On this page
- What is Braille?;
- Sighted Adults Learning Braille; and
- Blind Adults Learning Braille
What is Braille?
Braille consists of arrangements of raised dots that stand for individual letters, combinations of letters (contractions), punctuation signs and other print symbols. By using a six-dot cell, 63 different patterns can be formed. Uncontracted Braille uses 26 of these symbols to stand for the letters of the alphabet, while contracted Braille makes use of all 63 symbols to represent whole words, combinations of two or more letters and punctuation marks.
For more information follow our useful links.
Sighted Adults Learning Braille
Parents of ākonga learning Braille are encouraged to learn the Braille code. A variety of courses and materials are available to support this learning, and the Resource Teacher Vision will work alongside them to tailor a programme that will meet their individual needs.
Blind Adults Learning Braille
Blind Low Vision NZ teaches Braille to blind adults.
To find out more about learning Braille phone 0800 243 333 or go to the Blind Low Vision NZ website.
BLVNZ Position Statement About Braille Literacy
Blind Low Vision NZ has several position statements one of which is about Braille Literacy and Numeracy. See
https://blindlowvision.org.nz/about-us/position-statements/access-to-braille-literacy-and-numeracy/
Last updated 14 July 2025