The New Zealand School of Dance has announced that Director Garry Trinder MNZM will retire at the end of 2027, bringing to a close almost three decades of leadership at one of the region’s key professional training institutions.
Trinder’s retirement will coincide with the School’s 60th anniversary, giving the organisation a natural point of transition as it prepares to appoint its next Director.
During his tenure, Trinder has played a central role in shaping the School’s development and its place within the dance sector in New Zealand and internationally. Under his leadership, NZSD has strengthened its international reputation, broadened professional pathways for students, and built collaborations with choreographers and companies in New Zealand and abroad.
His influence is also visible through the School’s alumni, many of whom have gone on to work across major companies and independent dance environments. For a training organisation, that is often where leadership is most clearly measured: not only in institutional growth, but in the dancers who carry its standards, networks and artistic values into the profession.
Reflecting on the timing of his retirement, Trinder said it felt appropriate to step away as the School marks a major anniversary.
“It seems fitting to bow out at the School’s 60th anniversary,” he said. “It has been an honour and a privilege to carry the responsibilities of this pivotal position for almost 30 years, but it is time to pass the baton to another visionary. I am grateful that we are here, thriving and striding forward.”
Chair of the NZSD Board of Trustees, Mary Slater, acknowledged Trinder’s long contribution as an educator, mentor and sector leader.
“Over the course of his extensive career, Garry has touched the lives of countless people as a leader, educator and mentor,” Slater said. “All of us at the New Zealand School of Dance look forward to joining the broader dance community in celebrating his legacy in 2027.”
Founded in 1967, the New Zealand School of Dance has become an important training ground for dancers across classical ballet and contemporary dance. Its Wellington base has long positioned it as a bridge between local training and international careers, with students moving into professional companies and projects across New Zealand, Australia and further afield.
Trinder’s departure will mark one of the most significant leadership changes in the School’s recent history. The NZSD Board will begin its search for a new Director in 2026, with further announcements to follow.