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MEDANZ

Middle Eastern Dance Association of New Zealand

Teachers List


The teachers on this list are part of the MEDANZ membership. MEDANZ does not offer any formal dancing or teaching qualification, nor can we endorse a teacher. However we have provided recognition of nationally recognised formal qualifications to assist you in the search for a teacher in your area.


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Key

(based on information provided by teachers themselves)

Locations

 
year joined MEDANZ Auckland
year started MED -
year started teaching MED
Corommandel Peninsula Cambridge New Plymouth
maintenance of expertise -
latest 3 qualifying workshops
Christchurch Palmerston North
formal teacher training
year completed
Tauranga
first aid certificate Napier Timaru
safe dance practice training
[formal]
Nelson
safe dance practice training
[informal]
  Wellington/Wairarapa



Auckland

Andrea Buchanan (Raven)

with Bellydance East (school) and Danse Macabre, Eastern Promise, Sahara Dreams (troupes)

Phone (mob): ( 021 ) 40 88 44 at all times
Email: bellydanceeast@gmail.com
WWW: www.bellydancereast.webs.com


Teaching philosophy: My goal is to make Belly dance accessible to all. To keep it fun and educational and always challenging.
Styles offered: Cabaret, Pop, Fusion, Tribal, Burlesque
Classes: Please check my website or email me for current classes


2004 2002/2006 2006 2008
24Oct2010

 

Angela Hughes (Angie)

with Arabian Rendezvous School of Bellydance, Troupe Arabian Rendezvous

Phone (eve): (09)235-5044 (mob): (021)296-1593
Email: ahughes@orcon.net.nz
P O Box 431 Waiuku, Auckland 2341
For more information see: www.arabianrendevous.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: Provide A fun and Friendly welcoming class environment for all sizes shapes and abilities for learning belly dance.
Styles offered: Tribal, Cabaret, Fusion, Props includes Veil Candle Sword and Cane.
Classes: Mondays -Pukekohe, Tuesdays/Wednesdays -Waiuku, Thursdaya Onewhero. Availble for private lessons and Workshops


2000 2000/2003 2006,2006, 2006
24Oct2010

 

Angela Mott (Shakeelah)

Phone: Mob (021)848 913
Email angela@medance.co.nz
For more information see: www.medance.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: Dancing should be fun, safe, and enjoyed by all ages and sizes.
Styles offered: Egyptian, American Cabaret, Folkloric, Props: Veil, Cane, Wings, Melaya, Sword, Zills
Classes: Wednesday and Friday nights in Takapuna, North Shore City. Private Classes by arrangement

1998 1993/2003 2004,2005, 2009
05/Feb/2011

 

Cindy O'Brien (Massarah)

with Shimmy with Massarah

Phone (mob): (021) 234 5266
Email: shimmywithmassarah@gmail.com
Ellerslie, Auckland
For more information see: shimmywithmassarah.com


Teaching philosophy: I believe that belly dance is for fun fitness and feeling good which is open to women of all age's shapes and sizes. Each student should be able to express herself through movement to the Arabian rhythms by feeling the dance from her heart they will develop their self confidence, a sense of well being and discover their inner beauty.
Styles offered: Modern and traditional Egyptian, Beladi, Cabaret, Folkloric, Improvisation
Classes: Private, Group, Workshops; Tuesday Morning and Evening, Wednesday Evening


2010 2009 1979, 2001
07Dec2010

 

Dallia

with Oasis for Dance

Phone (mob): (021) 354 243
Email: dallia@oasisfordance.com
St. Heliers, Auckland
For more information see: oasisfordance.com


Teaching philosophy: Teaching techniques of different styles of belly dance in safe environment. Have fun expressing your individuality, beauty and femininity.
Styles offered: Egyptian, Folkloric, Baladi, various props
Classes: morning/evening: St.Johns, Mt.Eden; Private lessons; Workshops


