New Zealand Sign Language

New Zealand Sign Language, or NZSL, is the main way that people who are deaf in New Zealand talk to each other. It is a special language made with hand movements, faces, and lips. It is not like talking or writing, but its own way to share ideas.

NZSL became an official language of New Zealand in 2006. This means that everyone, including people who are deaf, can understand important information from the government. Schools and universities, like Victoria University of Wellington and Auckland University of Technology, teach NZSL so more people can learn it.

NZSL comes from British Sign Language and shares many signs with American Sign Language. It has special signs for important places like Rotorua and Christchurch, and for Māori culture, like marae and tangi.

People have used NZSL for over 100 years, even when they were not allowed to use it in school. Today, it is used in many places, helping everyone communicate better.