Skip to main content
{{cartCount}} Cart

Work begins on revision of NZS 4121 accessibility standard

The first revision of New Zealand's accessibility design standard in 25 years is now under way. The project will update NZS 4121 to better reflect modern accessibility needs, informed by the experiences of disabled people and advances in inclusive design.

NZS 4121

The revision of NZS 4121 Design for access and mobility – Buildings and associated facilities, New Zealand's principal reference point for accessibility design, is now under way. The standard was last reviewed in 2001 and will be updated to reflect changes in accessibility design, technology and community expectations.

The project is commissioned in partnership by Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People and Building System Performance (BSP), the building regulator within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). The revision aims to improve access and usability for everyone who uses buildings and associated facilities.

Standards New Zealand National Manager Malcolm MacMillan says: “Accessibility design has evolved significantly since the standard was last reviewed. This includes, for example, Universal Design principles, making buildings accessible to all people of all abilities at any stage of life, emergency egress, and sensory accessibility including broader definitions of disability. To that last point, it's notable that we are, for the first time, incorporating neurodiversity into the scope.”

The revised standard will consider a range of accessibility features, including:

  • clearer wayfinding
  • improved signage
  • safer circulation routes
  • better lighting
  • more intuitive building layouts.

Neurodiversity will also be considered for the first time as part of the standard's scope. This includes, but is not limited to, people with ADHD, autism and dyslexia.

The revision is being informed by the experiences and perspectives of disabled people through scoping workshops and ongoing engagement. Ministry of Disabled People — Whaikaha Deputy Chief Executive Rebecca Elvy says the project is an opportunity to create more inclusive environments for everyone.

“Disabled people should be able to access and use buildings and public spaces without unnecessary barriers. Updating this standard is an opportunity to better reflect the diverse needs of disabled people. Creating more accessible environments also benefits older people, families with young children, and many others who use those spaces every day.”

Public consultation on the proposed revision is expected in late 2027, with publication of the revised standard anticipated in 2028. These timeframes may change as the work progresses.

For more information about the project including findings from the scoping exercise, visit the Whaikaha webpage on the revision of NZS 4121.

Revision of New Zealand Standard 4121:2001(external link) — Ministry of Disabled People