ImprovFestivals.orgNew Zealand Improv Festival
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | October 2-11, 2026 |
| Edition | 17th |
| Location | Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington), New Zealand |
| Language | English |
| Organizer | New Zealand Improvisation Trust |
| Website | improvfest.nz |
| NZ Improv Fest | |
| @nzimprovfest |
Overview
The New Zealand Improv Festival (NZIF) is an annual improvisation festival held in Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington), primarily based at BATS Theatre. Founded in 2008 by Merrilee McCoy and Derek Flores through Wellington Improv Troupe, it has grown into a respected fixture of the national and international improv communities. The festival features shows, workshops, mixers, conference sessions, and social events, drawing performers from across Aotearoa, Australasia, and internationally.
NZIF is operated by the New Zealand Improvisation Trust, a registered charity (since 2023) that advocates for improvisation as an artistic discipline across New Zealand. The festival offers scholarship and financial assistance programs for participants and is supported by Wellington City Council, NZ Community Trust, and several other charitable trusts. A five-day Youth Programme for emerging talent precedes the main festival. The 16th edition in 2025 featured 22 shows and 34 workshops across nine days.