Morva Olwyn Croxson

Dr Morva Olwyn Croxson (née Jones) is a respected figure in New Zealand’s music therapy and education circles, known for her lifelong commitment to the arts and her leadership in both academic and community settings.

Born in 1934, she grew up in Hamilton and received her schooling in Dunedin before going on to study at several universities across the country. She graduated with a Bachelor of Music from the University of Auckland in 1965, followed by a Diploma of Teaching in 1979 and a Master of Philosophy in Education from Massey University in 1988. Her master’s thesis focused on how music therapy could support children with cerebral palsy.

In the early 1960s, Croxson and her family spent three years in the UK, where she earned a Fellowship in Piano Performance. On returning to New Zealand in 1965, the Croxsons settled in Palmerston North, where she began lecturing in teacher education at the Palmerston North College of Education (later merged with Massey University). Her work as an educator was deeply rooted in the belief that music could transform lives, especially for those with special needs.

Croxson was a strong advocate for music therapy throughout her career, helping to promote its use in schools and health settings. She played a key role in supporting the development of Massey University’s Master of Music Therapy programme, helping to establish the field more firmly in New Zealand.

In 1991, she joined the Massey University Council and, in 1998, became the first woman to be appointed Chancellor of the university. She held the role until 2002, guiding the university through a period of change with warmth and integrity. Her leadership style was known for being approachable and grounded, and she maintained strong connections with students and staff throughout her tenure.

Croxson’s influence extended well beyond the university. She was involved in a number of community and national organisations, including serving as a trustee of the Roy McKenzie Foundation and chairing the Massey University Christian Community Centre Trust. She was also a passionate advocate for women’s rights and was selected to give a graduation address at Massey in 1993 as part of the centenary celebrations of women’s suffrage in New Zealand.

One of her most memorable contributions to Palmerston North was organising and chairing Under the Sun, a large-scale musical production held in 1971 to mark the city’s centennial. The event brought together over 440 children, multiple orchestras, and choirs, and was widely praised for its creativity and community spirit.

In recognition of her service to the arts and the community, Croxson was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1995. She was made a life member of Music Therapy New Zealand in 1999, and Massey University awarded her an honorary Doctor of Literature in 2003.

Dr Croxson’s legacy is one of vision, compassion, and dedication. Her work in music therapy, education, and leadership continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps, both in Palmerston North and across Aotearoa.

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"Trailblazing women at Massey". Tāmiro. Massey University Library. Retrieved 15 July 2025.