In a significant step towards fostering greater accessibility and understanding, Deaf Aotearoa is set to host a series of pioneering coffee tasting events across New Zealand in collaboration with Starbucks. Scheduled for midday on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, these events mark the first time such a widespread initiative has been designed to be fully inclusive of the New Zealand Deaf community, with New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) interpreters provided at each location.
The partnership aims to dismantle communication barriers that often exclude Deaf individuals from participating in everyday activities. By bringing together Deaf and hearing people in a shared cultural experience centered around coffee, the event seeks to promote connection and highlight the importance of NZSL in public spaces.
Five key Starbucks locations will serve as the venues: three in Auckland (Albany, Kakano, and Papakura), one in Wellington (Lambton Quay), and one in Christchurch (Cathedral Square). Each site will be equipped with NZSL interpreters from Deaf Aotearoa’s iSign service, ensuring that Deaf attendees can fully engage with the coffee tasting experience, from learning about the beans to discussing flavor profiles.
Lachlan Keating, CEO of Deaf Aotearoa, underscored the necessity of such collaborations. “Partnering with businesses like Starbucks is crucial for Deaf Aotearoa as it helps us create more inclusive and accessible experiences for the Deaf community,” Mr. Keating said. “These collaborations not only raise awareness about the importance of accessibility but also demonstrate a commitment to breaking down barriers that Deaf individuals often face.” He added that simple acts like ordering a coffee can present challenges, making inclusive events particularly impactful.
The event is free and open to all members of the public, regardless of their signing ability. Organisers hope it will encourage hearing attendees to learn more about NZSL and interact directly with members of the Deaf community. Workplaces situated near the participating Starbucks stores are being specifically encouraged to bring their teams for a midday break that offers both cultural enrichment and community engagement.
Beyond the tasting on May 6th, the partnership includes a fundraising drive. From May 6th through May 11th, Starbucks stores across New Zealand will accept donations at the till, with all proceeds going directly to Deaf Aotearoa to support their programmes and services for the Deaf community. Kiwis are invited to contribute throughout the week, further supporting efforts to enhance accessibility.
Lara Draper, a local Deaf person, shared what the accessibility of such events means to her. “As a Deaf person, having coffee tasting events accessible in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is a fantastic step towards inclusivity,” Ms. Draper commented. “It not only makes the Deaf community visible, but also encourages everyone to learn and use sign language.” She highlighted that this promotes a culture where Deaf people can fully participate and feel valued, and that learning to sign can bridge communication gaps for everyone.
The event coincides with NZSL Week, serving as a practical demonstration of this year’s theme and a call to action for a more accessible society. Attendees are encouraged to come along, enjoy the coffee, support the fundraising, and perhaps even pick up a few signs, contributing to a more connected and inclusive New Zealand, one cup at a time.