This week, starting today, is New Zealand Sign Language Week, celebrating the language that is used by the Deaf community. Just three years ago, NZ Sign Language (NZSL) became the third official language in New Zealand, after English and Maori. This means that people who are part of the Deaf community are entitled to interpreters in law courts and in hospitals.

NZSL is different from other Sign Languages used around the world but there are some international signs that are recognised everywhere. Sign Language is a language with its own grammar. The NZSL Dictionary with more than 2,500 signs was published in 2002.

NZSL week will be celebrated with a number of activities. There will be an opening tonight by the Governor-General. The main cities will hold 45 minute Taster classes in libraries and other places to offer people a chance to learn a little NZSL, a taste. The International Comedy festival will offer some programmes this week in Auckland with interpreters for the Deaf. One comedian, who calls himself Deafywood, gives Sign Language performances also.