About
Speech New Zealand works with dedication to be informed and guided by growth, collaboration, inclusion and integrity.
Our Vision
An Aotearoa New Zealand where everyone has access to oral communication training.
Our Mission
We are building a nation of confident communicators through excellent, equitable and empowering oral communication training.
Our History
He whakatauki, titoro whakamuri, kokiri whakamua
Speech New Zealand began life in 1964 as the locally-based Wellington Speech Board. By 1966, it had awakened national interest through the breadth of its aims – to provide localised examinations to New Zealanders and to acknowledge the importance of New Zealand literature in these examinations. Thus, the examining body became the New Zealand Speech Board with the motto "Speech is Life".
Development was rapid. By 1967, the original six grades of the Speech and Drama syllabus had been extended to eight, plus diploma levels. From 1970, a Public Speaking and Communication syllabus was offered, plus others for Oral Communication Assessment (for schools and other community groups), Professional Speaking and English for Speakers of Other languages, expanded the syllabus offering to five. A ‘Theatre in Action’ syllabus, for group drama was added in 2003. By the year 2016, over 315,000 candidates had been examined.
A new century and a new millennium stimulated the Board to adopt a new image and brand of ‘Speech New Zealand’. The name was supported by the new motto – “Helping our nation to communicate”.
Collaboration
We work with communities and partners to create accessible, responsive and innovative opportunities.
Inclusion
An accessible, inclusive and safe environment to find your voice and advocate for you and your community.
Our Team
Our network of fantastic teachers around Aotearoa!
Our team is composed of passionate educators, experienced examiners, and enthusiastic professionals, all united by a common goal—to enhance oral communication skills and empower our community. Our teachers can customise a learning programme for you and your needs!
Learn more about the faces behind our mission and discover the wealth of expertise and commitment that drives us to inspire confident communicators across New Zealand.
Why Us
We are Local
All our approachable staff are Zealand-based with syllabi written by our teachers and examiners keeping content and tasks relevant to our Kiwi candidates.
Community
Empowerment
Community Focus
Speech NZ is dedicated to building confident communicators and stronger communities.
As a charity, we go beyond education to make communication skills accessible to all. Our outreach programmes support schools and individuals in high-need areas, equipping them with essential speaking and performance skills that open doors to education, employment, and leadership. By supporting a programme, sponsoring a student, or partnering with us, you can help create lasting opportunities for people across New Zealand.
