A tiered structure sees students aged 13 – 17 (Years 9 -11 at secondary school) progressing through the programme as Junior, Intermediate and Senior Associates.

Associates travel from throughout the country to the New Zealand School of Dance in Wellington for four weekends of tuition a year. The School accepts entry at Junior Associate level (Year 9 Classical and Year 10 Contemporary).

Since joining forces in 2025, the enhanced Associates Programme aims to provide pre-vocational dance students across Aotearoa/New Zealand with a unique opportunity to engage with both the NZSD and the RNZB, throughout the year.

The Royal New Zealand Ballet will provide Associates with a range of exciting benefits, such as:  

• RNZB Dancers Teaching Weekend: RNZB dancers will lead a dedicated weekend workshop exclusively for all associates.
• Complimentary Open Classes: Classical Associates will have the privilege of attending one complimentary open class per associate at their home centre. Please note that subsequent open classes will be subject to the regular fee.
• Complimentary Ticket to the Mixed Bill Season: Classical Associates will each receive one complimentary ticket to the Mixed Bill season, providing them with the chance to witness captivating ballet performances. Please note that this ticket is non-transferable and is valid for the associate only.
• Day Intensive at RNZB: Senior Classical Associates will have the unique opportunity to participate in a day intensive at the Royal New Zealand Ballet. This immersive experience will include observing classes and rehearsals, taking  a class in the RNZB studio with one of the Ballet Masters, engaging in Q&A sessions with dancers, and even enjoying a tour of the St. James Theatre and costume department.

The programme incurs a small administrative fee and students must cover their own travel and accommodation costs.

The RNZB recognizes the NZSD's training and the engagement through the Associates Programme as a vital pathway into the profession, particularly within the RNZB.

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Audition information

The Associates audition consists of two classes: classical ballet and contemporary dance. These are not syllabus based and both classes must be attended by all applicants. Selection to the Associates Programme is made solely on the basis of:

• potential
• aptitude
• performance quality
• commitment, musicality, creativity and literacy

How to Apply

Selection for the Associates programme is by audition only and places are strictly limited. Auditions are generally held in September at Te Whaea: National Dance and Drama Centre (Wellington).  Stay informed via our website and social media for audition dates.

Preference will be given to classical students entering Year 9 at the beginning of the following academic year, and contemporary students entering Year 10 at the beginning of the following year.

Current Associates do not need to re-audition annually, however they are assessed regularly and continue on the programme by invitation only.

For questions or further information about our Associate Programme please contact us.