Mr Richard Benge, MNZM, of Wellington, for services to arts accessibility
Richard Benge is Executive Director of Arts Access Aotearoa (AAA), a not-for-profit organisation that facilitates inclusive access to the arts and culture for all people, irrespective of disability, age, ethnicity or circumstance.
Under his leadership, AAA has worked with the disability, mental health and Deaf communities and the professional arts sector to improve access for Deaf and disabled audiences.
AAA provides a national advisory and advocacy service and works with the Department of Corrections on its art programmes and activities.
Mr Benge has overseen the annual Arts Access Awards and has advocated for strategic investment in the arts and for art as a means to support vulnerable communities.