Celebrating Student Success!
NYPA Bound! Good Luck Neive!
We are thrilled to announce that our incredible junior teacher and senior dancer, Neive Davison, has been nominated to perform at the National Young Performer Awards (NYPA) in Modern Dance, taking place this October 24–26!
At just 15 years old, Neive is not only a passionate and hard-working student, but also a valued mentor to our younger dancers at Academy of Dance Taranaki. Her commitment to her craft and her beautiful energy in the studio make her a shining example of what it means to be part of the AOD family. She’ll be supported by her whānau, family friends, and of course her AOD teachers Sonia and Keana, along with our wider community of dancers and supporters.
💬 From Neive:
“I love creating a story through dance and just having fun on stage. After NYPA, I’m looking forward to continuing to grow as a dancer and supporting our younger students in the studio — something I truly enjoy doing.”
Dance Styles for Every Age and Stage
At Academy of Dance Taranaki, we offer something for every dancer! From the elegance and technique of Ballet, the energy and rhythm of Jazz, and the creativity of Contemporary, to the expression and storytelling of Musical Theatre and Drama. For those who love dynamic movement, our Hip Hop and Acro classes build strength, flexibility, and confidence.
Plus, our delightful Preschool Programs nurture a love of dance from the very first steps. No matter your child’s age or ability, we have a class that will inspire, challenge, and excite them.
Plus, our delightful Preschool Programs nurture a love of dance from the very first steps. No matter your child’s age or ability, we have a class that will inspire, challenge, and excite them.
AOD TARANAKI STUDIOS
Looking for the perfect space to rehearse, train, or host your next creative project? At Academy of Dance Taranaki, our purpose-built studios in New Plymouth and Hāwera are available for hire. With spacious layouts, professional sprung dance floors, mirrors, sound systems, and welcoming facilities, our studios provide an ideal environment for dancers, fitness instructors, theatre groups, and community events. Whether you need a one-off booking or a regular slot, we offer flexible options to suit your needs.
Dance by Age groups
At Academy of Dance Taranaki, we offer classes for every age and stage. From our preschool programs starting at 1 year old, to specialised training for teens and inspiring adult classes, there's a class for every dancer.
Our Ready Set Preschool Programs are specially designed to introduce little ones aged 1–5 to the joy of dance through fun, imaginative classes. With music, movement, and playful themes, these programs build confidence, coordination, and creativity while giving children the perfect first step into the world of dance.
Our School Age Programs are designed to inspire children aged 5–13 with the perfect balance of fun, technique, and creativity. From the strong foundations of Ballet and Jazz to the energy of Hip Hop, the storytelling of Musical Theatre and Drama, the flexibility of Acro, and the artistry of Contemporary, there’s something for every dancer. These classes help children build confidence, coordination, and resilience, while fostering a lifelong love of dance.
Our Teen Programs are all about more than just dance – they’re about helping young people discover who they are. Through styles like Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Ballet, Musical Theatre, Drama, and Acro, teens build strength, technique, and artistry while learning the value of teamwork, discipline, and creativity. These classes nurture confidence, resilience, and self-expression, fostering a love of dance and a deeper love of self in a supportive, like-minded community.
Our Adult Programs are designed for those ready to carve out time for themselves in today’s busy world. Whether you’re rediscovering a childhood passion or stepping into the studio for the first time, our adult classes offer the perfect mix of movement, music, and community. With styles ranging from Jazz and Hip Hop to Contemporary and STRUT, these classes are about more than dance – they’re about building confidence, strength, and joy while connecting with others who share the same love of movement.
AOD TEACHING TEAM
We are a group of Professional and highly qualified Dance instructors with many years of experience in both the technical and performance aspects of Dance. As a company, our focus is motivating and encouraging people of all abilities to embrace a love of life and of themselves through movement and expression.
“Skills and Confidence Flourishing”
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"My daughter has been attending classes at AOD for around 5 years now and absolutely loves it. I have watched her skill and confidence grow enormously. The teachers are supportive, talented, and passionate – we couldn’t ask for a better studio."
"My daughter has been attending classes at AOD for around 5 years now and absolutely loves it. I have watched her skill and confidence grow enormously. The teachers are supportive, talented, and passionate – we couldn’t ask for a better studio."
Valeen Maclennan
“Welcoming for New Families”
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"Fantastic! As a first-time dancer (my little girl) and first-time dance mum, I have found the support, communication, and organisation outstanding. The environment is so welcoming and inclusive – I couldn’t be happier."
"Fantastic! As a first-time dancer (my little girl) and first-time dance mum, I have found the support, communication, and organisation outstanding. The environment is so welcoming and inclusive – I couldn’t be happier."
Celia Haenga
“A Love of Music from the Very Beginning”
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"Amazing studio with classes for all ages. We have loved the 'Ready Set Move' class for our one-year-old, and I believe going each week has instilled in her a love of music and movement that will last forever."
"Amazing studio with classes for all ages. We have loved the 'Ready Set Move' class for our one-year-old, and I believe going each week has instilled in her a love of music and movement that will last forever."
Lindsay Schauer
“Stress-Free, Professional Shows”
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"Absolutely amazing show. Very well organised and not stressful for families. Great dance school – we are very happy with Sonia and her team."
"Absolutely amazing show. Very well organised and not stressful for families. Great dance school – we are very happy with Sonia and her team."
Deborah Baker
“Supportive and Inclusive Staff”
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"Excellent dance studio. Very supportive and inclusive staff. My daughter started this year at 9.5 years old having never danced before, and she has been welcomed so warmly. Her confidence has soared, and she loves every class."
"Excellent dance studio. Very supportive and inclusive staff. My daughter started this year at 9.5 years old having never danced before, and she has been welcomed so warmly. Her confidence has soared, and she loves every class."
Lisa Corrigan
Join the Academy of Dance Taranaki family today!
Give your child the chance to grow in confidence, make lifelong friends, and discover the joy of dance in a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment. With expert teachers, performance opportunities, and classes for all ages and abilities, there’s a place for everyone in our AOD community.
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