MEDANZ | February 2026 Update

Dear MEDANZ Members

Over the past two months, our focus has been firmly on the preparation and organisation of the MEDANZ Festival 2026 in Orewa, Auckland over Anzac Weekend.

I would like to sincerely thank everyone who registered early and purchased Early Bird tickets. Your support allowed us to reach our financial target, ensuring the festival could confidently proceed. It was wonderful to see teachers registering to offer workshops, and dancers from all over New Zealand expressing interest in performing on the Open Stage and at the Hafla. The momentum has truly built, and now, just over two months out from the festival in Orewa, we are pleased to present to our membership what promises to be an exciting and inspiring weekend of dance and connection — which remains the core purpose of hosting this annual festival.

Tickets for all events are still available here: https://www.medanz.org.nz/events/festival/

I have been working to secure a suitable agreement with a photographer for the Open Stage evening. The final details will be discussed at our February committee meeting. In addition, I have prepared promotional material to support advertising across our social media platforms, including the workshop schedule and features on the talented teachers participating in the festival.

We are making excellent progress and are all excited and grateful for the positive response and enthusiasm shown by our members.

This year’s Annual General Meeting will take place at Orewa College on Saturday 25th April. We encourage as many members as possible to attend, participate in voting, and contribute to decisions that shape the future of the association.

MEDANZ cannot exist or grow without the dedication of its volunteers and members. It is, and will always be, a collective effort built on willingness, collaboration, and shared passion.

Further communications and logistical updates will be shared as we approach the festival. Our goal is for everyone to feel informed, involved, and excited — and ultimately to experience a rewarding and joyful festival weekend together.

Kind regards,

Raffaella

President, MEDANZ

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