Essential Vaccination Links

Key resources for booking your vaccination:

• BookMyVaccine Official Website
• Call 0800 28 29 26 (COVID Vaccination Healthline)
• Ministry of Health COVID-19 Information

Overview

BookMyVaccine is New Zealand's online system for scheduling COVID-19 vaccinations. While the initial vaccination campaign has evolved, the platform remains active for ongoing COVID-19 vaccination needs, including seasonal boosters for eligible populations.

COVID-19 Impact on the Blind and Low Vision Community

During the pandemic, the blind and low vision community faced unique challenges:

• Difficulty maintaining physical distancing in public spaces
• Challenges with touch-based navigation and sanitisation
• Increased reliance on support persons during lockdowns
• Need for accessible health information and booking systems

Community Health

Vaccination is one of many tools to protect our community health, particularly for those with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems. For the kāpō community and whānau:

• Many members may have additional health considerations that could increase vulnerability
• Reducing the risk of serious illness helps maintain independence
• Protecting community health supports everyone, especially the most vulnerable

New Zealand Statistics

Important facts about our community:

• Approximately 180,000 New Zealanders identify as blind or having low vision
• During COVID-19, blind and low vision people were identified as a priority group for vaccination
• Many in our community also have underlying health conditions that may increase COVID-19 risk

Personal Choice

At Kāpō Māori Aotearoa, we respect that health decisions are personal. We encourage:

• Consulting with your healthcare provider about your specific situation
• Making decisions based on reliable medical information
• Respecting others' health choices while protecting community wellbeing

Inclusive Approach

New Zealand's response to the pandemic was notable for its inclusivity:

• The COVID-19 vaccination program included dedicated accessibility coordinators at major vaccination centers
• Sign language interpreters were present at all major government briefings
• Vaccination information was made available in multiple formats including large print, audio, and braille
• Mobile vaccination units were deployed to reach people who couldn't travel to vaccination centers

Phone Booking (Recommended)

• Call the COVID Vaccination Healthline: 0800 28 29 26
• Available 8am–8pm, 7 days a week
• Operators can assist with accessibility needs and answer questions
• Interpreters are available if needed

Online Booking

• Visit BookMyVaccine website
• Follow the step-by-step process to select location, date and time
• Receive confirmation via text or email

At Your Appointment

• You can bring a support person
• Let staff know about any specific needs you have
• The process typically takes 30-45 minutes, including a 15-minute observation period
• Vaccination staff can provide information about any side effects and aftercare

Accessibility Support

Vaccination centers are required to provide:

• Clear signage and accessible pathways
• Staff trained in disability awareness
• Alternative formats for information
• Assistance with forms and documentation

Common Misinformation

Unfortunately, there has been considerable misinformation about vaccines. Common examples include:

• Claims that vaccines contain microchips or tracking devices
• Assertions that vaccines alter DNA or cause infertility
• Statements that natural immunity is always better than vaccination
• Claims that COVID-19 is "just like the flu" and vaccines are unnecessary

Potential Scams

Watch out for:

• Requests for payment to receive a vaccine (COVID-19 vaccines are free in New Zealand)
• Emails or texts claiming to be from BookMyVaccine asking for financial information
• Offers to purchase vaccines privately or "skip the queue"
• Fake vaccine certificates or documentation

Available Support

If you need assistance with booking or have questions about vaccination, our team is here to help. Visit our contact page for all the ways to reach us.

Getting to Your Appointment

• The Total Mobility scheme can assist with transport to vaccination appointments
• Some regions offer specific transport support for medical appointments
• Contact us to learn about options available in your area