The Sign Language Interpreters Association of New Zealand (SLIANZ) is the national professional body for sign language interpreters. SLIANZ represents and advances the profession of sign language interpreting by keeping members and consumers informed, and by promoting high standards of practice and integrity in the field.

Directory of New Zealand Sign Language interpreters

All SLIANZ-member interpreters listed in the directory have completed the minimum of diploma training or equivalent / higher overseas training. In the directory, the interpreter's year of qualification is listed (giving some indication of level of experience) as well as preferred areas of work.

SLIANZ is not a booking agency. Sign language interpreters listed in the directory should be contacted directly if a booking is desired.

Code of Ethics

Impartiality

Interpreters shall never counsel, advise or interject personal opinions during the interpreting assignment. Interpreters shall not allow their personal interests and beliefs to influence the interpreting assignment. Interpreters shall remove themselves if the interpretation is influenced by a lack of impartiality.

Confidentiality

Interpreters shall treat as confidential any information gained through an assignment, including the fact of their having undertaken an assignment

Competency

Interpreters shall only accept assignments in which they can reasonably expect to interpret competently having ascertained the level of skill required, the setting and the consumers involved. If an interpreter believes he/she is not able to interpret competently he/she will inform both parties and negotiate an acceptable solution.

Accuracy

Interpreters will, to the best of their ability interpret the meaning of the message in the manner in which it was intended without adding or omitting anything.

Professional Development

Interpreters shall continue to further their knowledge and skills by attending professional development or training activities, maintaining good working relations with colleagues, and keeping abreast of current literature and practice in the field.

Complaints procedure

If you have a complaint about an interpreter who is registered with SLIANZ, your first point of call should be the interpreter themselves, or the agency through which the interpreter was booked.

If the complaint cannot be resolved in this way, please contact the SLIANZ Secretary by email: secretary@slianz.org.nz.