2001 1996/2000 2004, 2004, 2005 High school teacher & Keti
26/01/08

 

Diane James (Sekeeta)

with Habibi Dance Troupe, Shebah


Teaching philosophy: Education, fun and performance
Styles offered: Egyptian, American Tribal, Folk, Sword, Zils, Cane
Classes: Evening at - Yes; Weekend at - Yes; Private lessons; Workshops


1992 1976/1980 2002,2002, 2003 1991 1991 (Community Dance Teaching Course, Danceworks Auckland Dance Foundation)
01Feb2008

 

Fiona Harding (Fina)

with Healthly-Steps Ltd

Phone: 0800 235 592
For more information see: www.bellydancing.net.nz/ and www.gohealthysteps.co.nz/


Teaching philosophy: : As well as Belly Dance Classes by appointment Fiona is offering Movement and Exercise Classes for Health and wellbeing with the Lebed Method an International therapeutic programme for those recovering from any form of cancer or with form of chronic illness.
Classes: Individual and Group classes by appointment, Home Dance Studio, Bayswater, Auckland


2005 1975/1990 2004,2007 ACHPER (1990) 2010
11Apr2011

 

Glennis Jones (Zahiya)

with Sahara Middle Eastern Dance School, Sahara Spice (Performance Troupe)

Phone: (09)836-0154 (mob): (027)272 4627
Email: glenphil@ihug.co.nz
24 Nui Mana Place, Te Atatu South, Auckland


Teaching philosophy: To share the fun, joy and beauty of MED, to encourage self-expression, femininity, and a healthy body image, to promote MED to the public through performance.
Styles offered: American, Egyptian, Folkloric, Fusion, Tribal, Plus zills, veil, cane
Classes: Evening at - Community Education (Waitakere College, Rathgar Road, Henderson); Choreography/Performance Class (Green Bay Community Centre); Private lessons


1992 1987/1994 2002,2003,2003
23/05/05

 

Ishtar Bellydancer

Phone: (mob): (021) 648 338
Email: ishtar.bellydancer@gmail.com
PO Box 128199, Remuera, Auckland

For more information see: www.ishtarbellydancer.com


Teaching philosophy: Fun classes for all ages, celebrating your individuality through dance, learning to maximise your strengths, appreciating your uniqueness, developing style and boosting self-esteem. Encourage improvisation as well as choreography
Styles offered: Egyptian, Egyptian folkloric, American Cabaret, Western fusion
Classes: Evening at - Tuesday, Buddha Room, Pakuranga; Weekend at - Sunday, Buddha Room, Pakuranga; Private lessons; Workshops


2004 2002/2005 2004,2006,2007
04/02/08

 

Jan Haldane (Jannah)

with Windows of the East Ltd

Phone: (mob): (021) 0435053
Email: info@windowsoftheeast.co.nz
For more information see: http://www.windowsoftheeast.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: Have fun feel fabulous find yor beauty! Bellydance is suiteable for all ages and body types. Experiance the funky music, the gorgeous costumes, find a new sense of well being and explore your femanine power.
Styles offered: Egyptian, Fusion, Cabaret, Improvisations
Classes: Are held at Central North Shore Venues.

2010 2004, 2005, 2010 2002
05/Feb/2011

 

Kimberley (Kimberley)

Phone: (mob): (021) 606199
Email: teaching@bellydancing.co.nz
For more information see: http://www.bellydancing.co.nz/


Teaching philosophy: Kimberley is recognised for her highly professional and elegant teaching style. Her classes are based around building strong foundations in dance posture and presentation and only then layering specific moves and sequences. Within these areas she covers veil work, sword balancing, floor work, zills, musical interpretation, choreography building and performance techniques.
Styles offered: Her predominant styles that she teaches are Turkish Oryantal and Classical Egyptian
Classes: Private lessons; Workshops


1998 1994/1998 2004, 2005
15/10/05

 

