Father and daugther sitting outside on a bench and using NZSL

Sign For Change

See it. Sign it. Change it.

NZSL is one of Aotearoa’s official languages, but access to information in NZSL is still not equal. Through Sign for Change, we invite people across Aotearoa to experience NZSL avatar technology and take action for better access, stronger Deaf inclusion and a future shaped by Deaf community voice.

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Why It Matters

Access to information in NZSL is not always available when people need it most. Delays in accessing Deaf translators and experts can make it harder for Deaf communities to receive important updates, particularly during emergencies and public information events.

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Supporting NZSL Access

Deaf translators and experts are essential and cannot be replaced. But when access is not immediately available, NZSL avatars could help provide faster access to key information in NZSL and support more inclusive communication.

Experience the technology

Seeing the Technology in Action

We are working with Kara Technologies to explore how NZSL digital avatars can translate written information into NZSL. Through Sign for Change, people can learn more about the technology and its potential to improve access to information.

Explore the NZSL avatar project

Get Involved in Sign for Change

Whether you are a workplace, school, preschool, community group, whānau or individual, there are many ways to take part in Sign for Change. From learning NZSL and supporting fundraising activities to booking workshops and sharing feedback, every action helps make NZSL more visible and accessible across Aotearoa.

 

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Learn NZSL

Join the 30-day NZSL journey and learn 30 signs in 30 days through avatar-supported NZSL videos.

Each sign is a small step towards making NZSL more visible at home, at work, in schools and across the community.

Learn 30 signs

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Support the Campaign

Support more accessible communication by making a donation, hosting a fundraiser, or encouraging others to take part in the 30 Signs in 30 Days challenge.

Every contribution helps grow awareness, advocacy and inclusion.

Give $30 today

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Share Your Feedback

Deaf community feedback is central to this work. Help shape how NZSL avatar technology develops by sharing your experience and feedback.

Share your feedback

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Schools & Preschools

Schools and early learning centres can help make NZSL part of everyday life by learning simple signs, using them in daily routines, and encouraging tamariki and rangatahi to practise inclusion.

Bring NZSL to Your Classroom

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Workplaces

Workplaces can support more accessible communication by learning NZSL as a team, booking a Deaf awareness workshop, hosting a fundraiser, or exploring accessible communication tools.

Get Your Workplace Involved

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Individuals & Communities

You do not need to be fluent to start. Learn a sign, share the campaign, take part in fundraising activities, or encourage more accessible communication in your everyday life.

Start Your NZSL Journey

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Raise Funds for Deaf Inclusion

Your gift helps us continue work that supports Deaf and hard of hearing New Zealanders through advocacy, education, accessible communication and inclusion initiatives. Give $30 to mark 30 days of NZSL learning and help build momentum for better access.

  • $30 - Mark your 30-day journey
  • $60 - Help grow the movement
  • $100 - Support stronger access

Online Bank Transfer

  • Account Name: The National Foundation for the Deaf Incorporated
  • Account Number: 12-3011-0519936-51
  • Reference:Your name
  • Code:Your name or Supporter ID

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Give Today

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Register Today to Join Sign for Change 

Registering will ensure you receive the relevant Sign for Change resources

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Thank you for joining the Sign for Change movement. Sign for Change officially starts on August 1st 2026. Your Sign for Change resources and NZSL avatar videos will be sent to the email address you provided in your registration ahead of the official start date. If you have any question, make sure to contact us.

How Sign for Change works

Learn

Learn 30 NZSL signs in 30 days through avatar-supported NZSL videos.

Support

Support advocacy, education and accessible communication initiatives that help create a more inclusive Aotearoa.

Shape

Help shape the future of accessible communication by sharing feedback on NZSL avatar technology through Deaf community consultation.

 

Why join?

By taking part, you can:

  • Build confidence using NZSL
  • Help make communication more accessible
  • Support Deaf inclusion in your community
  • Be part of a movement creating lasting change

NZSL avatars are not a replacement for Deaf translators and experts. They are one tool that could help improve access to information when access is limited or unavailable.

* Make sure to register to receive the Sign for Change resources.

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