When I was asked by Gabriela to write an acknowledgement of Peter MacGeorge as an Elder, it was somewhat daunting. I met Peter only once or twice when I was trying to become a member of NZAP back in the 90s. The Association seemed rather exclusive, partly because of earlier issues with the Centrepoint Community, and also from a wish to increase NZAP’s professional standing. I knew no one from the Association and at that time you had to be nominated by a member. I had been unsuccessful in finding a way in until it was suggested I talk to Peter. We meet at the then Auckland Family Counselling and Psychotherapy on Owens Rd. Immediately I felt at ease and that Peter both accepted and understood my difficulties and was willing to actively support and encourage me. That is a theme that has reoccurred many times as I have talked with others about him. “Encouraging and not elitist“ was a phrase often used, and a psychiatrist colleague described him as “supportive and encouraging to a very inexperienced beginner therapist” whom she “admired as a human being.”

Peter was on Council from 1982-1989 and President from 1987-1988.He was awarded the Distinguished Service Award (DSA) in 2004, and his many achievements are written on his citation, as well as in Brian and Ruth Manchester’s ‘Notes Towards a History of NZAP’. Along with Jonathon Fay he worked on the NZAP Standards for Supervision and is described as “multi-talented and smart with a big heart”. He was also instrumental in writing the Code of Ethics for NZAP.  Peter was a catalyst for NZAP and had many strings to his bow, both as a psychotherapist and as a child and adolescent psychiatrist. And this at a time was when many psychiatrists might have been seen to be more focused on medications than the unconscious processes.

Roy Bowden writes: “Peter’s wise words during important debates at conferences often served to settle confusion and light the path ahead. He could present papers and workshops addressing what we chose to call ‘the unconscious’, using captivating words. Peter guided us through an era when individual freedom of expression was popular to the extent it was often difficult to keep structure and boundaries secure. He often suggested we return to what would be best for clients and the advancement of a healthy vision for the Association……. Peter was accompanied by his wife Sue who edited the Association newsletter and was our innovative and dedicated secretary. In many ways their partnership highlighted insights and energy which Peter took into his Presidency and leadership. It was no surprise that beyond Peter’s involvement within the NZAP, he became an admired advocate for effective and well-resourced mental health in Aotearoa.”

After he left Aotearoa he practiced in Australia for many years and was highly regarded by his peers there. He passed away on 27^th March this year (2025) and is a great loss to the world of mental health where he made a massive impact, always advocating for clients and patients. Peter was a psychotherapist of vision, wisdom, and a deep dedication, who made a valuable contribution to NZAP and helped to develop its structure and values.

But what I heard more of was about Peter the man. He has been described as a “true gentleman” who had a warm presence and who could be trusted and enjoy time with. Peter was frequently described to me as someone with a great sense of humour. Several psychotherapists whom I contacted remember an NZAP conference when Peter asked everyone who had not gained School Certificate to stand on one side of the room. There was a flood of people! He made his point about education, which was later to become a musical performance entitled ‘I did not sit (sic)School C’ much to the delight of the audience. And there was also a performance of “The Bold Gendarmes’ written by Roy Bowden featuring other NZAP notables, which suggested they stuffed it up at school.

His musical talents were mentioned often to me along with his use of humour to put people at ease, and his compassion and creative energy. Louise de Lambert remembers her first attendance at psychotherapy meeting having newly arrived from Britain where the profession was more formal. Peter was sitting playing his guitar and singing “If I had a hammer” It was something of a culture shock to find such informality in the Association. She found him a warm and engaging man, whom she liked despite their sometimes difference of ideas. Peter seemed to have that great ability to put people at ease among many different groups and be himself which made him easy to like and respect.

Peter will remain in our memories and stories for a long time as a warm, creative, and very special man.