History of the New Zealand Orthoptic Society

The New Zealand Orthoptic Society (NZOSI) originally became a registered incorporated society in 1979. It was founded by like-minded Orthoptists who saw a need to have a formal professional support network in Aotearoa New Zealand (hereafter referred to as New Zealand) and to promote the practice of Orthoptics. All members obtained professional qualifications overseas, and were recruited to work in New Zealand at various centres throughout the country. The majority were in sole practising roles within a public eye service, or working in the private sector alongside Ophthalmologists. Unfortunately the number of Orthoptists practising in New Zealand dwindled significantly, leading to the disestablishment of the Society in 1997.

After over a decade of inactivity the Society was re-established in 2010 as an incorporated society with the same common goals in mind. The main factors influencing this action were; an increasing number of Orthoptists practising in New Zealand again, the absence of a formal organisation representing our profession (to increase profile and network with other health sector stakeholders), the need to create a professional network to support one another in clinical practice and continuing professional development.

The society became a member of Allied Health Professions Forum (now Allied Health Alliance NZ) in 2012, as well as becoming an associate member of the International Orthoptic Society (IOA). The original NZOSI website and logo were published in 2013. NZOSI has a seat on the Australia New Zealand Strabismus Society (supported by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists).

Today, the society has 30 members who have obtained their qualification from the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, Europe and Pakistan. New Zealand continues to be supported by orthoptists trained overseas due to the absence of a domestic orthoptic training program.