The 16th World Games for the Deaf were held in early January 1989. Later in the year was the national New Zealand Deaf Games held in Wellington. The events included athletics, long jump, discus, shotput and basketball where Wellington lost to Christchurch 56 – 72.
Awards:
- Outstanding sportsperson – Colin Kay Cup: Andrea Vowles
- Aotearoa Turi Shield Winner: Christchurch
- Sportsperson region: Auckland
