgre

May 193 min read