The importance of tactile indicators in aged care environments

As the population of Aotearoa ages, the need to create safer, more accessible, and thoughtfully designed aged care environments has never been greater. Among the essential, yet often overlooked, features that support wellbeing in these spaces are Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI’s). Subtle in appearance but powerful in function, tactiles play a vital role in helping residents navigate safely, maintain independence, and move through their surroundings with dignity.

 

With age comes a natural decline in mobility, stability, and vision. In aged care environments, where slips, trips and missed steps can have serious consequences, safety must be embedded into the very fabric of the built environment. Tactile indicators act as an intuitive, physical warning system, guiding residents toward safe pathways and alerting them to potential hazards before they encounter them.

 

Age-related conditions such as macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma can dramatically reduce visual perception, leaving many residents more reliant on non-visual cues. Tactile indicators are specifically designed for this purpose, offering a textured surface underfoot to signal changes in environment, such as approaching stairs, ramps, or crossings, where a visual cue alone may not be enough.

 

Raised dots and bars deliver clear, physical feedback through the feet, a mobility aid or cane, allowing users to instinctively detect and respond to potential hazards. Guide dogs too are trained to recognise and respond to these signals, further supporting those navigating their environment with limited sight.

 

More than a compliance measure, tactile indicators are an investment in care, dignity, and independence. Installed in accordance with national accessibility standards, their strategic placement ensures consistent, reliable guidance for all users, whether at the top and bottom of stairs, in front of ramps, or at entries to potentially hazardous areas.

 

While tactility provides essential physical feedback, visual contrast remains equally important for those with partial sight. In aged care settings, where lighting can vary and vision may fluctuate, selecting tactile products with a strong luminance contrast against surrounding surfaces ensures they remain visible and effective.

 

At Haptix, we offer on-site contrast testing using our specialist Colorluminator technology, giving facility managers and designers absolute confidence in their material selections and compliance with accessibility standards.

The addition of tactile indicators within aged care environments is a small, unobtrusive intervention that carries substantial benefits. They reduce fall risks, restore confidence, and allow residents to move more freely and safely through the spaces they call home.

 

For designers, architects, and facility managers, incorporating tactile indicators into both new projects and refurbishments is not simply about regulatory obligation, it’s about creating environments where people feel cared for, supported, and empowered to live with independence.

 

Haptix is proud to partner with Blind Low Vision NZ in advocating for greater accessibility across Aotearoa. Together, we work to shape safer, more inclusive spaces for all.

 

To find out more about specifying or retrofitting tactiles in your aged care facility, connect with our team today.

Architectural awards 2025

The 2025 Local Architecture Award winners have been officially announced by Te Kāhui Whaihanga - The New Zealand Institute of Architects. These awards recognise outstanding architectural projects across New Zealand, celebrating design that enhances how we live, work, and connect with our built environment.

 

We’re pleased to share that Haptix was involved in two of this year’s winning projects - both of which showcase not only architectural excellence, but a commitment to accessibility and accessible design.

 

In Dunedin, we contributed to the transformation of George Street, which was recognised in the Southern Division for Planning and Urban Design. Working alongside Jasmax, our team supplied and installed stainless steel tactiles with carborundum inserts, stainless steel tactile bars with carborundum inserts, and tactile pavers. This upgrade has reshaped one of Dunedin’s busiest urban spaces, improving safety, accessibility, and public experience, while honouring the street’s historic character.

 

Further north in Taupō, we were pleased to be part of the team behind Te Whare Hono o Tūwharetoa, which received a Local Award in the Waikato & Bay of Plenty region for Commercial Architecture. Designed by DCA Architects of Transformation, this significant building blends modern form with local culture. Our contribution included the installation of polyurethane and stainless steel tactile indicators, ensuring that accessibility was seamlessly integrated throughout.

 

Congratulations to everyone recognised in this year’s awards. We’re grateful to have played a role in helping create spaces that are not only visually stunning, but safer and more accessible for all who use them.

