We are looking forward to celebrating the fantastic work that our members do, 10th – 15th April 2026.
The theme for Music Therapy Week this year is ‘Weaving Connections | Te Poutama Hononga’.
The logo is depicted by a Pikorua which represents connection and unity, reflecting Music Therapy programmes that integrate indigenous knowledge and support whanau through cultural identity and social connection.
Music Therapy Week Events, 2026
Little Musical Caravan Open Morning
If you have a child or student who is Neurodivergent, has additional learning needs or is in need of emotional support and you would like to find out more about how music therapy might support them, come and talk to the team at the Little Musical Caravan to find out more about music therapy and our approach.
Free! No booking required.
When: Friday 10 April 2026
Where: Mana Therapy Hub, 116 Mana Esplanade, Mana, Pororua (parking along Mana Esplanade, or at Mana Station)
Website link: https://www.littlemusicalcaravan.co.nz/
See the event poster here.
“That’s what it’s all about”, Music for Life
Interactive workshop to experience music therapy ideas and activities for educators, therapists and anyone interested in music therapy – no musical experience required
When: Sunday 12 April
Where: 79a Copeland Street, Epuni, Lower Hutt
Website link: musicforlife.co.nz
See the event poster here.
Grand-tastic Monday, Hastings
Grand-tastic Monday is a joyful celebration of family, whānau, aiga, ohana, parivaar, jiātíng, familia, clann designed for grandparents and grandies to come together at Toitoi and get creative.
When: Monday 13 April, 11:00am
Where: Toitoi: Hawkes Bay Arts and Events Centre
More information: https://www.toitoivenues.co.nz/whats-on/lift-off/grandtastic-monday/
Musicking Together, Wellington
Free event, open to everyone!
When: Monday 13 April, 6:00 – 7:00pm
Where: Evaro, level 1, 65 Cuba Street, Wellington
More information: https://www.musicwelltherapy.com/musicking-together
Raukatauri Music Therapy Centre: School holiday sessions
Southern Music Therapy: School Holiday Programme
SMT’s inclusive School Holiday Program gives those with additional learning needs an opportunity to come together, connect and build relationships in the community through collaborative creative interactions and music making in a supportive and respectful environment.
When: Tuesday 14 April
Where: Braintree Wellness Centre, 70 Langdons Road, Papanui
More information: http://www.smt.nz/newsandevents
Southern Music Therapy FAQ drop-in hour
Curious to know what music therapy is? Want to know what happens in a session? Keen to see our space & meet some of the team?
No bookings required – just drop in!
When: Tuesday 14 April, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Where: Braintree Wellness Cake, 70 Langdons Road, Papanui
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FBZZkDCxK/
Inclusive Voices Open Mic Night
A special event designed to showcase the diverse talents of adults with disabilities. This inclusive platform aims to break down barriers, promote diversity and amplify the voices of those who often go unheard.
When: Wednesday 15 April, 6:00 – 8:00pm
Where: Evaro, Level 1 James Smith Corner, 65 Cuba Street, Wellington
Email to register to perform: musicwelltherapy@gmail.com
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/share/179i17H35S/
Some media highlights from Music Therapy Week 2024 and 2025
Sāmoan music therapists June Potifara and Retts van Dam are using sound and song to support wellbeing and self-expression.
“It’s a form of expression that, at times, words alone can’t express. That’s what makes it a bit different from something like talk therapy.”
Celebrating Music Therapy Week
RNZ Concert’s David Morriss spoke with Renata Kuswanto, a Neurologic Music Therapist at Southern Music Therapy in Christchurch, about how she draws on her training as a classical pianist in her work.
Image: from Radio New Zealand website
Music Therapy in diverse communities in Aotearoa (audio)
RNZ interview with Luke Stothart
