Diversional and Recreational Therapy in Aotearoa New Zealand A Snap-Shot

This paper overviews the current state of diversional and recreational therapy as practiced in Aotearoa New Zealand. Aotearoa New Zealand is a culturally diverse western nation located in the lower South Pacific. A population analysis of Aotearoa New Zealand is offered to highlight and contextualize areas where diversional and recreational therapy may have impact. This is followed by a summary of the main theoretical principles under-pinning the practice of diversional and recreational therapy and the nature of special populations in New Zealand. Lastly the paper concludes by listing emerging and future plans to enhance diversional and recreational therapy in Aotearoa.