Our thoughts are with all those affected by the devastating February 22nd earthquake in Christchurch. We are sorry for the losses that some members have suffered, but are relieved to hear that most of the Deaf community members are safe.

The Deaf Aotearoa office in Christchurch is damaged slightly, and at the time of going to print, there is still damage to the building next door which is preventing a full inspection. Christchurch staff have set up a temporary venue where the Deaf community can meet with Deaf Aotearoa staff. The office is at the Royal NZ Foundation of the Blind at 96 Bristol Street, St Albans.

We would like to give our sincere thanks to two interpreters Evelyn Pateman and Jeremy Borland. They both live in Christchurch and went through the earthquake just like other Cantabrians did and were affected just like other people were. But they were still willing to interpret at the media conferences alongside Mayor Bob Parker and other emergency personnel, enabling Deaf people throughout NZ to access important & up-to-date information about safety and essential services.

The response from the general public about Evelyn & Jeremy has been very positive and it is heartening to see a positive response to the inclusion of NZSL in televised media briefings.We hope for the inclusion of NZSL interpreters at media briefings to become standard in the future.