New Zealand Secondary Students' Choir
The New Zealand Secondary Students’ Choir (NZSSC) is Aotearoa’s national choir for students aged 13 to 18. Comprising up to 60 members selected through nationwide auditions every two years, the choir gathers during school holidays for intensive rehearsals and concerts, typically culminating in an international tour.
About New Zealand Secondary Students' Choir
For many, the NZSSC is a life-changing experience that provides a clear pathway to professional music careers. Alumni frequently progress to the New Zealand Youth Choir and Voices New Zealand Chamber Choir, becoming influential figures in the global music community. By learning from premier conductors and vocal coaches, members realize their potential while representing New Zealand on the world stage.
Formally established in 1986, the NZSSC has undertaken 13 international tours across Asia, the Americas, and Africa. The choir has earned prestigious accolades at major competitions, including:
- The Choir of the World title at the World Youth & Children’s Choir Festival - Hong Kong. (2006)
- World Choir Games (Xiamen, China): Gold Award (Champion Mixed Voice Youth Choir) and Silver Award (Folk and Ethnic Music).
- Pacific Basin Choral Festival (Hawaii): Gold award and named 'Outstanding Choir of the Festival'.
- Llangollen Eisteddfod (2022): Named 'Children’s Choir of the World'.
- International Choral Kathaumixw (Canada): Won three first-place awards. During the 11th Kathaumixw, the choir received more awards than any other choir in any year of the festival’s history – a record that still stands.
The NZSSC continues to nurture the nation's finest young voices, fostering excellence through collaboration and international ambassadorship.
News & features
- News13 Jul 2026‘Music has no borders’: World Choir Festival opens in Hong Kong with message of peace and inclusion
The 2026 Hong Kong World Choir Festival opened on Sunday 12 July with a message about music’s power to foster friendship, understanding, inclusion and peace.
- Interview29 Jun 2026In conversation with Susan Densem: New Zealand Secondary Students’ Choir at the World Choir Festival in Hong Kong
As the New Zealand Secondary Students’ Choir marks its 40th anniversary, its appearance at the World Choir Festival in Hong Kong carries a particular resonance.