Disability rights
Your rights to use New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)
New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990, s 20 New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006, ss 6, 9
NZSL is one of New Zealand’s official languages.
Anyone in New Zealand has the right to speak any language they want, at any time. New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), along with te reo Māori, has special status as an official language of New Zealand. This means you are allowed to use it anywhere you like, and you can expect all government departments and staff to communicate with you in NZSL or to provide interpreters as necessary.
However, the right to use NZSL isn’t protected by the anti-discrimination laws like the Human Rights Act 1993. Discrimination based on language isn’t included in that Act – that issue usually arises in relation to race-based discrimination (which is covered by anti-discrimination laws).
Do I have the right to use NZSL in a court?
New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006, s 7
Yes. If you are involved in any kind of court business, in any court in New Zealand, you have the right to use NZSL. This includes tribunals like the Tenancy Tribunal and the Employment Relations Authority. All you need to do is let the judge, or whoever is in charge, know at least 10 working days in advance so they can organise a free interpreter.
You have these rights if you’re involved in the case. It doesn’t matter if you’re the one bringing the case (taking your employer to the Employment Relations Authority for example), or you’re defending the case (when you’re charged with a crime in the District Court for example), or you’re a witness in the case. Other people can still use NZSL, but they’ll first need to ask the judge or whoever is in charge.
For more information about using NZSL in a court, go to www.justice.govt.nz.
Government departments are expected to be accessible to NZSL users
New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006, s 9
As far as is practical, government departments like Work and Income, the police, and Inland Revenue should try to make their services and information accessible to the Deaf community, including by using NZSL.
If possible, you should let staff members know in advance that they’ll need to provide an interpreter.
How do I get NZSL in these places?
You can tell the department if you have special requirements, and they will do their best to book an appropriate and free interpreter. For instance, you can say you want someone of the same gender as you for a health-related appointment, or someone familiar with older or younger people’s signing styles. If they can’t provide exactly what you want, the staff should work with you to come to an arrangement that will work.
You should never need to pay for the interpreter yourself.
