BACKNew Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), recognised as Aotearoa’s third official language, was celebrated through New Zealand during NZSL Week. Led by Deaf Aotearoa, the national organisation representing and supporting the Deaf community, this annual event promotes awareness of Deaf culture and the importance of NZSL in everyday life.
From May 4th to 10th, Rangitoto College took part in the nationwide celebration—its first formal advocacy campaign timed to honour the upcoming 20th anniversary of NZSL’s official recognition in 2026.
This milestone year also marks an exciting first for our school: the launch of Rangitoto College’s very own NZSL Club! Our mission is to bring the Human Rights Commission’s vision of a truly sign-friendly Aotearoa into our school community. We aim to build an inclusive campus, challenge misconceptions, and uplift the voices and experiences of the Deaf community.
To celebrate NZSL’s 20-year milestone, the NZSL Club hosted a range of activities throughout NZSL Week. These events were designed not only to teach signs but to honour Deaf identity, history, and language. Students enjoyed daily “Sign-of-the-Day” videos displayed around campus, documentary screenings in the NZSL Club classroom, and collaborative NZSL hand‑collage art sessions—creating a visual tribute to Deaf culture at Rangitoto.
Interested in learning a new way to communicate and helping build a more inclusive Rangitoto College? Whether you’re keen to pick up everyday NZSL or dive deeper into Deaf culture, our weekly sessions are open to everyone.
Why join us?
- Learn NZSL — Build confidence with conversational signing at your own pace.
- Connect with others — Meet new people in a friendly, visual, and inclusive environment.
- Celebrate NZSL — Be part of the nationwide celebration of 20 years of NZSL as an official language.
Come along to C2 every Thursday at lunchtime—everyone is welcome as we work toward a school where every student belongs. Stay updated by joining our Google Classroom using the code a5hee5fl.
