24-27th October 2025
Sessions
Join us from 24-27th October for a journey deep into the vibrant heart of Northern Ghana and Guinea at our annual NZ Drum Dance Camp. This long weekend is not just an event but a celebration of unity, rhythm, and the soul-stirring power of African drum and dance, curated 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 distinguished instructors.
- Group Jams and Musical Sessions: Strengthen communal bonds through captivating group jams and impromptu musical sessions.
- Tranquil Setting: Enhancing our weekend of music and togetherness.
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
Big communal kitchen with utensils and cutlery
Large performance hall with fireplace
Bonfire area
Programme
FRIDAY – 24 OCTOBER 2025
5:00pm – 7:00pm – Arrive and settle in. Meet and greet.
7:00pm – 9:00pm – Introductions and all in workshop.
9:00pm onwards : Socialising and good ol’ fashion jamming – Plenty of melodic exploration so bring your Ngoni, Mbira etc
SATURDAY – 25 OCTOBER 2025
10:00am – 12:30pm – Group breakaway sessions – Drumming
12:30pm – 2:00pm – Lunch
2:00pm – 3:15pm – All in DunDun Workshop
3:30pm – 5:00pm – Group breakaway – Drumming
5:30pm – 6:30pm – African Dance
7:30pm – 8:00 pm – Communal dinner.
8pm Onwards – Time for jams and socialisation.
SUNDAY – 26 OCTOBER 2025
10:00am – 11:15am – All-in DunDun Workshop
11:30am – 1:00pm – Group breakaway – Drumming
1:00pm – 2:30pm – Lunch
2:30pm – 5:00pm – Group breakaway sessions – Drumming
5:30pm – 6:30pm – African Dance
7:30pm – 8:00pm – Communal dinner
8:00pm onwards – Jam and social time
MONDAY – 27 OCTOBER 2025
10:00 – 10:30 – Final group performance of rhythms we have learnt over the weekend.
10:30 – 12:30 – Pack up and depart.
Heads up! We’re still fine-tuning the schedule, some details may change.
Rates
Payable as cash on the weekend, full information coming soon!
FAQs
What should I bring?
-A drum if you have one, if not you can hire one for $10
-BYO food/drinks (Venue has a large commercial kitchen) *Except for Sunday night communal dinner if you choose to join us (please book in early)
-Shoes to dance in
-Sleeping bag and pillow
-Warm clothes
I’m an absolute beginner, can I come along?
Sure! We welcome beginners and our sessions will suit you. It’s a great chance to mingle with those who have been drumming longer and pick up tips and tricks from peers.
Bookings
Family and group rates are available – please ask us for more info
For more info contact:
