This section describes how to accommodate the needs of deaf people who use a sign language other than New Zealand Sign Language.

• Try to find a sign language interpreter who is able to interpret in the foreign sign language. 
• If this is not possible, ask Deaf Aotearoa or the Sign Language Interpreters Association of New Zealand (SLIANZ) for advice. 
• Other communication professionals, such as a relay interpreter/visual language specialist, may be able to help or in some situations a family member of the deaf person.

Contrary to popular belief, sign language is not universal. Although there are some grammatical similarities between most sign languages, distinct sign languages exist in different countries. Users of one sign language will not necessarily understand someone using a different sign language.

Overseas visitors or recent immigrants who require a sign language interpreter may therefore not understand a New Zealand Sign Language interpreter.

Some sign language interpreters have experience in sign languages other than New Zealand Sign Language. A booking agency may be able to help. Alternatively, the SLIANZ directory of sign language interpreters lists other languages that an interpreter is prepared to work in.

Some foreign sign languages are closely related to New Zealand Sign Language (such as British Sign Language and Australian Sign Language). A British or Australian deaf person will usually be able to work with a New Zealand Sign Language interpreter.

Other sign languages are not related to New Zealand Sign Language (such as American Sign Language or Japanese Sign Language).

If a sign language interpreter with experience in the foreign sign language cannot be found, a relay interpreter/visual language specialist may be able to help.