Press Release – New Zealand Government This week (10 16 May 2021) is New Zealand Sign Language Week (NZSL), a nationwide celebration of NZSL as an official language of New Zealand. Were recognised as a world leader for our commitment to maintaining and furthering the use of our … This week (10 – 16 May 2021) is New Zealand Sign Language Week (NZSL), a nationwide celebration of NZSL as an official language of New Zealand. “We’re recognised as a world leader for our commitment to maintaining and furthering the use of our sign language,” says Minister for Disability Issues Carmel Sepuloni. “That’s why it’s important that we take this opportunity to really celebrate and affirm the passion and diversity of our Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.