3 September 2026

Business North Harbour members came together at CBM’s Rosedale offices for an evening of networking, conversation and a closer look at the international work being done to support people living with disabilities.

Hosted by CBM – Christian Blind Mission, the latest Networking and Nibbles event gave members the opportunity to connect over drinks and nibbles while hearing more about CBM’s work both internationally and closer to home.

CBM CEO Murray Sheard shared insight into the organisation’s work, describing CBM as an international development charity focused specifically on people with disabilities, a group that is often among those most at risk of being left behind.

While people living with disabilities in New Zealand can access a range of support services, Murray explained that this is not the case in many parts of the world, where a lack of accessible healthcare, equipment and support can have life-threatening consequences.

He highlighted CBM’s current response to flooding in Nepal, where people with disabilities can face additional dangers during natural disasters. One example was Boweanna, a woman with both hearing and sight impairments who was at risk of being swept away in the floods. Without people calling out to her and physically helping her to safety, the outcome could have been very different.

The evening also highlighted the importance of partnerships in creating practical solutions for people with disabilities across the Pacific.

Katie Noble from Allied Medical spoke about the organisation’s collaborative work with CBM, including getting much-needed disability equipment to Pacific Island communities. The partnership is also focused on building local capability. In Tuvalu, Allied Medical is working alongside occupational therapists and physiotherapists, including supporting the training of local physiotherapists so they can assess, prescribe and fit equipment themselves. “We’re actually building capacity,” Katie said, highlighting the value of sharing knowledge, expertise and support.

Allied Medical has also recently sent three pallets of equipment to the Cook Islands, while further work includes supporting learning opportunities for therapists in the region.

The collaboration demonstrates how businesses and organisations can combine their expertise and resources to achieve a greater impact, something that sits at the heart of Business North Harbour’s networking events.

Members also had the chance to take part in the popular 60-second quick-fire introductions, with contributions from Manenji Chidyamakono, a Massey University student, Alicia Sturt from IT Live, and Faith Gale from Vanguard.

The evening wrapped up with plenty of opportunity for informal networking and conversation, giving members the chance to build new connections while learning more about the work being carried out within their own business community and beyond.

Congratulations also to Madeline Luke, who took home the prize of a night away at the Sunrise Garden Penthouse Suite.

Thank you to CBM for hosting Business North Harbour members and sharing an insight into the important work you are doing around the world.