By ROSALEEN MacBRAYNE
John Blakeman might become New Zealand's first sightless local politician if he wins a seat in Tauranga.
The 48-year-old, who lost his sight two decades ago, is standing at the local body elections in October.
The Foundation for the Blind believes he might be New Zealand's only sightless politician
if he gains a seat on the Tauranga District Council.
With modern technology, supportive wife Chrissy and guide dog Kole, Mr Blakeman has no doubt he could manage council duties and cope with the paperwork.
The council, as an equal opportunity employer, has promised help and encouragement if he is elected to represent the Te Papa ward.
First up, though, Mr Blakeman is set on getting a talking computer.
A local sponsor has already promised half the $11,000 cost.
Having run a disco entertainment and function business for nearly 30 years, Mr Blakeman is well known in Tauranga and constantly stopped by people in the street.
"I may be blind but I am a very good listener," he says.
"My ears are constantly picking up little things because I am not distracted by seeing what is going on around me. It's not what people say as much as how they say it."
Because his business commitments are mostly confined to weekends, he says, he could devote five days a week, and eight to 12 hours a day, to civic duties.
Issues close to his heart are tourism, the environment and youth.
Feature: Local body elections 2001
