Ms Orquidea Tamayo Mortera, of Auckland, MNZM for services to diversional and recreational therapy and education
Orquidea Tamayo Mortera chairs the New Zealand Society of Diversional and Recreational Therapy. She has led growth to more than 1,000 members, organised national conferences and implemented support groups, training seminars and coaching. She was instrumental in getting NZQA approval of the New Zealand Diploma in Diversional and Recreational Therapy and a bachelor’s Degree in Diversional and Recreational Therapy. She has provided pro bono group and individual education for more than 1,000 diversional and recreational therapists nationally. She provides free education for communities and families. Ms Tamayo Mortera is co-chair of Allied Health Aotearoa and volunteers with various recreational therapy, aged care, mental health and multicultural organisations.