Suzanne Robertson (Suezy)

with Cinch Dance Unlimited

Phone: (09)5272350 (mob): (021)115 8548
Email: cinch@xtra.co.nz
WWW: www.cinchdanceunlimited.com


12B Homestead Drive, St. Johns, Auckland 1072


Teaching philosophy: Fun! Self expression, acceptance, confidence, interpretation and more fun. Fabulous music with wonderful dance moves all packaged together with vibrant beautiful costuming. Sheer heaven.
Styles offered: Egyptian using veil, zills and cane, Tribal, Fusion and Gypsy
Classes: St Johns, Auckland


2004 2002/2007 2004
24/01/08

 

Tais

Phone (mob): (021)077 4720
Email: tais-bellydance@hotmail.com
WWW: www.tais-bellydance.com


Teaching philosophy:Bellydancing is a feminine form of art that encourages women to express themselves. It boosts self confidence, self esteem and improves overall fitness.
Styles offered: Egyptian, Folk, Fusion, props
Classes: Evening classes; Private lessons; Workshops


2008 2002/2004 2007,2007,2008 2005 (Institute of Fitness (Moscow, Russia))
17102008

 

Tanya Theron

with AISHA Belly Dance Studio

Email: tania_theron@hotmail.com
WWW: www.orientaldance.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: To create multilayered learning atmosphere where everybody can realise themselves depending on their motivation to belly dance and own fitness level. Fun, challenging and a lot of creativity from/for the teacher and students!
Styles offered: Egyptian, Folkloric, props and afro fusion. Belly Fitness (on request) Costume and props making
Classes: Evenings - group classes for adults and children. Private lessons, workshops Daytime lessons - on request, Orewa, North Harbour, North Shore


2009 2008
03/09/2009

 

Coromandel Peninsula

Suher

with Suher's Middle Eastern Dancers

Phone: (07) 864 7637 (mob): (027) 329 2288


Teaching philosophy: Convey precise technique of all movements while following the music 100% Relaxing into the music and experiencing the Middle Eastern Feeling for it. Enjoy each others company while working together in a supportive way.
Styles offered: Egyptian, Fusion, Folk, all kinds of props used
Classes: During school terms: Thursdays 5.30 pm - 6.30 pm beginners, 7 pm - 8.30 pm advanced. Suher is available for workshops.


1998 1982/1985 2002, 2003, 2006 1987 1990 informal
24Oct2010

 

Catherine Corcoran

Phone: (07) 867 1995 (mob): (021) 210 2438

Email: smile@catherinecorcoran.com
For more information see: www.catherinecorcoran.com


Teaching philosophy: To empower my class by teaching moves and steps that will enable them to dance, improvise (when they're ready) and most of all have fun. I promote good posture in the dance and find it is a way to reduce and prevent back and other musculoskeletal pain.
Styles offered: A combination of folk, Egyptian, Turkish, Middle Eastern, North African, Romany, Greek, Tribal, Fusion, baladi, classical and more.....
Classes: 9am on Mondays (except stats) in Whitianga town hall, Monk St.


2009 2010 2011
29Mar2011

 

Cambridge

Karen Walworth (Karen/Adilah)

Cambridge

Karen Walworth (Karen/Adilah)

with Cambridge school of bellydance Desert Gypsies

Phone (am): (07) 823 7232 (eve): (07) 823 7232 (mob): (0274) 489001
Email: nzbellydancer@gmail.com
For more information see: www.desertgypsysbellydance.webs.com


Teaching philosophy: To encourage all women regardless of shape/size or age to dance and enjoy dancing while developing an appreciation of middle eastern music as well as to develop there own style of Belly dance.
Styles offered: Cabaret, Choreography, Medieval fusion and medieval dances, dances using props: Sword Cane Veil Candle Isis wings. Zills and Basic drum available on request.
Classes: Weeknights evenings, pivates and workshops on request see website for further details.


