Calls from the deaf community to have a sign language interpreter during election debates have been answered, with an interpreter to be included in the last leaders' debate.
TVNZ said its final debate between Prime Minister and National leader Bill English and Labour leader Jacinda Ardern on Wednesday would feature an New Zealand Sign Language interpreter.
Monday's announcement comes after members of the deaf community protested outside the state-owned broadcaster just over a week ago. A petition with about 2000 signatures was also delivered.
A spokeswoman told the group at the time that it could not include a signed version for "logistical reasons''.
TVNZ chief Kevin Kenrick today said: "It will be the first time we're presenting both captioning and sign language viewing options and it would not have been possible without support from our accessibility partners ABLE and Deaf Aotearoa.''
The last leaders' debate would screen on TV 1 on Wednesday at 7pm.
The NZ Sign Language version would be made available two days later on Friday morning via the OnDemand stream.
The delay would allow for a day-and-a-half turnaround and high quality interpretation, Deaf Aotearoa chief Lachlan Keating said.
"The fast pace and quick fire nature of political debates presents a big challenge for live interpreting,'' he said.
There would be three NZ Sign Language interpreters involved - one interpreting for Mr English, one for Ms Ardern and one for debate moderator Mike Hosking.
Mr Kenrick acknowledged International Week of the Deaf - which starts on Monday - and how pleased TVNZ was to be playing a role in offering more viewing options for deaf and hard-of-hearing viewers.
The Human Rights Commission has also praised the announcement, with disabilities rights commissioner Paula Tesoriero calling the move a "significant outcome''.
"The ability for deaf New Zealanders to participate in the democratic process will be strengthened by this development. This is a step towards including more NZ Sign Language in television.''
