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A new "literacy card" being launched next week is designed to remove awkward moments for illiterate New Zealanders.
Literacy Aotearoa will introduce the card as a way to help those who struggle with everyday literacy needs.
The card is the brainchild of Southland businessman Stephen Winteringham and will allow adults to seek help in a discreet manner.
Four out of 10 adults in New Zealand have trouble reading.
"This can be terribly embarrassing in a public situation for the adult and the person that they are communicating with. This card removes the awkward moments discreetly," a Literacy Aotearoa spokesman said.
Five thousand cards are being printed in both English and Te Reo Maori.
- NZPA