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Whaikaha Ministry of Disabled People View our
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Sharing your alternate formats with the community

Sharing your information in alternate formats helps people access it in the way that works best for them.

Once your formats are ready, you will need to add them to your website and share them through your communication channels. 

Upload your alternate formats to your website

Make sure they are easy to find, ideally at the top of the page. They should sit alongside your standard content. You can:

  • link to a separate page of alternate formats
  • use a jump link to the bottom of the page, or
  • provide individual links for each format at the top.

Whatever option you choose, the most important thing is that people can find them easily.

Here are some examples:

Share your alternate formats

After you upload your alternate formats to your website, please email the link and a short blurb to: accessibility@whaikaha.govt.nz.

The blurb should briefly explain what the content is about and who it is for.

We will share the link and your blurb with the Disabled Peoples’ Organisations to include in their newsletters, websites, and social media. This helps make sure your alternate formats reach disabled people who use them.

We encourage you to share your alternate formats through your own communication channels, like newsletters and social media. This helps the information reach a wider audience and demonstrates your agency’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion for disabled people.

Provide print copies

Many disabled people prefer printed copies of alternate formats. They may take longer to read information or have limited or no access to digital devices.

Providing printed copies helps ensure disabled people can read information in a way that works for each person and at their own pace.

Braille

You can ask for printed Braille copies when you request alternate formats. These are produced using a Braille embosser, which creates raised dots on the paper. The copies will be posted to you.

Printed Braille is helpful for readers who do not have an electronic Braille display or for people with limited access to technology, including during emergencies.

Easy Read

Easy Read is often used in printed form. Many people with learning disabilities read with support from a friend, family member, or support person. Printed copies make this easier.

You can print Easy Read yourself on a standard colour printer.

Large print

Large print copies help people who need bigger text and have limited access to websites or devices. This includes people with low vision, older people, or anyone who finds large print easier to read.

You can print large print yourself on a standard printer.

Audio and NZSL formats cannot be printed because they are audio and video files. You can provide hardcopy versions by putting the files onto:

  • CDs
  • DVD discs
  • USB drives.

These options support people who do not have reliable internet access or who prefer using dedicated players or devices.