2000 1998/ 2003 2003,2004,2006,2009
24Oct2010

 

Tauranga

Andria Goodliffe

with Belisha Dance Club

Phone: (day): (07)570 2445 (eve): (07) 570 2445 (mob): (021) 022 55898
Email: belisha@clear.net.nz
Belisha Dance Club, c/f L Hulena/Mico Plumbing, P O Box 4422, Mount Maunganui


Teaching philosophy: : Belisha encourages active participation in the art of Middle Eastern belly dancing. Facilitates learning opportunities and options for dancers ranging from complete novice to experienced performers. The enjoyment of the dance, extending physical skills safely and learning are what we do.
Styles offered: Belly dance in its many forms, folkloric, cabaret, earthy, tribal, fusion.
Classes: Workshops


2006 2001/2004 2007 2001
24112008

 

Linley Duncan (Linley)

with Arabian Spice Dance Group

Phone: ( 07 )552 4352 (mob): ( 027 )286 3452
270 Te Puna Road RD6 Tauranga


Teaching philosophy: Encouraging and empowering women of all ages shapes and sizes to have fun and enjoy dancing in a supportive friendly environment, We cater to women with varying fitness and levels of abilities to bring out the "inner dancer" whether for public performance or own personal enjoyment.
Styles offered: most styles including veil, cane, sword, zills, cabaret, tribal fusion and world fusion
Classes: Evenings at - Te Puna, Katikati College and Otumoetai College; Weekend: Te Puna


2000 1999/2007
24Oct2010

 

New Plymouth

Paisj Stonnell

with Hipnotix Dance Company

Phone (eve): (06) 754 4435 (mob): (027) 415 3 514 (eve): (06) 754 4435 (mob): (027) 415 3 514
Email: hipnotix@ihug.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: To share my Passion for tribal belly dance in a warm friendly fun and safe environment.
Styles offered: American Tribal style and tribal fusion, beginners through to advanced.
Classes: Evenings weekly


2007 2006/2007 (Les Mills) 2007
24Oct2010

 

Wellington/Wairarapa

Beverley Dowling (Shekina Moonjelly)

Email: havingfun@zippityzoo.co.nz
For more information see: http://www.moonjellybellydance.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: To encourage the emotional and technical development of each individual dancer through safe dance practice, knowledge and most of all good old fashioned fun and belly laughs.
Styles offered: Variety of specific styles taught - I have a generalist approach providing a taste of the variety of experiences middle eastern dance offers. A veritable buffet of dance styles.
Classes: Evenings at Wellington (125 Cuba Street, Tarrant Dance Studio); Private lessons; Workshops - available for weekend workshops, willing to travel


1994/2002 1989/1992 2004, 2004, 2005 1996 (RGON, BHSc (Nursing))
17Apr2010

 

Joy Evans

Phone (eve): (06)379 7566


Email: joybellydancer@gmail.com

Teaching philosophy: I wish to pass on to others as much knowledge about the wonderful dance form as I can.
Styles offered: Saiidi, including Raks Al Assaya (cane dance). Beginner level Arabic drumming, Arabic drum rhythms and how to identify them Zills, flags, poi socks and voi.
Classes: I am available to teach workshops and private lessons. I travel round the North Island to teach workshops, including Palmerston North Levin Wellington and Hutt Valley.


