24-27th October 2025
Join us this 24th to 27th October for a West African musical immersion at our annual NZ Drum Dance Camp.
Set amidst 38 acres of native bushland just a short drive from Wellington, this weekend is a celebration of unity, rhythm and the transformative spirit of African drum and dance! Curated mindfully and with enthusiasm for the NZ African drumming community.
Experience Highlights:
♪ Djembe and Dunun Workshops: Suitable for all skill levels, from enthusiastic beginners to advanced drummers,
guided by our awesome team of teachers.
♪ Traditional Dance: with the effervescent Epizo Bangoura.
♪ Group Jams and Musical Sessions: Strengthen communal bonds through captivating group jams and impromptu
musical sessions.
♪ Tranquil Setting: Enjoy the native bushland environ – build mind, body and spirit whilst enhancing our weekend of
music and togetherness.
♪ Delicious Catering: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included for Sat & Sunday.
♪ Please bring a shared plate for Friday dinner and light easy to make Breakfast Monday (kitchen facilities limited)
With multiple teachers and multiple learning groups, this camp will accommodate drummers of all levels, ensuring everyone benefits from our fantastic line up of teachers.
Location
Camp Kaitoke Education Centre
184 Marchant Road
Upper Hutt 5018
♪ Comfortable bunk-style log cabins
♪ Camp sites available if preferred (rate remains the same)
♪ Large performance hall with fireplace
♪ Bonfire area
Programme
♪ FRIDAY – 24 OCTOBER 2025
Arrive from 4pm – a warm welcome sets the stage for a weekend filled with rhythm and learning. We’ll also enjoy some good ol’ fashion jamming – plenty of melodic exploration so bring your Ngoni, Mbira etc.
♪ SATURDAY – 25 OCTOBER 2025
Engage in enriching drum and dance workshops. Participants will be grouped into their appropriate levels.
♪ SUNDAY – 26 OCTOBER 2025
Continue your musical journey with drum and dance sessions, leading to a group performance which encapsulates the weekend’s shared experiences.
♪ MONDAY – 27 OCTOBER 2025
Morning, all-in drum and dance ceremony, then it’s time to hit the road!
Rates:
♪ Early Bird: $450 (Reserve by 31st July 2025)
♪ Full rate: $495
♪ Single Day & Night: $220 (includes full day tuition and 3 meals, available on Saturday or Sunday)
♪ Kids 15 and under: $150
♪ Drum Hire: $15
Family Packages available on request*
FAQs
What should I bring?
♪ Djembe drum if you have one, if not, you can hire one for $15
♪ Snacks for the weekend
♪ Dance appropriate shoes (there are concrete floors)
♪ Sleeping gear (pillowcase & sheet, sleeping bag/duvet) bag and pillow
♪ Warm clothes
♪ Comfortable clothing to dance/move in
♪ Evening cosy clothes for jams/camp fire sessions
♪ Togs (if you feel brave enough to dip in the creek!)
♪ Rain coat and gumboots/boots/sturdy shoes (if forecast looks wet)
♪ Toiletries/Towel & Personal Medications
♪ Shared plate of Kai for Friday evening, light breakfast for Monday morning (there are no cooking facilities for self catering so think simple on the go breakfast)
♪ An eager spirit!
I’m an absolute beginner, can I come along?
Definitely! Our camp is a nurturing space for newcomers to discover the joy of African drumming and dance, bolstered by a supportive community.
Bookings
Family and group rates are available – please ask!
For more information and to secure your spot in this transformative celebration of rhythm and community, contact Tulletha at nzafricandrumming@gmail.com or call: 028 474 1123
Get your ticket here, we can’t wait for you to join us!
Meet your teachers
Epizo Bangoura
A master of the djembe and traditional dance, Epizo brings profound knowledge and vibrant energy, embodying the essence of West African music and dance.
Yaw Asumadu
A Master Drummer from Ghana, Yaw has performed globally and taught African drumming for 25 years, collaborating with legendary artists.
Simon Fraser
Founder of African Drumming, Simon has been performing, recording, and teaching since the 1990’s. Simon is a renowned tour curator and excited to be back in NZ.
