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.