2000 1997/2003 2005, 2006, 2007 2005
24Oct2010

 

Melissa Bryant

Phone (day): (04)385 0218 (mob): (027)488 8817
Email: melissa_joy2000@hotmail.com


Teaching philosophy: Belly dance is a low-impact way for women to strengthen core stability and develop cardiovascular fitness, core strength and flexibility, pelvic floor muscles and whole-body endurance - all while feeling gorgeous, having a laugh and enjoying the music. Come along just for fun, or work towards future performance opportunities.
Styles Offered: Oriental
Classes: Beginners and Beyond, Shimmies, Strengthening, Balance, Veil, Candle, Special occasion


2004 2002/2005 2006,2008
29Dec2011

 

Pip Bennington (E-Lysaah)

Phone (mob): (021) 542 013

Email: hedonistacal@gmail.com


Classes: Week nights - Wellington; Private lessons; Workshops
(See Christchurch for Pip's full details)
5/3/07


 

Sylvia Edge-Perkins (Ziva)

Zilzal Tribal Bellydance

Phone: (021) 02781709
Email: zivadoestricks@gmail.com
For more information see: http://www.tribalbellydance.co.nz

Teaching philosophy: Fun, fitness, and fulfillment
Styles offered: American Tribal Style (ATS)
Classes: I teach at Tarrant Dance Studio, 125 Cuba Street, Wellington, and at Petone Baptist Church, 38 Buick Street, Petone.

2002 2002/2005 2008,2009,2010 2003,2010 2012
05/Feb/2011

 

Tamara Allerhand (Yasmin)

with Sirocco Middle Eastern Dancers

Phone: (06) 308-8343
Email: finalerh@actrix.gen.nz


Teaching philosophy: To provide students with sound technique and appreciation of the history of the dance. I aim to enhance their self confidence, improve their level of fitness within a safe environment and provide opportunities to perform for those who are interested. I also encourage development in associated areas such as costuming, choreography and music.
Styles offered: Egyptian, Folk, Fusion
Classes: Thursday 6.30-8.00pm Intermediate/Advanced private lessons and workshops by arrangement.


1994 1982/1983 1998,2003 1998 (Exercise Science)
24Oct2010

 

Nelson

Gretchen Howard (Gretchen)

with ZENDA Middle Eastern dance troupe

Phone: (day): (03)548 8707
Email: info@kites-rainbowflight.co.nz
19 North Rd Nelson


Teaching philosophy: I offer quality instruction in a fun, safe and supportive environment. My focus is to encourage each student to develop personal excellence, individual confidence and a positive body image. I also aim to inspire students to dance from a place of integrity and respect, bringing the dance out of the shadow and back into the light.
Styles offered: Egyptian, Folk, Fusion
Classes: Evening at - St. John's Church Hall Hardy St. Nelson; Private lessons; Workshops


1994 1980/1991 2002, 2003, 2003 2003
05May2006

 

Sabina Gilbert (Sabina)

with Troupe Sabina

Phone: (03)548 3739 Email: magic.happens@slingshot.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: My keywords are encouragement, enjoyment, energise and exercise; promoting of self confidence, friendship and laughter. Self awareness, technique and entertainment skills for those wishing to reach performance level.
Styles offered: Egyptian, Folklore, Fusion
Classes: Evenings - at Nelson, Victory Community Centre


2000 1989/1999 2003, 2004, 2006 1988
29/12/06

 

Christchurch

Amanda Macauley (A'mal)

with School of Contemporary Belly Dance, Red Queens

Mobile: 027 301 5897 Email: incitatus26@hotmail.com
WWW: www.amal.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: To teach and inspire belly dancers using the beautiful rhythms, culture and background of the Middle East, utilizing safe and effective dance technique and practices.
Styles offered: Oriental, Lebanese, Turkish Oryntal, Folk (Saiidi, Ghawazee, Khaleegy), Sword, Fusion
Classes: Level 1, 82 Lichfield St, Christchurch
Thurs 6.30-7.30pm Mixed Level (Revolving Topics)
Thurs 6.30-7.30pm L3 Oriental
Advanced classes semi regular basis.
Privates/workshops on request


2002 2005
24Oct2010

 

Amy Wilson

with School of Contemporary Belly Dance

Email: amy.shimmyqueen.wilson@gmail.com
WWW: www.belly.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: Dance should be fun, safe, engaging and confidence building. I aim to provide students with classes that entertain and educate. I also aim to increase self-confidence and body-awareness whilst enjoying dance.
Styles offered: ATS, School of Contemporary Belly Dance Tribal Style, Tribal Fusion
Classes: Private lessons; Workshops


