...we think basic NZSL should be taught to all members of the community to support those that use it.

Our vision is for the Deaf and hearing communities in Canterbury and ideally, the rest of New Zealand, to communicate more easily together.

At Sign Equity, our goal is to teach basic NZSL and Deaf Culture to as many people in Christchurch and Canterbury (or wherever NZSL is needed) as possible. We would like the Deaf community and other NZSL users to have access to their language when communicating with others.

“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” – Ludwig Wittgenstein

Knowing the basics of NZSL will forever be a useful tool. Maybe you already know of someone who uses NZSL in their daily life - they could be a family member, friend or colleague. You may work somewhere and wish to communicate with a client who frequents your workplace? The possibilities are endless....

We also cater to businesses, small groups & community groups.

Why Learn NZSL?

“One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.” – Frank Smith

Our course introduces you to New Zealand's beautiful non-verbal language, NZSL.

This basic course teaches you:

Information on Deaf Culture Awareness
The Fingerspelling Alphabet
Numbers
Greetings and Responses
Common and important words
Emergency signs

We also discuss with you, words you use everyday, family, hobbies, sports, work etc. and include some of these signs into your programme.

As our courses are tailored to what you require, we are unable to post prices online.

We are able to teach 1 - on - 1 or you could organise a group of friends (up to 10 people max) in a relaxed group setting at one of your homes. You can then split the cost between you all.

If you think NZSL may be beneficial to the business you work in, please send your employer the following link... 'What We Offer - Businesses'.

Sign Equity is here to help!

Why Learn Basic NZSL?

The Need

Our Vision

A society where everybody can communicate their basic

requirements for everyday needs!

In New Zealand

According to the 2013 New Zealand Health & Disability Survey, done through Statistics New Zealand, there are 380,000 people with a hearing loss. 219,000 males and 161,000 females.

In Christchurch alone, 10% of the population have some form of hearing loss.

The 2018 Census states there are 22, 986 NZSL users in the country, up from 20,235 in 2013

Sign language is not only used by Deaf people, but also other people who are unable to use their voice or simply prefer to communicate in NZSL.

Communication is one of the most basic human right

and is being overlooked by a huge part of

the New Zealand community.

In New Zealand we have three languages:

English (de facto)
Maori - Te Reo (Official 1987)
New Zealand Sign Language - NZSL (Official 2006).

Every New Zealander will be familiar some Te Reo Maori .

Common words like kia ora, ka pai and haere mai so...

"A different language is a different vision of life" - Federico Fellini.

Sign Equity is here to help!

Expand your mind and become more confident in yourself

Learn a visual form of communication.