SignDNA is the home of Aotearoa New Zealand’s visual Deaf history.

For the first time in the history of New Zealand, ten deaf debutantes were presented at a ball last night. The guests of honour were Mr D. Nathan, president of the Friends of the Deaf, Mr C. Allen, principal of the School for the Deaf at Titangi, and Mr W. Williams, president of the Auckland Adult Deaf Society. 

They are all members of Palmerston North-based Madedra (Manawatu Deaf Drama Group). Chilean-born drama tutor, Rolmedo Olmedo reckons he has found in them some of the best mime actors he has ever worked with. "They are so natural," he says.

The Wellington Association for Deaf Children writes to the editor covering Total Communication, the difficulties in the school system, the need for an interpreting training programme, and the need for deaf people to make their own decisions.

Sixteen Wellingtonians are part of the 97 strong New Zealand team to compete in the 16th World Games for the Deaf in Christchurch. Local members of the team and the sport they are competing in are listed.

Auckland film-maker Ann Andrews has embarked on a project that Television New Zealand initially regarded as unpalatable last year She is making a film about deaf people. Anne is allowing the deaf to use their first language – sign language.