20 Years of NZSL as an Official Language
In 2026, we marked a major milestone, 20 years since New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) became an official language of Aotearoa New Zealand. As part of NZSL Week, we were proud to host the NZSL Awards Night at Te Papa: a powerful evening to honour the people, allies, and organisations who had helped build an Aotearoa where anyone could sign anywhere.
The 2026 Awards theme, “A Legacy in Our Hands”, was a tribute to those who fought for the recognition of NZSL, and a reminder that we all had a role in shaping its future. Whether you were a Deaf leader, a passionate advocate, or someone making space for NZSL in everyday life, this night was for you.
With categories recognising everything from grassroots leadership to creative storytelling, inclusive workplaces to outstanding interpreting, the Awards celebrated the many ways NZSL thrived in our communities.
It was a Deaf-led, fully accessible celebration filled with pride, connection, and aroha.
We also extend our sincere thanks to everyone who celebrated with us, whose presence, support, and shared pride made the night truly special.
✨ Ngā mihi nui to our kaitautoko for supporting this NZSL Awards Night 🫶
Our Silver Sponsors 🩶
Awards sponsors 🩷
Our co-host 🤝
With tautoko from 🙏
NZSL Awards Categories
NZSL Awards nominations are now closed.
Thank you to everyone who nominated their hero — we received the highest number of nominations ever, truly record‑breaking! We look forward to celebrating the winners: Deaf people, allies, and organisations who have championed New Zealand Sign Language.
NZSL Champion: Recognising passion and outstanding commitment to protecting, promoting, and preserving NZSL.
Youth Champion: A Deaf leader aged between 14 and 24 who motivates others and strongly advocates for NZSL.
Māori Champion: An individual or organisation promoting NZSL learning among te reo Māori users.
NZSL Local Champion: Recognising individuals’ outstanding contributions to promote, maintain and celebrate NZSL in their region. *
*Only individuals who are Deaf or NZSL users can be nominated for this category, not groups. We want nominations from all regions across Aotearoa. One local hero will be selected for each region by the selection panel as with all the other categories.
NZSL Accessibility: Awarded to a service provider, healthcare provider, business, organisation or individual that provides exceptional access and/or commitment to promoting NZSL and Deaf awareness.
NZSL Employer: A business or organisation committed to NZSL by working with Deaf employees and individuals.
NZSL Interpreter of the Year: Recognising the outstanding efforts of an SLIANZ registered NZSL interpreter who goes the extra mile to show leadership, passion and professionalism.
NZSL Teacher of the Year: Recognising the outstanding efforts of a NZSLTA registered NZSL teacher/tutor who goes the extra mile to show leadership, passion and professionalism.
NZSL in Education: Recognising an education provider, at any level, that shows commitment to NZSL by promoting it in the curriculum.
NZSL in Arts and Culture: Recognising arts and culture initiatives demonstrating a commitment to NZSL accessibility and promotion.
NZSL in Sports and Recreation: Recognising outstanding contributions in including and promoting NZSL in sports and recreation.
NZSL in Government Agencies: Recognising a government agency that shows commitment to NZSL accessibility and including the NZSL community in their work.
About the NZSL Awards
The New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Awards are a national celebration of language, culture, and community. Held every two years, they recognise Deaf people, allies, and organisations who’ve made outstanding contributions to promoting and strengthening NZSL across Aotearoa.
First held in 2009, the Awards have grown into a cherished tradition, a space where the Deaf community and wider society come together to honour achievements, share stories, and celebrate NZSL as one of New Zealand’s official languages.
At their heart, the Awards shine a light on the richness of Deaf culture, where NZSL is more than a language. It’s a source of identity, belonging, and connection. By recognising leaders, advocates, and everyday champions, the Awards highlight how NZSL continues to shape and strengthen the cultural fabric of Aotearoa.
More than a celebration, the NZSL Awards are a moment to reflect on progress, honour the legacy of those who paved the way, and inspire future generations to keep the language thriving – in every corner of the country, and in every pair of signing hands.