32nd National Diversional & Recreational Therapy (DRT) Week from September 18-24, 2024!

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This year’s theme is “Vibrance: Painting a Brighter Diversional & Recreational Therapy,” celebrating the colorful and transformative impact of DRT across Aotearoa.

Let’s raise awareness, share our stories, and showcase the vital role DRT plays in enhancing lives. Whether you’re hosting a session, sharing a personal experience, or creating something vibrant, your contribution matters. Together, we can make New Zealand brighter, one color at a time.

On the 18th of September 1992, the incorporation of the New Zealand Society of Diversional Therapists was confirmed under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908. Since then, every 18th of September, we celebrate our National Diversional and Recreational Therapy Day, followed by six days known as National Diversional and Recreational Therapy Awareness Week. During this week, Diversional and
Recreational Therapy professionals all over Aotearoa celebrate and raise awareness of the essential role we play in the New Zealand Health Care System.

As we mark another year of enhancing people’s quality of life through Diversional and Recreational Therapy, we invite everyone to join us in “Vibrance: Painting a Brighter Diversional & Recreational Therapy.” This year’s theme emphasizes the vibrant and transformative impact of our work, much like the diverse colours of a rainbow. Each hue represents a unique element of well-being, and together they form a complete spectrum of care and support that brightens lives. Let us stand united to advocate for the vital role we play in New Zealand’s healthcare system. Raise awareness about the value of our practice and encourage everyone to participate in ways that enhance
the quality of life for the people we serve, including ourselves, through therapeutic recreation.

Like the colours of the rainbow blending harmoniously, the past years have shown us the strength and beauty of unity amidst diversity. This year’s theme highlights the importance of coming together to create a more vibrant, inclusive, and healthy Aotearoa through diversional and recreational therapy.