Celebrating 20 years of NZSL as an Official Language

A warm, happy New Zealand Sign Language Week from all of us at Council.

This year marks a very special milestone: 20 years since New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) became an official language of Aotearoa New Zealand.

New Zealand Sign Language Week is a time to celebrate NZSL, recognise the Deaf community and encourage more people to learn, use and champion one of our country’s official languages.

Making our spaces more welcoming and accessible

We love living in an Aotearoa where anyone can sign, anywhere.

Alongside our Disability Advisory Group, and with a special mihi to Tania Ali, we have been working to make our facilities more accessible and welcoming for deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors.

From this week, visitors to our libraries, pools and the service centre in our Paraparaumu civic building will see video screens greeting them in NZSL.

Nau mai, haere mai!

Learn NZSL at Paraparaumu Library

Whether you are already on an NZSL learning journey or just getting started, there are a couple of ways to get involved at Paraparaumu Library during New Zealand Sign Language Week.

Kāpiti NZSL Learners Group

Thursday 7 May, 3.30pm–4.30pm
Paraparaumu Library

Come along to this friendly meet-up for anyone wanting to practise NZSL or connect with other learners. The group meets every second Thursday and is open to all.

There is no need to register, just drop-in.

Free NZSL Essentials workshop

Thursday 14 May, 3.30pm–4.30pm
Paraparaumu Library

Join us in person for a free NZSL Essentials workshop alongside our friends at Deaf Aotearoa.

You will learn more about the Deaf community, Deaf culture and some New Zealand Sign Language basics. Drop-ins are welcome.

A mihi to everyone involved

A huge mihi to everyone who has contributed their time, experience and knowledge to Council’s Disability Advisory Group, and to all those who have helped bring this kaupapa to life.

We are grateful for the guidance and mahi that supports more inclusive, accessible spaces across our district.

For more ways to learn about Deaf culture, grow your awareness and get started with NZSL, check out the wonderful mahi from Deaf Aotearoa.

Happy New Zealand Sign Language Week from us and our wider Council whānau.