A collective commitment to NZSL – everyone, everywhere, every day.
New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is an official language of Aotearoa New Zealand and a taonga essential to communication, belonging, and identity for Deaf people, Turi Māori, Deafblind people, and other NZSL users.
Despite the progress of recent years, NZSL users still face major barriers accessing healthcare, education, the justice system, emergency information, and wider public services. The NZSL Strategy 2026–2036 sets the long-term direction for change.
This Action Plan (May 2026–June 2027) sets out the first steps we will take to activate this decade of transformation. This Plan outlines the actions government agencies, Deaf and NZSL communities, organisations, and the public will take over the next 14 months to strengthen NZSL across Aotearoa. These actions are practical, measurable, and grounded in partnership with communities.
Our vision
