Our Story - Recreate

Recreate NZ hosts a wide range of social, recreational, adventure and educational programmes, providing ‘life-changing experiences for youth with disabilities’ across Aotearoa.

Established in 2016, our educational and work skills programme MOXIE, an acronym for ‘meaningful opportunities x'ing into employment’, provides on-the-job learning and meaningful work experience that is coherent, relevant, and stimulating for our young people.

The MOXIE work experience programme partners with employers and potential employees to create a shared vision of success. Our vision is to facilitate good relationships, meaningful connections, purpose and inclusivity.

MOXIE’s biggest strength lies in trainees being well known to Recreate NZ, having participated in other activities, often from a young age. This ensures facilitators can identify their strengths and challenges and can confidently advocate their ability when working with employers. Our process is organised but flexible, allowing for the different needs of people, businesses, and skill requirements.

Since 2022, Recreate NZ has partnered with the Simplicity Foundation to invest in the MOXIE work experience programme. Here is an example of a recent success story, which exemplifies the profound impact that meaningful employment can have on young people and their support network.

Work placement



Cameron Green, a trainee in our MOXIE work experience programme, had a transformative journey at Daily Bread, a renowned bakery in Point Chevalier, Auckland. During his ten-shift placement, Cameron took on various tasks such as weighing and cutting sourdough, preparing hotdog buns, and working with proving baskets. He received tools and guidance to practice at home, with family involvement emphasised for continued success.

Cameron's dedication and growth led to him being offered a part-time role supporting the Head Baker at Daily Bread, thanks to the skills he developed during his placement. He now commutes independently and looks forward to expanding his experience with the team. Cayleigh Torkler, Cameron's Recreate NZ facilitator, witnessed his progress while supporting him to achieve his goal of gaining employment.

“Cameron was absolutely thrived on his work placement at Daily Bread”, Cayleigh says.

“He began with a slightly nervous excitement and took on each new learning opportunity with his characteristic enthusiasm. I saw him gain confidence each week, both in his role and in his relationships with the other team members.”

“The moment he signed his contract was an emotional one. There were tears of pride around the table as Cameron's family and new bosses congratulated him on this awesome milestone. It really drove home that these opportunities have an immeasurable impact on not only the young person involved but also their wider whanau. It is an opportunity that has changed Cameron's life hugely and I feel humbled to be a part of that journey.”

Cameron's family expressed their gratitude for the opportunity

Cameron’s Dad says, “I could not be happier for Cameron with the success of this work placement at Daily Bread. It was such a surprise and a great feeling for all of us when Rhys and Patrick offered Cameron some part time work and the potential of a future with Daily Bread. It's difficult to fully describe just how much this means to Cameron, it is without a doubt the highlight of his week and he is so proud of his work, as are we.”

“I would like to sincerely thank all involved in the MOXIE team who have helped getting Cameron this far and changing his outlook on life."

Patrick Welzenbach, Co-Founder of Daily Bread, has thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

“We are absolutely thrilled with Cameron's performance at Daily Bread! It's been over a month since he joined, and he's been doing an amazing job. Not only has he been doing a fantastic job with his tasks, but his helpful and friendly nature has also made him a favourite among his colleagues. Everyone enjoys working with him!”

Cameron’s success is just one example of the amazing outcomes we are seeing in our MOXIE work experience programme. We are so grateful for our partnership with Simplicity Foundation. Your support has made it possible for Recreate NZ to introduce MOXIE work experience programme throughout Aotearoa, and to enable more rangitahi to enter the workforce and find meaningful employment.