New Zealanders are marking the world's first ever International Albinism Awareness Day.

There are about 75 children known to have albinism in this country, and the Albinism Trust is working to ensure they have plenty of support and opportunities.

National organiser Allen Little said life is much better in New Zealand than in some countries overseas.

"We have a much more positive and cosmopolitan community these days in Aotearoa New Zealand and albanism falls under that umbrella."
Allen Little said it's a sad reality that in many other nations just being born an albino puts your life in peril.

But in New Zealand, it's not a huge problem.

"We want people in New Zealand to feel good about having an albino child. Don't worry, don't get caught up in old wives tales, people these days with albanism can do anything and go anywhere."

The condition affects an estimated one in every 17,000 people.