Translation and interpreting services

Though most interactions in New Zealand will be conducted in English, there may be times when you wish to ensure you understand important information, and that you are being understood by others. In such cases an interpreting service may be necessary.

Language Line
Language Line is a free telephone interpreting service to improve communication between participating government agencies and their clients. It is designed for people who have little or no English. To access Language Line, telephone or visit the desired government agency, then ask for Language Line and your language.

The Language Line service is available in 37 languages and operates from Monday to Friday, 9.00am–6.00pm.

For more information and a detailed list of the government agencies that use Language Line go to www.languageline.govt.nz.

Translation services
If you need to get important documents translated into English while you are in New Zealand (eg. birth certificate, medical report), there are a variety of translation services available.

The Translation Service is a government-run organisation specialising in translating documents needed for immigration, citizenship, and New Zealand qualifications.

For more information on The Translation Service go to the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs website at www.dia.govt.nz.

Local governments
Some local governments also offer interpreting services for those conducting business with them.

Hospitals
Most of the bigger public hospitals have an interpreting service for patients whose first language is not English. Patients can also use family members or friends as interpreters if they wish.

There will often be a cost associated with using the hospital translation service.

You can receive free medical advice over the telephone by calling 0800 611 116. (This service will provide an interpreter, if required.)