Introducing Haptix by CMT Group

Formerly known as Total Tactilez, the team at CMT Group is thrilled to announce the launch of their new brand, Haptix. This rebrand marks an exciting new chapter in their commitment to creating safer, more accessible, and aesthetically seamless built environments.

At its core, Haptix specializes in architectural safety-scaping, providing solutions like tactile indicators, stair nosings, and pedestrian safety products. These offerings combine cutting-edge design with practicality, helping architects and developers create spaces that prioritize both safety and style.

Why Haptix?

The name Haptix draws inspiration from the word haptic, which relates to the sense of touch—symbolizing the brand’s focus on how people interact with and experience the environments around them. But this is more than just a name change; it’s a renewed commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and expertise.

Highlights of the Haptix Evolution:

The Promise of Haptix

While the name has changed, Haptix assures its clients and partners that the high standards they’ve come to rely on remain unwavering. From initial consultation to final installation, the brand’s comprehensive approach ensures every project is delivered with precision and care.

"We’re excited to introduce Haptix as a symbol of our continued dedication to creating spaces that truly make a difference," said Michelle Burns, Marketing Manager. "This transformation reflects our vision to blend innovation, safety, and design seamlessly."

What’s Next?

Haptix invites architects, designers, and developers to explore the new website and discover the tools and resources available to streamline their projects.

Celebrating White Cane Day with Haptix TGSI

October 15th marks White Cane Day, a global event celebrating the white cane as a powerful symbol of independence and freedom for individuals who are blind or have low vision. At CMT Group, we see the white cane as more than just a tool—it is an embodiment of the ability to navigate the world safely and confidently. As we observe White Cane Day, we take this opportunity to reflect on our role in creating inclusive spaces that go beyond regulatory compliance, fostering environments where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.

In partnership with Blind Low Vision NZ, we are committed to raising awareness about the importance of Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI) in making public spaces safer and more accessible. TGSI, though often overlooked, play a critical role in enabling blind and low-vision individuals to move independently and safely through complex built environments. While the white cane detects immediate obstacles, TGSI provides essential, proactive guidance, alerting users to hazards and changes in the environment well in advance.

The Role of the White Cane

For individuals with vision loss, the white cane extends their ability to interact with the world around them. It serves as both a physical and psychological tool, offering independence and a sense of security. The cane helps users detect obstacles at ground level, such as curbs, stairs, or uneven surfaces. It also signals environmental changes, enabling those with vision impairment to make informed decisions about their path forward.

The Role of Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI) Tactile Ground Surface Indicators are small, raised tactile patterns installed on walkways, ramps, stairs, and other surfaces in public spaces. These patterns are designed to be felt with the white cane or underfoot, providing important information about the surrounding environment.

Why TGSI Is so Important

For the 180,000 people in New Zealand living with some form of vision loss, accessible infrastructure is not a luxury—it is a necessity. New Zealand’s population includes a diverse range of individuals, including seniors, people with disabilities, and those experiencing temporary impairments. For these groups, navigating public spaces can present significant challenges.

Collaboration with Blind Low Vision NZ

At CMT Group, we believe in the power of collaboration to drive change. We are proud to work alongside Blind Low Vision NZ to promote the benefits of TGSI and raise awareness about the importance of inclusive design. Together, we are advocating for greater awareness and adoption of TGSI across New Zealand, in line with the country’s accessibility standards. When specified and installed correctly, TGSI can transform an ordinary space into a place where blind and low-vision individuals can move freely, safely, and independently. But the impact of TGSI extends beyond those with vision loss. It improves safety and accessibility for everyone, from seniors to parents with strollers, creating more universally designed environments that benefit the wider community.

