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SignDNA is grateful to the Manawatu Deaf Society who have donated a large collection of films, recorded and edited by Joan Bailey, its founder. Established in 1962, it was originally named the Manawatu Deaf Sports Club. Later it was changed to the Manawatu Deaf Society.

It all began on the 21st of March 1964. A group of deaf adults from Napier and Hastings got together to form the Hawkes Bay Deaf Club. Soon after, others from as far away as Wairoa and Waipukurau soon joined in as well. There were over 20 members in 1964.

Telethons were run nationwide in New Zealand in 1975-79, 1981, 1983, 1985, 1988, 1990-91, 1993 and 2009. The 24-hour fundraiser would take place in regions around New Zealand and was broadcast on TV. Viewers would be shown coverage of the telethon nearest to their location. Smaller regions would typically see coverage of the telethon in one of the main centres (Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch or Dunedin), and it was in those areas where Deaf people were invited to participate.

Established in 1937, Auckland Deaf Society (ADS) is New Zealand’s largest (and second oldest) Deaf Club. Previously called the 'Auckland Adult Deaf Society' and the 'Deaf Welfare Centre', the club’s original home was at an old shop on 47 Parnell Road in Auckland, before moving to 164 Balmoral Road with enormous support from the 'Friends of the Deaf'. Auckland Deaf Society is now located at 16 Hillsborough Road.