🌟 20 Years of NZSL as an Official Language 🌟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.
In 2026, we’re marking 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’re proud to host the NZSL Awards Night at Te Papa: a powerful evening to honour the people, allies, and organisations who’ve helped build an Aotearoa where anyone can sign anywhere.
The 2026 Awards theme, “A Legacy in Our Hands”, is a tribute to those who fought for the recognition of NZSL, and a reminder that we all have a role in shaping its future. Whether you’re a Deaf leader, a passionate advocate, or someone making space for NZSL in everyday life, this night is for you. With categories recognising everything from grassroots leadership to creative storytelling, inclusive workplaces to outstanding interpreting, the Awards celebrate the many ways NZSL thrives in our communities.
Expect a Deaf-led, fully accessible celebration filled with pride, connection, and aroha.
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| NZSL Week Awards 2026 at Te Papa |
In 2026, we’re celebrating a huge milestone — 20 years since New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) became an official language of Aotearoa.
As part of NZSL Week 2026, we’re proud to host the NZSL Awards Night at Te Papa 🏛️ — a powerful Deaf-led, fully accessible celebration to honour the people, allies, and organisations helping to build an Aotearoa where anyone can sign anywhere.
✨ This year’s theme, A Legacy in Our Hands, pays tribute to those who fought for recognition of NZSL and reminds us all that we each have a role in shaping its future.
💫 With categories recognising grassroots leadership, creative storytelling, inclusive workplaces, outstanding interpreting and more — the Awards celebrate the many ways NZSL thrives in our communities.
👉 Nominations — Who deserves to be recognised?
🎟️ Tickets — Join us at Te Papa on 9th May 2026
🤝 Sponsorship — Your support will help make this a night to remember!
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| Nominations are open now! |
The NZSL Awards are a very special night where we celebrate Deaf people, allies, and organisations who have championed NZSL. Nominations are now open - so if you know someone making a difference, put their name forward! |
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| | | NZSL ChampionRecognising passion and outstanding commitment to protecting, promoting, and preserving NZSL. |
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| Māori ChampionAn individual or organisation promoting NZSL learning among te reo Māori users. | |
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| | | Youth ChampionA Deaf leader aged between 14 and 24 who motivates others and strongly advocates for NZSL. |
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| NZSL Local ChampionRecognising 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. | |
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| | | NZSL AccessibilityAwarded to a service provider, healthcare provider, business, organisation or individual that provides exceptional access and/or commitment to promoting NZSL and Deaf awareness. |
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| NZSL EmployerA business or organisation committed to NZSL by working with Deaf employees and individuals. | |
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| | | NZSL Interpreter of the YearRecognising the outstanding efforts of an SLIANZ registered NZSL interpreter who goes the extra mile to show leadership, passion and professionalism. |
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| NZSL Teacher of the YearRecognising the outstanding efforts of a NZSLTA registered NZSL teacher/tutor who goes the extra mile to show leadership, passion and professionalism. | |
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| | | NZSL in EducationRecognising an education provider, at any level, that shows commitment to NZSL by promoting it in the curriculum. |
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| NZSL in Arts and CultureRecognising arts and culture initiatives demonstrating a commitment to NZSL accessibility and promotion. | |
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| | | NZSL in Sports and RecreationRecognising outstanding contributions in including and promoting NZSL in sports and recreation. |
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| NZSL in Government AgenciesRecognising a government agency that shows commitment to NZSL accessibility and including the NZSL community in their work. | |
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Sponsor us!If you would like to be part of an incredible event, we are looking for sponsorship. Your support will help make the awards a night to remember – if you are interested or if you know someone who is, please get in touch with us! |
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| |  | Full access and participation for
Deaf in Aotearoa / New Zealand |
| | | | | | | | | | Copyright 2020 Deaf Aotearoa Holdings Limited |
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