Accessibility

The standard we build to

We aim to meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at Level AA. This is the same standard the New Zealand Government Web Accessibility Standard requires of public sector websites, and we think it is a reasonable bar for a private business too.

What we have done

• Colour contrast. Body text, headings and buttons are checked against WCAG AA contrast ratios. We do not use pale grey text on white.
• Keyboard access. Every link, button, menu and form field can be reached and used with a keyboard alone, and there is a visible focus outline so you can see where you are.
• Structure. Pages use real headings in order, real lists, and real landmarks, so screen readers can navigate and skim them properly.
• Text alternatives. Images that carry meaning have descriptive alt text. Decorative images are hidden from screen readers so they do not add noise.
• Zoom and reflow. The site reflows to a single column and stays usable at 200% zoom and on small screens without horizontal scrolling.
• Motion. We honour the reduce motion setting on your device and switch off transitions and smooth scrolling when it is on.
• Forms. Every field has a visible, permanently associated label — not just placeholder text that disappears when you start typing.
• Plain language. We explain drainage terms the first time we use them, and we keep sentences short.

Known limitations

We would rather be honest about the gaps than claim full compliance:

• Some older photographs on the site have brief alt text that describes the subject but not every detail in the image.
• Third-party tools embedded on the site, such as call tracking, are not fully under our control and may not meet the same standard.
• PDF documents, where we publish them, may not be fully tagged for screen readers. Ask us and we will supply the content as accessible HTML or plain text.

Getting the same information another way

If any part of this site does not work for you, you do not have to fight with it. Call 09 555 6666 and we will take your details and answer your questions over the phone. We can also send information by email in plain text, or in a larger print format, at no charge.

If you use the New Zealand Relay service, we accept relay calls like any other call.

Tell us about a problem

If you hit an accessibility barrier, please email contact@blockeddrainsauckland.co.nz with the page address and what went wrong. It genuinely helps to know which browser, device and assistive technology you were using, but tell us even if you do not know.

We will acknowledge your message within 2 working days and tell you what we can do and when. If we cannot fix something quickly, we will give you a way to get the same information or service in the meantime.

Accessibility is also covered by the Human Rights Commission, which handles complaints about discrimination on the basis of disability in the supply of goods and services.