Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL
When and where is Harp Fest NZ 2026 taking place?
Harp Fest NZ 2026 takes place from 3 to 6 April 2026 in Auckland, New Zealand. The venue for the festival is Dilworth Senior Campus, Erin Street, Newmarket/Epsom, Auckland.
How do I keep in touch with what is happening at Harp Fest 2026?
Sign up to our mailing list here and you will receive regular updates about the festival direct to your email inbox. Newsletters are currently sent monthly – and remember to check your junk folder in case the email has found its way there!
When and where is Harp Fest NZ 2026 taking place?
Harp Fest NZ 2026 takes place from 3 to 6 April 2026 in Auckland, New Zealand. The venue for the festival is Dilworth Senior Campus, Erin Street, Newmarket/Epsom, Auckland.
How do I keep in touch with what is happening at Harp Fest 2026?
Sign up to our mailing list here and you will receive regular updates about the festival direct to your email inbox. Newsletters are currently sent monthly – and remember to check your junk folder in case the email has found its way there!
|
TICKETING - check it out here!
When are tickets available for purchase? Early bird tickets for the full festival weekend are on sale from 5 January to 15 February 2026. Tickets for the concerts only will be available for sale from 5 January 2026. Regular price tickets are available from 16 February 2026. There are capacity limits for some rooms at the venue for daytime sessions. Names can be added to a waiting list if a course reaches capacity. What does an early bird ticket include? The Weekend Day Pass includes access to workshops, masterclasses (as observer), talks and afternoon concerts on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The Weekend Day Pass does not include tickets for the Saturday and Sunday evening concerts, which can be purchased separately. All Weekend Day Pass ticket holders will also receive an invitation to the exclusive opening event of Harp Fest NZ 2026 on Friday evening, 3 April 2026. (The opening event is not open to the public) Can I book additional concert tickets when I get my early bird ticket? Additional concert tickets will be available for purchase at the same time as early bird ticket sales open. Is concession pricing available for tickets? Concessions are available for children aged 13 years and under, senior citizens (65+) and secondary/tertiary students (13+) with valid ID. What are the requirements for a child who plans to attend the event? Harp Fest NZ 2026 is committed to providing a safe and positive environment for all young harpists. We look forward to welcoming children to the event and want them to be fully involved. There are workshops and activities at all levels. If the child is under 14 years on 3 April 2026, or older at the parent’s discretion, a weekend pass needs to be purchased for the child, and the accompanying adult will need to by concert tickets to attend with the child. Children 13 years or under are to be always under the care of a parent or another adult during the festival. The parent or caregiver who must always remain on site and be contactable by mobile phone if needed. Please read the 'Care of a Minor' policy below to understand our terms and conditions regarding having a child under 14 years onsite. I am not able to attend the full weekend. Can I purchase a day pass? Priority ticketing will be given to early bird full weekend passes. Day passes, if available, will be advertised from 1 March 2026. |
|
VENUE
What is the address for Dilworth School?
Dilworth Senior Campus is located at 2 Erin Street, Epsom, Auckland 1051.
Is the festival mobility accessible?
Most of the event locations are mobility accessible however some classrooms have entry stairs, which may preclude mobility access. When registering, limited accessibility will be identified and the opportunity for an attendee to provide information about accessibility requirements will be available.
Disability and Support people
We will work to ensure the best possible experience for all our participants. Please let us know in advance if you have hearing, vision or mobility needs or require support or assistance. Please also let us know if you are accompanied by a service dog.
You may bring a support person with you if you need someone to move your harp or assist you to your next session, however the support person may not attend any sessions, workshops or concerts unless they purchase a weekend day pass or an
afternoon concert ticket.
Is accommodation available onsite?
Harp Fest NZ 2026 does not provide accommodation for attendees. There is no accommodation available onsite.
Is food available onsite?
There will be the option for you to order lunches and pizza dinners from a limited daily menu when you register for Harp Fest. We are a very small, dedicated committee running this event, and while we will ensure there are options for the main food preferences such as vegetarian, gluten free and nut free.
