What We Do

Who We Are

We are the voice of Recreation in Aotearoa, representing all professionals in the industry. We empower our members to deliver the quality Recreation experiences, places and facilities, that fuel a more active, healthy and connected NZ.

What We Do

We work at an agency, industry and professional level to build capability, develop partnerships, and equip individuals and organisations with the skills they need to deliver high quality recreation experiences that engage participants. Our vision is to ReCreate a nation.

Governance Structure

We are a charitable body governed by a national board of seven people. Four board positions are elected by the membership and three positions are appointed by the Board Appointments Panel.

Our local networks and service delivery is governed by six regional committees. Separate advisory groups and committees have been established to support the development and delivery of our programmes.

Recreation Aotearoa Represents

We work for the benefit of New Zealanders by building capability and networks within the recreation workforce, raising awareness of best practice, and advocating for the benefits of recreation, recreation investment and a highly skilled recreation workforce that meets the needs and expectations of participants. The recreation industry encompasses the people, places, organisations and processes that enable recreation experiences to occur. Our areas of focus, within this definition of the industry, are the parks and open spaces, community recreation, outdoors, aquatics, and facility-based recreation sectors.

Recreation Aotearoa Members

Our membership is made up of recreation policy makers, territorial local authorities, voluntary organisations, regional sports trusts and Department of Conservation employees. Other members include commercial leisure providers, recreation planners, facility managers, programme and event managers, community arts leaders, outdoor recreation businesses, and others involved in the delivery of recreation in New Zealand. Many members facilitate community recreation through the delivery of programmes and events. These help create environments which enhance community wellbeing, including after school programmes, programmes for people with disabilities, older adult programmes, holiday programmes and therapeutic rehabilitation programmes.

Read the Recreation Aotearoa Constitution

Recreation Aotearoa is a registered charity championing high quality recreation for the benefit of New Zealand. Our work improves recreation through a work programme that includes advocacy, the advancement of education in recreation and leisure, and efforts to encourage the conservation and efficient use of natural resources and the safe administration of recreation spaces.

Championing High Quality Recreation For Individuals And Communities

Recreation is fundamental to our physical and psychological well-being. Recreation Aotearoa champions high quality recreation opportunities for individuals and communities by building capability in the sector. By informing and educating individuals and communities about the importance of recreation, and by increasing participation, we can help them to become more resilient, achieve their goals and lead happier lives.

Advocating For Healthy, Connected Communities

Recreation Aotearoaadvocates for investment in the recreation sector, so that people across the country can access quality recreation services and stay active and connected. We do this by building constructive relationships with key stakeholders at both a national and international level; by helping local, regional and national bodies work more collaboratively; and by providing information and advice to stakeholders in New Zealand and overseas to enhance their understanding of the value of recreation.

Increasing Recreation Opportunities For Individuals And Communities

To ensure New Zealanders are getting the most from existing recreational opportunities, we need to understand demand and expectations, while anticipating future needs. Recreation Aotearoadoes this by working with relevant stakeholders to ensure access to data and other insights that can positively influence decisions at both a local and national level.

Upholding Consistent Professional Standards For Staff And Users

A vibrant recreational sector that benefits individuals and communities relies on the well-being and professionalism of staff and volunteers. Recreation Aotearoapromotes and facilitates the provision of training opportunities and information sharing. Through our commitment to ethics, quality standards, best practice, benchmarking and professional development, we seek to improve knowledge and conditions for recreation workers and, in turn, participants' experiences.


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