Waikato Deaf Society Inc 70th years Anniversary

Waikato Deaf Society (WDS) is proud to celebrate 70 years of serving the Deaf

community, having been established in 1956. Our vision is to build a strong, sustainable

Waikato Deaf community where New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) and Deaf culture

are shared, developed, and celebrated—now and for future generations.

To mark this important milestone, we are planning a 70th Anniversary Masquerade

Celebration on 6 June 2026 at Hamilton Gardens. This special event will bring the wider Deaf community together to reconnect, reflect, and celebrate our

shared history.

What the celebration will include:

• Waikato Deaf Society history theatre presentation

• Historical PowerPoint and photograph exhibition

• Attendance by the Minister for Disability Issues

• VIP Life Members and special guests

• Event decorations and venue hire

• Thank-you gifts for contributors and participants

Our fundraising goal

We are seeking to raise $15,000 specifically to support this 70th Anniversary event.

While we have applied for funding grants, some applications have been unsuccessful.

We are now reaching out to our community and supporters to help make this

celebration possible.

Every donation—big or small—will make a meaningful difference. Your support will help

ensure this milestone event is accessible, inclusive, and respectful of our Deaf heritage.

Thank you for helping us celebrate 70 years of connection, culture, and community.

With sincere thanks,

Celebrating 70 Years of Deaf Community, Culture, and NZSL