Insurance
HarpFest NZ 2026 will have public liability insurance but does not carry any insurance for personal items.
What is the address for Dilworth School?
Dilworth Senior Campus is located at 2 Erin Street, Epsom, Auckland 1051.
Is the festival mobility accessible?
Most of the event locations are mobility accessible however some classrooms have entry stairs, which may preclude mobility access. When registering, limited accessibility will be identified and the opportunity for an attendee to provide information about accessibility requirements will be available.
Disability and Support people
We will work to ensure the best possible experience for all our participants. Please let us know in advance if you have hearing, vision or mobility needs or require support or assistance. Please also let us know if you are accompanied by a service dog.
You may bring a support person with you if you need someone to move your harp or assist you to your next session, however the support person may not attend any sessions, workshops or concerts unless they purchase a weekend day pass or an
afternoon concert ticket.
Is accommodation available onsite?
Harp Fest NZ 2026 does not provide accommodation for attendees. There is no accommodation available onsite.
Is food available onsite?
There will be the option for you to order lunches and pizza dinners from a limited daily menu when you register for Harp Fest. We are a very small, dedicated committee running this event, and while we will ensure there are options for the main food preferences such as vegetarian, gluten free and nut free.
Insurance
HarpFest NZ 2026 will have public liability insurance but does not carry any insurance for personal items.
PROGRAMME
What can I expect in the programme?
The programme will feature guest harpists and teachers from around the world, as well as from New Zealand, for concerts, workshops, talks and masterclasses. As details of the programme are finalised, they will be included on the website.
What can I expect in a workshop?
Each workshop presenter has unique interests and skills relating to the harp. As an attendee, you will leave the workshop with new or re-visited skills that you have learnt during the workshop. Many workshops will have a hands-on component however, as not everyone attending may have access to a harp, our workshop presenters will incorporate aspects in their workshops which provide learning with or without a harp. Details about each workshop will include the suggested ability level for attendees.
What can I expect in a panel discussion?
A panel discussion will have three or more local and/or international panel members who will discuss a particular topic relating to the harp, such as technique, music, etc.
We will also be offering talks and presentations by our invited guests and speaker. All topics and workshop subjects will be listed in advance of early bird ticket sales.
What is a masterclass?
A masterclass is an opportunity for a student to play a work for a master teacher, in a performance situation and in front of an audience. The intention is to provide a learning opportunity for the student as well as the audience/observers.
What is the difference between a harp lesson and a masterclass?
A lesson is usually regular one-on-one instruction with a teacher, who will develop the student’s technical ability to play the harp, allocate suitable pieces and exercises to improve musicality, and plan for the student’s ongoing progress. In a masterclass, a teacher works with the student in front of an audience. Like a performance, the student will perform their piece uninterrupted. The master teacher will then address the student, as well as the audience, and may explore interpretation and technical issues, which affect every player of that instrument.
Who can register as a masterclass student?
Any attendee at Harp Fest NZ 2023 can register as a student for a masterclass. Masterclasses will be offered from Grade 3 to advanced. Depending on interest, an audition process may be required for masterclass students.
Can I attend a masterclass just to observe?
We would encourage everyone to attend at least one masterclass. As an observer you will not only appreciate listening to performances of works but also learn about the work and how to perform it from the teacher.
What is the benefit of a masterclass?
A master teacher can inspire performers and audience members alike with their interpretation of the music and provide technical suggestions that can be actioned by everyone in attendance.
How do I prepare for a masterclass?
To prepare for a masterclass, ensure your piece is performance ready and you know the score thoroughly. Number the bars for reference. Be prepared to stop and start as requested by the teacher. Clearly mark any lever or pedal settings through the piece to ensure you can re-start at any point through the piece. Be prepared to accept instruction in front of an audience and to respond in an open and engaging way. Your technique, sound, and overall performance are likely to be considered. Acknowledge that you will receive input from a teacher who may be very different from your regular teacher. After the class, take time to practice what you have learned.
Is it possible to change my workshop selection?
The number of attendees at a workshop is limited by the room size. Any request to change a workshop selection will be dependent on the number already booked to attend your requested selection.
