At Deaf Aotearoa New Zealand, we’re committed to creating a world where Deaf people have full access and participation in every aspect of life. Our Constitution sets out what we stand for and how we work to achieve equality, inclusion, and empowerment for the Deaf community.
Our Vision:
Full access and participation for Deaf in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Our Purpose:
We work to promote equality, wellbeing, and opportunities for Deaf people in New Zealand and beyond.
What We Do:
- Deaf Awareness:
- Advocate for NZSL recognition and Deaf culture.
- Share the voice of Deaf people nationally and internationally.
- Deaf Access:
- Ensure full access to services and information.
- Influence policies that affect Deaf lives.
- Deaf Advancement:
- Develop and preserve NZSL.
- Encourage leadership and participation in decision-making.
- Support disability strategies and international conventions.
- Māori Deaf Partnership:
- Work alongside Māori under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
- Ensure Māori Deaf have a voice and equal opportunities.
Our Powers:
The Executive Board can make decisions, manage funds, borrow and invest, and collaborate with similar organisations.
Who is on the Executive Board:
Craigo Findsen
Executive Board PresidentJoined the EB 2019 – present
Committee for Deaf Club Christchurch from 2012 – 2024 was an role of committee, Vice President and President.
Secretary for Southern zone rugby union 2013 – 2016.
I work as a carpenter, been since I was 19, never put those hammer down yet.
Went to VADAC Primary school, then moved on to mainstream for the last two years of primary then on to high school.
Have a Deaf brother.
One of my favourite quotes are from John Kinnear (Founder and first President of DSC)
“Do let us use our Deaf Club membership to the fullest advantage; instead of considering ‘of what use is the club to me?’ let us think ‘of what use am I to the Club.’“
Peter Barker
Vice PresidentExperienced in governance and business, I bring practiced leadership, strong values and focus on results, I’m committed to supporting inclusive communities and making positive impact through collaboration and clear decision-making, right path.
Oliver Ferguson
ChairpersonOliver Ferguson is a respected leader in the New Zealand Deaf community and currently serves as Chairperson. He is the former President of the Executive Board of Deaf Aotearoa, where he served for over a decade, including five years as President, as well as in roles as Vice President and Board Member.
As a Deaf leader and parent of two Deaf children, Oliver is a strong advocate for accessible healthcare, improved NZSL communication, and the advancement of New Zealand Sign Language in media, education, and public life.
Joanne Klaver
Board MemberIntroducing myself in Māori a pepeha
Mother is MereAnne side whanau ( Mapi – Taitoko ) Father is Billy side whanau ( Tanirau – Stanley )
Ko Tainui te waka Ko Tainui Te Waka
Ko Ngāti Maniapoto te iwi Ko Ngāti Maniapoto te iwi
Ko Ruketapu te maunga Ko Ruketarata te maunga
Ko Mokau te awa Ko Runga-Te-Rangi -Te hapu Ko kahotea te Marae ( Otorohanga )
Ko Manoaroa te marae ( Mokau )
Ko Joanne toku ingoa
Deaf Aotearoa Executive Board Member First time experience attending a representative meeting was in Dunedin — described as a great learning experience with the leadership team 7year (2014–2021) and Deaf Aotearoa of president after 4years (2021–2025) but I’m stay on the Board and continue supporting our amazing work together towards a shared vision. I’m profoundly Deaf Māori woman, I’m fluent in NZSL and Māori sign language. This enables me to communicate effectively with my whānau and the Deaf community. I have two sons, Sylvester (hearing) and Charles (Deaf). I’m tutoring NZSL at Fraser night in Hamilton. I am working part-time in community living support. Maori artist with impressive skills and experience in various hobbies.
I believe that our Māori Turi strategy will greatly benefit from more Māori-focused processes now. We team is always update Our regular meetings ensure we’re always informed about NZSL video content, and we use this time to review feedback, discuss meeting minutes, and share valuable resources.
We fully support the need for more Māori Turi services, and we’re excited about the prospect of growth. We extend warm welcome to our Māori Turi representatives to join our Executive Boards leaders, working together towards a prosperous future for all.
Nga Mihi Joanne Klaver
Emmie Bensley
Board MemberKai Ora,
My name is Emmie. I live in Christchurch, but I was born and raised in Hastings, Waimārama. Both of my parents are hearing, and one of my sisters is hearing as well. I have two sisters and one brother who are hard of hearing.
I am happily married to my husband Ash, who is fully Deaf, and we have three beautiful children who are all hearing.
In 2005, I attended Van Asch Deaf Education Centre for one year. It was my first time being around fully Deaf people, and I absolutely loved NZSL. That experience inspired me to study Deaf Studies so I could teach night classes.
My hobbies include spending time with my family whenever I can. I love baking, crafts, drawing, and art. I also attend Cook Islands practice and Cook Islands fitness classes twice a week with my older daughter.
As I return to the board, I want to help bring more culture forward and continue supporting the Deaf community. I believe actions speak louder than words. You will see me around more often, and if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to talk to me or any of our amazing board members.
Christopher Waite
Board MemberI have worked across a wide range of industries throughout my career, gaining practical experience and leadership insight from hands-on roles and from a family background in business ownership and management. This has shaped a grounded, solutions-focused approach to governance and a strong belief in supporting and empowering others.
I am currently employed at Fonterra, where he has worked for the past six years. I spent most of his education in mainstream schooling, enrolled at VADEC for one year in 2002.
A former rugby player, I represented Central Zone Deaf Rugby (2005–2006) and Southern Deaf Rugby (2007), and also played for local clubs and school 1st and 2nd XV teams. Retired from rugby due to ongoing injuries.
I am committed to strengthening visibility, accountability, and long-term sustainability for organisations serving Deaf Aotearoa.
Favourite quote:
“Enough is enough. Discipline creates change.”
Executive Board Updates
Statements from the Executive Board