2006 2003/2007 2006, 2007, 2008
07Aug2008

 

Brigid Kelly (Zumarrad)

Email: zumarrad@gmail.com
For more information see: www.zumarrad.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: To provide a fun, physical basic introduction to belly dance, particularly the Orientale style, in accordance with the School of Contemporary Dance philosophy
Styles offered: Introduction (Level one), Beginners oriental (level 2) Intermediate orientale (level 3)
Classes: Available for private tuition only.


2000 1998/2002 2004, 2006, 2007 2007
04/05/06

 

Farida

with Desert Veils Dancers

For more information see: www.bellydance.co.nz


Styles offered: Egyptian, Turkish, Lebanese, Khaleegy
Classes: Evening at - Chrystal Palace & Papanui High School; Weekend at - Chrystal Palace; Private lessons;


1992 1986/1990 2004, 2006, 2007 1980, 1984
06/03/07

 

Kashmir

with Belly Raqs with Kashmir

Phone (mob): (027)GET RAQS
Email: kashmir@raqs.co.nz
PO Box 18902o, New Brighton, Christchurch 8461
WWW: www.bellyraqs.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: Personal expression of the music through dance but grounded in an awareness of the cultural background and safe dance practice.
Styles offered: Egyptian raqs sharqi, beledi, and folk plus western belly dance
Classes: Evenings at - South Brighton, Christchurch; Weekend at - South Brighton, Christchurch; Private lessons; Workshops


1995 1991/1997 2008, 2008, 2008 1983, 2003 1979 2003 (Safe Dance Practices, QUT)
21Jul2008

 

Pip Bennington (E-Lysaah)

with School of Contemporary Belly Dance

Phone (mob): (021) 542 013
Email: hedonistacal@gmail.com
WWW: www.hedonistacal.com


Teaching philosophy: Warm, innovative, breathing for life through dance. Tribal dance is about people dancing and performing together, and I love to promote this strong, urbanized style. My teaching philosophy is about showing people that they can express their individuality with this strong, creative dance style.
Styles offered: Tribal
Classes: Saturdays at - School of Contemporary Belly Dance; Sundays – by invitation; Week nights - Wellington; Private lessons; Workshops


2005 2001/2005 2006, 2006, 2006
29Oct2008

 

Yurie

with El Yasmine Belly dance School

Phone: (03) 352-8209
Email: yuriematsui@xtra.co.nz

Teaching philosophy: To provide quality Middle Eastern Dance classes in A safe and positive learning environment so that each student can reach her/his full potential and enjoy learning this beautiful art form.
Styles offered: Raks Sharki (oriental) and Middle Eastern Folkloric (Saiidi Khaleegy Nubian, Ghawazee, Alexandrian, Hagala, Tunisian)
Classes: Thursday Morning (level 3 oriental folk) Monday Evening (Beginners) Saturday (beginners intro, Level 2 Oriental/ folk/level 3 oriental ) Private Lessons / Workshops.


2000 1998/2002 2004,2005,2006 2004
24Oct2010

 

Timaru

Kathryn Gilligan (Sufiye)

with The Beledi Eastern Dance Group, Timaru

Phone (day): (03)612 6138 (mob): (021)183 4476
Email: gillakatss@xnet.co.nz


Teaching philosophy: To allow women of all ages, shapes, sizes and fitness level, to learn and enjoy this form of dance whether it be to perform, as a fitness class or to be able to enjoy the company of other like minded women. Also to build self esteem in a safe environment
Classes: Daytime at - On request; Tuesday Evening at - Timaru; Weekend at - Willing to travel; Private lessons


2003 1996/1998 2000,2001,2003 2003
17/01/07

 

Dunedin