Festival Whānau

The New Zealand Dance Festival Trust

• Elisabeth Vaneveld (Chair)

• Richard Green

• Nancy Wijohn

• Sarah Tāhere

The New Zealand Dance Festival Trust, which operates Tempo Dance Festival - Te Rerenga o Tere, serves as a cornerstone for promoting and celebrating dance in Aotearoa.

Its primary purposes are:

To Nurture and Showcase Dance Talent

The Trust aims to support and develop Aotearoa's dance community by providing a platform for diverse dance forms, from contemporary and traditional to experimental and indigenous works. It seeks to nurture local talent and offer opportunities for artists to present their work to wider audiences.

To Engage and Inspire Communities

By organising festivals, workshops, and educational programmes, the Trust strives to connect with communities, inspire new audiences, and foster a deeper appreciation for dance. It plays a crucial role in making dance accessible, engaging, and inclusive, ensuring that the art form continues to thrive across generations.

To Champion Innovation and Excellence

The Trust is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of dance, encouraging innovative collaborations, and setting high standards of artistic excellence. It supports both emerging and established artists, creating an environment where creativity can flourish.

To Preserve and Celebrate Cultural Heritage

A significant part of the Trust's kaupapa is to honour the cultural heritage of Aotearoa, especially Māori and Pasifika dance traditions. By celebrating these art forms, the Trust contributes to the preservation and evolution of Aotearoa’s cultural landscape.