Rubberneckers or rubber knickers? Terrorists or tourists?
Accurate captions are important for clarity but also to ensure at least nine percent of the population isn't excluded from the daily happenings of society.
A stenographer transcribes submissions to an inquiry on captioning in New Zealand. A sign language interpreter sits next to Labour MP Ruth Dyson in the background. Photo: RNZ / Daniela Maoate - Cox
The 2013 New Zealand Disability Survey by Statistics New Zealand shows hearing impairment affects about 380,000 people but unlike other countries, such as the United States, New Zealand doesn't have any legislation requiring captioning of broadcast media.
To hear the views of the public on this the Government Administration Committee is holding an inquiry in which members of the deaf and hearing impaired community have put forward their opinions.
Furthering the fight for equality, Question Time in the House was utilised to highlight the gender pay gap with a short sidetrack about Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei's T-shirt.
