Celebrating 20 Years of NZSL and a week of meaningful connection

6 hours ago
2 min read

There were many highlights from NZSL Week 2026 for The Hearing House, but one of the most special was the opportunity to spend time with Dr Joseph Murray, President of the World Federation of the Deaf, during his visit to Aotearoa.

This year also marked 20 years since NZSL became an official language of New Zealand. It was an important moment to celebrate progress, reflect on the journey so far, and continue conversations about what more we can do to strengthen the rights of Deaf people and ensure access to sign language for future generations.

Throughout the week, our CEO Claire Green attended a number of events alongside members of the Deaf community and sector partners, including Dr Murray’s lecture at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, a visit to Wellington Deaf Club, and the closing NZSL Awards dinner.

Congratulations to all the award winners — it was wonderful to see your mahi recognised! These events created valuable opportunities to connect, listen, learn, and reflect together with our wider Deaf community.

It was also wonderful to spend time with so many leaders and advocates across the sector, including Dr Joseph Murray, President of the World Federation of the Deaf, Willa Hand,APODC Chair and Hearing House Board member, Sara Corson from the Painga Project,Neil Heslop CEO of SCIP, and team members of Deaf Aotearoa: CEO Lachlan Keating,Head of iSign Mark Crooke, and Child and Youth manager Natasha Cloete.

Dr Murray’s global leadership has had a profound impact on advancing the rights of Deaf communities internationally, particularly in relation to sign language rights, Deaf identity, education, and inclusion.

Thank you to everyone who engaged with and supported NZSL Week this year. We are proud to continue learning, building relationships, and supporting a future where NZSL and Deaf culture are recognised, valued, and accessible to all.