The website mycovidrecord.health.nz, operated by the New Zealand Government Ministry of Health Manatū Hauora, fails to conform with the international Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), as interpreted by my computer screen reader JAWS for Windows.

In theory, my dual-sensory disability allows me the right to a mask exemption, but the system fails when I attempt to apply for one. So my doctor’s representative has agreed to progress the application process on my behalf, but I suspect this difficulty also likely impacts others who identify as Deafblind. Thus the problems with this website are not unique to me.

Accessibility legislation should enforce WCAG standards for all New Zealand websites, especially the Government's!

This is a story about the barriers many face. We're sharing it because we want a law that puts accessibility at the heart of an inclusive Aotearoa New Zealand.

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