He shares with us why some eye conditions can go unnoticed until it’s too late, what puts our communities at higher risk, and the simple steps people can take now to protect their eyesight for the future. 

Q: Why is eye health important? 

Good eyesight supports our ability to work, care for our aiga, worship, and stay connected to our communities. Many eye conditions cause no pain or early symptoms, but can lead to permanent vision loss if they are not picked up early. Conditions such as diabetes-related eye disease and keratoconus are more common in our communities and often affect people at a younger age. Regular eye checks help protect vision, independence, and wellbeing across the life course. 

Q: How do summer conditions affect our eyes in Aotearoa? 

Aotearoa has very high UV levels. Strong sun increases the risk of cataracts and growths on the surface of the eye. Wind, dust, and pollen can make eyes itchy and irritated, which often leads to eye rubbing. Repeated eye rubbing is a key trigger for keratoconus, where the front of the eye becomes weak and misshapen. In severe cases, keratoconus can cause major vision loss and may even lead to the need for a corneal transplant. The good news is that early treatment called corneal cross-linking can stop keratoconus from progressing. Preventing eye rubbing is the most important step. 

Q: Simple summer tips to protect your eyes 

• Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV and use a wide-brimmed hat 

• Avoid rubbing itchy eyes, especially in children and teenagers 

• Use lubricating eye drops if eyes feel dry or sore 

• Talk to your GP or optometrist about anti-itch drops such as olopatadine, or lubricating drops like the subsidised Hylo-Fresh 

• Keep regular eye checks, especially if you have diabetes or a family history of eye problems 

Looking after our eyes helps us stay strong, independent, and able to care for others. Small actions taken early can protect vision for the future.