NZSDRT Inc 30th National Conference

Ōtautahi Christchurch 2026 - He Māra Tangata — A Garden of People

Christchurch, widely known as the Garden City, inspires this year’s conference theme. A garden is a place of diversity, care, and thoughtful nurturing. In many ways, it reflects the people we support in our work: each individual bringing their own story, culture, strengths, and life experiences.

As Diversional and Recreational Therapists, we help create spaces where people can flourish. Our work often focuses on growth and wellbeing, but this year’s theme invites us to pause and appreciate the beauty of what we do. Through meaningful engagement, creativity, and connection, we add colour, dignity, and joy to people’s lives — truly living out He Māra Tangata — A Garden of People.

Supporting Members to Attend: Installment Payment Options

Alongside the launch of the conference theme Ōtautahi Christchurch 2026 – He Māra Tangata — A Garden of People, the NZSDRT Board is introducing a new initiative to help make conference attendance more accessible.

We understand that conference costs can add up, and planning ahead financially can sometimes be challenging. To support members, installment payment options are now available, allowing the registration fee to be spread across several months. This approach makes it easier to plan while still giving members the opportunity to take part in this valuable professional development event.

Installment Options

Early Bird Installment Plan (March – July)

Members can secure the early bird rate while spreading the cost over five monthly payments.

Benefits include:

• Maintaining the early bird discounted rate

• Smaller, more manageable monthly payments

• Easier financial planning

Monthly Payments

• Registered DRTh: $170 per month (Total $850)

• Members: $190 per month (Total $950)

• Non-Members: $240 per month (Total $1,200)

Extended Installment Plan (March – December)

For those who prefer a longer payment period, the cost can be spread over ten months based on the standard conference pricing.

Benefits include:

• A longer payment timeframe

• Greater flexibility for budgeting

• More time to organise travel and accommodation

Monthly Payments

• Registered DRTh: $100 per month (Total $1,000)

• Members: $120 per month (Total $1,200)

• Non-Members: $150 per month (Total $1,500)

Why the Board Introduced This Initiative

One of the most common challenges for members wanting to attend conference is the large upfront cost. By offering installment options, the NZSDRT Board hopes to remove this barrier and make participation more achievable.

Spreading payments over time allows members to:

• Plan ahead more comfortably

• Reduce financial pressure

• Access important professional development opportunities

Planning Ahead

Members are also encouraged to start conversations early with their managers or organisations. Many workplaces are willing to support professional development when they understand the benefits.

Attending conference can help to:

• Strengthen professional practice

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

• Support certification and audit preparation

• Bring fresh ideas and programmes back to the facility

The NZSDRT conference is also a special chance to:

• Reconnect with colleagues

• Learn from leaders in the field

• Celebrate the incredible work happening across our profession

With these new installment options and early planning, we hope even more members will be able to join us in Ōtautahi Christchurch 2026 - He Māra Tangata — A Garden of People.