How long are the concerts?
The afternoon concerts feature one guest performer and are 45 minutes in length. The evening concerts are 90 minutes in length and will feature two solo or group performances.
What can I expect in the programme?
The programme will feature guest harpists and teachers from around the world, as well as from New Zealand, for concerts, workshops, talks and masterclasses. As details of the programme are finalised, they will be included on the website.
What can I expect in a workshop?
Each workshop presenter has unique interests and skills relating to the harp. As an attendee, you will leave the workshop with new or re-visited skills that you have learnt during the workshop. Many workshops will have a hands-on component however, as not everyone attending may have access to a harp, our workshop presenters will incorporate aspects in their workshops which provide learning with or without a harp. Details about each workshop will include the suggested ability level for attendees.
What can I expect in a panel discussion?
A panel discussion will have three or more local and/or international panel members who will discuss a particular topic relating to the harp, such as technique, music, etc.
We will also be offering talks and presentations by our invited guests and speaker. All topics and workshop subjects will be listed in advance of early bird ticket sales.
What is a masterclass?
A masterclass is an opportunity for a student to play a work for a master teacher, in a performance situation and in front of an audience. The intention is to provide a learning opportunity for the student as well as the audience/observers.
What is the difference between a harp lesson and a masterclass?
A lesson is usually regular one-on-one instruction with a teacher, who will develop the student’s technical ability to play the harp, allocate suitable pieces and exercises to improve musicality, and plan for the student’s ongoing progress. In a masterclass, a teacher works with the student in front of an audience. Like a performance, the student will perform their piece uninterrupted. The master teacher will then address the student, as well as the audience, and may explore interpretation and technical issues, which affect every player of that instrument.
Who can register as a masterclass student?
Any attendee at Harp Fest NZ 2023 can register as a student for a masterclass. Masterclasses will be offered from Grade 3 to advanced. Depending on interest, an audition process may be required for masterclass students.
Can I attend a masterclass just to observe?
We would encourage everyone to attend at least one masterclass. As an observer you will not only appreciate listening to performances of works but also learn about the work and how to perform it from the teacher.
What is the benefit of a masterclass?
A master teacher can inspire performers and audience members alike with their interpretation of the music and provide technical suggestions that can be actioned by everyone in attendance.
How do I prepare for a masterclass?
To prepare for a masterclass, ensure your piece is performance ready and you know the score thoroughly. Number the bars for reference. Be prepared to stop and start as requested by the teacher. Clearly mark any lever or pedal settings through the piece to ensure you can re-start at any point through the piece. Be prepared to accept instruction in front of an audience and to respond in an open and engaging way. Your technique, sound, and overall performance are likely to be considered. Acknowledge that you will receive input from a teacher who may be very different from your regular teacher. After the class, take time to practice what you have learned.
Is it possible to change my workshop selection?
The number of attendees at a workshop is limited by the room size. Any request to change a workshop selection will be dependent on the number already booked to attend your requested selection.
How long are the concerts?
The afternoon concerts feature one guest performer and are 45 minutes in length. The evening concerts are 90 minutes in length and will feature two solo or group performances.
HARP AND GEAR
Do I need a harp at Harp Fest 2026?
If you can bring your own harp, please do. Workshops will include a hands-on harp component. For attendees who do not have access to a harp, we have asked our presenters and tutors to ensure there is a component in the workshop for those without harps. Presentations, talks and concerts will not require you having a harp unless you are participating as a performer/teacher.
Can I hire a harp for the festival?
A limited number of harps will be available for hire for the weekend. Priority will be given to harpists who are travelling distances. Hire harps must remain within the venue and cannot be taken away from the venue. Hire harp requests can be made on registration.
Can I store my harp overnight at the festival venue?
Harp storage is available in a large common room for personal harps of attendees at the festival. On registration you will asked whether you would like overnight storage space allocated for your harp. All items in the storage area must be clearly labelled and named and insured for cover away from your home. Harp Fest NZ does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage to any personal items during the festival.
Can I make my spare harp available for use during the festival?
