NZ Deaf News: Autumn/Winter 1990 (Vol. 24, No. 1)

Some of the items featured in the Autumn/Winter 1990 (Vol. 24, No. 1) issue of ‘New Zealand Deaf News’:

NZAD changed its motto from ‘Deafness – Let’s Face it’ to ‘The Voice Of Deaf People’.
NZAD has been given a legacy from the late Bruce McHattie, to be used to purchase a house in Glen Eden (26 Glendale Road).
Kevin Stokes writes an article on his experiences at Gallaudet during its Deaf Way conference, also attended by a number of other Kiwis.
Marianne Collins-Ahlgren received her PhD in Wellington, with Freda Pearce interpreting. This was probably the first time sign language interpreting was provided at a graduation ceremony in New Zealand.
Christchurch Deaf Youth Club is established.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Tony Walton

Tony Walton on Building a More Accessible Deaf Aotearoa

Tony reflects on his involvement with the New Zealand Association of the Deaf (now Deaf Aotearoa). In 1989, during the World Deaf Games, New Zealand had only two or three qualified NZSL interpreters – a serious shortage. NZDSA was strongly sign-based, while the NZAD board leaned more oral. After the Games, Tony joined NZAD as a delegate to learn how it worked, eventually becoming President. His focus was on Deaf youth, leading to the creation of Friends of Young Deaf (FYD), better Māori engagement and involvement with more NZSL interpreters. One key goal was to have 13 interpreters nationwide, giving every major town and city access. Interpreter pay and access were limited back then – very different from today.

NZSL story – Taonga source: John Hunt

Establishing the ‘NZ Deaf News’ in 1962

John Hunt's involvement with NZ Deaf News spanned 23 years. Upon moving to New Zealand in 1962, he was surprised to find out that there was no NZ Deaf News at a time where radio and TV (which was inaccessible for Deaf people) were one of the main medium of news. He established the NZ Deaf News publication with a group of 10 people. The first issue was only 8 pages and with donations, the next one was 16 pages. It grew exponentially and was the place to go for Deaf-related news.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Tony Walton

From New Lynn to Avondale: A Necessary Move

Tony served as President of the New Zealand Association of the Deaf from 1999 to 2003. At the time, the focus was on supporting Deaf youth – not relocating. But when asbestos was discovered in the ceiling of the New Lynn building, with removal costs estimated at $600,000, a major decision had to be made. With support from a funder willing to underwrite the risk, the building was sold and a new location was secured. The Avondale office officially opened in November 1999.