Groundbreaking Haptix Drilling Rig Revolutionizes Construction and Railway Projects

In a major breakthrough for construction and railway projects, the Haptix Drilling Rig has been unveiled as a unique, high-performance machine that promises to redefine efficiency and precision in the industry. This state-of-the-art rig is built to tackle the demands of modern, large-scale projects, offering unprecedented speed, accuracy, and reliability.

Unmatched Speed and Productivity

At the core of the Haptix Drilling Rig's capabilities is its remarkable speed, drilling approximately 13.8 times faster than traditional machines. With a rate of up to 5,170 holes per hour, this rig is set to accelerate project timelines dramatically, particularly for tasks that are both time-sensitive and large in scale. Such speed and productivity make it an ideal tool for projects with tight deadlines, delivering results that no conventional rig can match.

Precision on Challenging Terrain One of the rig's standout features is its ability to navigate curves with pinpoint accuracy, enabling construction teams to work in challenging terrains and previously inaccessible areas. This capability not only broadens the scope of potential project sites but also opens doors to improved infrastructure in complex geographical areas.

Cost Savings through Reduced On-Site Time

Due to its advanced speed and precision, the Haptix Drilling Rig shortens on-site project time considerably, resulting in significant cost savings. Faster project completion not only reduces labor costs but also minimizes disruptions in surrounding areas—a vital benefit for projects in urban or heavily trafficked zones.

Enhanced Installation Accuracy and De-Risking

The Haptix Rig sets a new standard in installation accuracy for tactile components. Precision drilling virtually eliminates errors, reducing costly rework and ensuring a seamless installation process. This accuracy contributes to reduced shutdown times, less reliance on Railway Protection Offices, and lower manual labor demands—allowing teams to focus on strategic, value-added tasks that improve overall workforce efficiency.

Best-in-Class Dust Mitigation

Committed to environmental responsibility, the Haptix Drilling Rig includes advanced dust mitigation technology. This feature keeps worksites cleaner and helps construction companies comply with strict environmental regulations, all while maintaining productivity levels.

With its revolutionary capabilities, the Haptix Drilling Rig stands as an essential asset for any construction or railway team looking to improve speed, precision, and environmental stewardship on-site. This game-changing tool is set to make a lasting impact on the industry.

Haptix launches groundbreaking 3D/AR technology in NZ

We're excited to announce the launch a tool to transform the way architects and designers approach their projects.

Haptix’s advanced 3D/AR technology brings architectural designs and product ideas to life, allowing professionals to see their projects in immersive, realistic detail before construction begins. By blending 3D models with real-world environments, users can virtually walk through designs and visualise products like stair nosings and tactile indicators in the context of their specific site. This dynamic approach enhances collaboration among teams, clients, and contractors, making the decision-making process faster and more efficient.

“Haptix allows architects to experience designs in a whole new way, helping them make more informed decisions and ensuring they meet both aesthetic and safety standards before we break ground,” said Jayden Faulkner, Director at Haptix.

In addition to its design features, Haptix’s 3D/AR technology revolutionises the selection of safety products. Whether you’re working on a commercial or residential project, the “Visualise It” tool helps you explore how products like Tredfx SBR104 Aluminium Safety Stair Nosings and Tredfx BH10N Solid Brass Tactile Indicators will look in your space. This intuitive platform allows you to visualise these elements in 3D and in the physical environment using AR, making it easier to choose the right materials for both aesthetics and safety.

Why Choose Haptix?

With Haptix’s 3D and AR tools, architects and builders can:

• Visualise floor and stair materials in 3D and test their impact in real-time

• Rotate, zoom, and refine designs with incredible precision

• Share configurations for collaboration across teams

• Experience designs in physical spaces through AR for a truly immersive design process

Haptix is changing the way New Zealand architects and builders approach design and safety. By offering tools that provide immediate, immersive feedback and ensure compliance with local regulations, Haptix empowers professionals to make smarter, faster decisions. Start your journey to smarter design today. For more information on how Haptix can transform your next project, contact our team at 0800 Haptix.