What is the NZIF?
The New Zealand Improv Festival (NZIF) is Aotearoa’s premier celebration of improv.
Held annually in Te Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington), NZIF brings together world-class improvisers from across Aotearoa and around the globe for an unforgettable week of creativity, connection and performance.
Since its founding in 2008 by Merrilee McCoy and Derek Flores (under Wellington Improv Troupe), NZIF has grown into a cornerstone of both the national and international improv community.
At its heart, NZIF is about bold ideas, shared learning and the magic of making something out of nothing, together.
“If you want to laugh till your belly hurts, watch wizards weave worlds out of thin air, and be a part of something special, inimitable, then catch as many NZIF shows as you can.”
what to expect
Across the festival, you’ll find a dynamic mix of:
Unmissable shows - Original, high-energy performances from top local and international improvisers.
Hands-on workshops - Learn from the best, build core skills, explore new formats and push your creative limits.
Thought-provoking talks - Dig deeper with talks, panels, and discussions exploring the craft, theory, and future of improv.
Social events - Connect with the community in a welcoming, low-pressure environment between shows and sessions.
The festival also runs a Youth Programme - a five-day pre-festival intensive dedicated to training and inspiring the next generation of improv talent.
Whether you're here to perform, learn, or simply watch, NZIF is packed with opportunities to be inspired
“[NZIF] highlights the art form, it allows for community building, and it encourages us to challenge ourselves as individuals and as a collective to continually improve.”
Who it’s for
NZIF is open to improvisers of all levels—from seasoned performers to those just starting out.
If you’re completely new to improv, we recommend trying a few sessions with your local improv group before diving into the festival experience.
For more information about how the Festival works, check out our Frequently Asked Questions.
NZIF 2025 Scene painting
Image: A group of improvisers in white overalls stand on a stage covered in painted drawings.
NZIF 2017 NZ vs the World Photo by Ali Little
Image: Seven improvisors piled on top of each other as if stuck down a chute, laughing and shrieking.
NZIF 2024 Kōrero Paki
Image: Two improvisers connect in conversation.