Discover New Zealand Sign Language
Explore one of Aotearoa New Zealand's official languages and discover how New Zealand Sign Language connects people, families and communities.
Learn β’ Communicate β’ IncludeWhat Is New Zealand Sign Language?
New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is a complete, natural language used by many Deaf people in Aotearoa New Zealand.
NZSL uses hand movements, facial expressions and body movements to communicate. It has its own grammar and structure.
NZSL is not simply English translated into hand gestures. It is a language in its own right, with an important place in New Zealand's Deaf culture and community.
NZSL became an official language of New Zealand in 2006.
NZSL has been recognised as an official language of New Zealand since 2006.
Communication includes handshapes, movement, facial expression and body positioning.
NZSL is an important part of Deaf culture, identity and community connection.
Explore Trusted NZSL Resources
These New Zealand organisations provide information, learning opportunities and resources for people interested in NZSL.
NZSL Online Dictionary
Created by the Deaf Studies Research Unit at Victoria University of Wellington. Search thousands of NZSL signs and watch videos demonstrating how they are used.
A useful reference for learners, families, teachers and the wider community.
Explore NZSL Dictionary βNZSL Learning Resources
Explore learning resources from Deaf Aotearoa and New Zealand Sign Language Week.
Find educational booklets, posters, vocabulary sheets and introductory learning resources for children, families and schools.
Explore Learning Resources βNew Zealand Sign Language Board
The NZSL Board works to promote and maintain New Zealand Sign Language.
Learn about the language, its importance, Deaf culture and national initiatives supporting NZSL.
Visit NZSL Board βLearn NZSL
A free online learning portal for people who want to begin learning New Zealand Sign Language.
Explore videos, lessons and exercises covering everyday communication and practical situations.
Start Learning NZSL βDeaf Aotearoa
Deaf Aotearoa provides information and resources relating to Deaf culture, communication, accessibility and New Zealand Sign Language.
Explore useful information for individuals, families, educators and organisations.
Explore Deaf Aotearoa βNZSL for Schools & Families
Discover introductory NZSL classroom resources, including taster class materials and vocabulary activities.
These resources can help schools and whΔnau begin exploring NZSL together.
Explore Learning Pathways βHow Can You Start Learning NZSL?
You don't need to learn everything at once. Begin with simple everyday communication and build your knowledge over time.
- Explore basic greetings and everyday expressions.
- Learn about the NZSL fingerspelling alphabet.
- Practise numbers and commonly used signs.
- Watch authentic NZSL demonstrations from trusted learning resources.
- Learn about Deaf culture and respectful communication.
- Where possible, learn with Deaf NZSL teachers and language users.
π Communication Belongs to Everyone
Not all Deaf or hard-of-hearing people communicate in the same way.
Some use NZSL, some use spoken or written language, and others use a combination of communication methods.
Respecting each person's preferred way of communicating helps create more inclusive classrooms, friendships and communities.
At Inclusive Education NZ, we believe every child deserves opportunities to communicate, participate and belong.
About These Resources
Inclusive Education NZ provides links to independent New Zealand organisations offering NZSL information and learning resources.
All external learning materials remain the property of their respective creators. Please check the terms of use on each website before reproducing or adapting its content.
This page is an independent educational resource and is not an official NZSL teaching or certification programme.