If you have an extra harp that could be made available to a harpist flying in Auckland, please contact us on [email protected].
Can I bring someone to assist with moving my harp?
You are welcome to bring someone to assist you moving your harp. If they plan to attend sessions during the day or concerts, a ticket will need to be purchased. As with parents and caregivers, they are welcome to wait in the dining hall, marketplace, sheltered cloisters/walkways or other parts of the venue.
Do I need a harp at Harp Fest 2026?
If you can bring your own harp, please do. Workshops will include a hands-on harp component. For attendees who do not have access to a harp, we have asked our presenters and tutors to ensure there is a component in the workshop for those without harps. Presentations, talks and concerts will not require you having a harp unless you are participating as a performer/teacher.
Can I hire a harp for the festival?
A limited number of harps will be available for hire for the weekend. Priority will be given to harpists who are travelling distances. Hire harps must remain within the venue and cannot be taken away from the venue. Hire harp requests can be made on registration.
Can I store my harp overnight at the festival venue?
Harp storage is available in a large common room for personal harps of attendees at the festival. On registration you will asked whether you would like overnight storage space allocated for your harp. All items in the storage area must be clearly labelled and named and insured for cover away from your home. Harp Fest NZ does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage to any personal items during the festival.
Can I make my spare harp available for use during the festival?
If you have an extra harp that could be made available to a harpist flying in Auckland, please contact us on [email protected].
Can I bring someone to assist with moving my harp?
You are welcome to bring someone to assist you moving your harp. If they plan to attend sessions during the day or concerts, a ticket will need to be purchased. As with parents and caregivers, they are welcome to wait in the dining hall, marketplace, sheltered cloisters/walkways or other parts of the venue.
|
TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION
I am coming from out of town. Where should I stay? There is a range of accommodation within a short distance of the venue. We anticipate being able to offer special pricing for a number of these over the coming months. Further details of accommodation and pricing will be included on the website. Can I travel to the venue by public transport? For anyone staying locally, the Auckland Transport website will assist with planning your journey. There are bus routes a short distance from the school and train stations less than 20 minutes’ walk away. |
|
PLEASE NOTE
As Harp Fest NZ happens over Easter weekend some services do not operate as usual.
On both Good Friday and Easter Sunday most shops and many services are not allowed to be open/operating.
We suggest you plan for food and dietary requirements to avoid the need to shop on either of these days.
DISCLAIMER
Harps Aotearoa Foundation may take photographs, video, and audio recordings during the event. By registering for Harp Fest NZ 2026, permission is given for your name and image to be used for current and future promotional and marketing materials. If you prefer not to be included, please notify Harps Aotearoa Foundation in writing prior to or during the event.
OTHER
Can I ask a question that is not answered here?
Please reach out to us using the contact form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
As Harp Fest NZ happens over Easter weekend some services do not operate as usual.
On both Good Friday and Easter Sunday most shops and many services are not allowed to be open/operating.
We suggest you plan for food and dietary requirements to avoid the need to shop on either of these days.
DISCLAIMER
Harps Aotearoa Foundation may take photographs, video, and audio recordings during the event. By registering for Harp Fest NZ 2026, permission is given for your name and image to be used for current and future promotional and marketing materials. If you prefer not to be included, please notify Harps Aotearoa Foundation in writing prior to or during the event.
OTHER
Can I ask a question that is not answered here?
Please reach out to us using the contact form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
|
Accommodation around the venue:
Despite our best efforts (and the fact we really wanted onsite accommodation) we haven't been able to secure onsite accommodation at an affordable price. Basically, it's cheaper to look elsewhere, and you won't be sharing a communal bathroom with 20 other people. The address of the venue is Dilworth Senior Campus, 2 Erin Street , Newmarket/Epsom (indicated by the red marker on the map). Both these suburbs, and Remuera are good options for nearby accommodation.
If you plan to stay further away from the venue, the Newmarket area is a really good hub for public transport with buses regularly going from either side of the school on Great South Road or Manukau Road, and the Remuera Train Station is around 400m from the back gate of the school.
|
|