Need a translator?
There are two main interpreter services available in New Zealand.
Language Line
Language Line provides free telephone based interpreting to help migrants use most government agencies.
To use Language Line, check which agencies use Language Line on the Ethnic Affairs website.
Call the agency and ask for Language Line. They will ask what language you require, then contact Language Line to find an interpreter. They are able to interpret for 42 languages. There is a list of the languages available on the Language Line website.
Usually within minutes, an interpreter is available on the telephone allowing the official and the client to communicate efficiently and with confidentiality.
Language Line lets you choose if you want a male or female interpreter.
There is information online explaining how the service works in many languages. contact them on freephone: 0800 656 656.
Interpreting New Zealand service
Interpreting New Zealand is an independent, not-for-profit organisation supporting communications between non-English speakers and government agencies, private businesses or individuals. They have branches in Wellington and Canterbury.
Professional community interpreters are available in almost 70 languages, 24-hours, 7 days a week, including weekends and public holidays.
For more information visit the Interpreting New Zealand's website. They also have information in several languages about the difference between using a trained and an untrained interpreter.
Being an interpreter
If you are interested in interpreting as a profession, contact the New Zealand Society of Translators and Interpreters at www.nzsti.org
