New Zealand Deaf Sport Mascot: A stuffed Kiwi — SignDNA - Deaf National Archive New Zealand

New Zealand Deaf Sport Mascot: A stuffed Kiwi

A stuffed Kiwi, in a cartoonish design, dressed in a black top with a Olympic and fern symbol on its top. It was used by NZ Deaf sport teams, such as those attending World Games for the Deaf, or NZ Sport Representatives such as the 1985 New Zealand Deaf Netball Team who participated in the 4^th Trans-Tasman Games. The mascot is currently in possession by Wellington Deaf Society, donated by Tony Walton (ex-President of NZ Amateur Deaf Sports Association).

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NZSL story – Taonga source: Pam Croskery

A Small Kiwi, A Big NZ Symbol

Pam Croskery shares memories of the Kiwi mascot used by the NZ Deaflympics team. Each player had a small kiwi to trade or pose with in photos. A larger mascot was used for team photos and marches. For many, the kiwi sign made New Zealand instantly recognisable, even if they did not know the official sign. Pam traded her small kiwi for a Canadian bear at the Christchurch World Deaf Games. The large mascot was last seen with the NZ team at the 2005 Deaflympics in Melbourne.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Tony Walton

The Mighty Kiwi: More Than Just a Mascot

The giant Kiwi mascot was a hit with crowds and delegates alike at the 1985 World Games for the Deaf. Carried proudly by the New Zealand Deaf team during team photos, ceremonies, and marches, it drew plenty of attention and added flair to the team’s presence. Tony Walton believes the mascot wasn’t just a crowd-pleaser – it also played a part in swaying CISS delegates to vote for New Zealand to host the 1989 Games. For Tony, strong promotion made all the difference. The beloved Kiwi mascot continued to feature at the 1989 Games and other Deaf sporting events, becoming a symbol of national pride and team spirit.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Shona McGhie

From Supporter to Secretary: Shona McGhie’s NZDSA Story

Shona McGhie shares how she became involved with the NZ Deaf Sports Association after attending the 1981 World Deaf Games in Köln as a supporter. Inspired, she accepted an invitation from Norman to observe an NZDSA executive meeting. They were looking for a new secretary, as Margaret Coutts had joined the organising committee for the 1989 Games. Shona was nervous but took on the role. She worked with basic green-and-black screen computers, fax machines, and letters. It was a demanding period, especially with the 1989 World Deaf Games ahead. Shona stayed in the role until 1996.

Relevant Links

Taonga source:

Wellington Deaf Society

Reference number:

SignDNA – Deaf National Archive New Zealand, 125-O-WDS

Copyright status:

This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

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This item has been compressed and/or edited.

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