Our Dance School started as a ‘dream that came to life’ way back in 2012 when Lenna Dickson founded the school which was then called ‘Dance Waimakariri’. Starting out with just a few keen dancers it quickly grew into a humming, happy and excelling school and for the last 14 years it has been a privilege bringing the joy of dance to the North Canterbury Community. It’s our pleasure to introduce ourselves:
Lenna Dickson – Founder and Manager
My dance journey started when I was five years old with the Russell School of Dance in Nelson. I studied Ballet, Jazz and Contemporary sitting exams in NZAMD (New Zealand Association of Modern Dance) and BAL (Ballet Australasia Limited). I taught Ballet and Jazz to students at the Russell School of Dance from 2002- 2004 during which I prepared them for the exams and choreographed for performances and competition dances. In 2003 Christchurch nominated me as a representative for the Young Performer of the Year Award where I went on to dance at National New Zealand level in modern dance. I also qualified to dance at the Australian Show Case. During my time overseas I participated in dance workshops and classes in England, Switzerland, Austria and Germany. I also worked within a performing arts team in Austria where I danced in famous musicals such as Les Miserable and Cats. Since my return from overseas my focus has been much more upon teaching than performing. I studied to become a Secondary School Teacher and taught dance at Motueka High School and also Kaiapoi High School from year 9-13. I was also fortunate to teach a dance and movement group as part of an IHC programme for people of mixed ability in Rangiora and in Christchurch I ran dance programs for various primary schools with a focus on growing young peoples self esteem through the medium of modern dance and hip hop.
In 2012 I was lucky enough to make a dream come true and I started my own Dance Academy, Dance Waimakariri, which is now called North Canterbury School of Dance. Starting out with just a few students the school quickly grew to a humming and happy school with dancers of all ages finding their passion for dance throughout North Canterbury.
Over the past few years I have stepped out of my ‘dance teaching’ shoes and into my ‘Mum’ shoes, staying home to raise three young children. While currently not teaching weekly classes, I love supporting our teachers and dancers from ‘side stage’ and my main roles are now ‘back stage’ in administration and management. My passion for dance remains strong and I have great joy in sharing this amazing form of art and creative expression with others. I am so proud of what North Canterbury School of Dance it has become.
Hikaru Takao- Teacher
Hi I’m Hikaru Takao! I started my dance journey in 2012 and I have been dancing for 15 years. My passion and love for dance continues to grow and has really pushed and shaped me to become a better version of myself. I have completed my NZAMD Ballet Examinations, NZAMD Jazz Major Examinations with Distinctions, and have received my Solo Performance Diploma for Jazz. I have been nominated for the Jazz Scholarship Awards in Wellington for Advanced 2 Jazz in 2021 and Solo Performance Diploma for Jazz in 2022. I had been competing in various competitions throughout New Zealand for 8 years which has given me the ambition and love for performing. I was in the senior team that danced in the finals for troupes at PACANZ in 2023. I completed 1 year of full-time at Dance Arts where I got to work with incredible tutors and choreographers. I’ve learned so much about dance and this has really pushed me to grow as an artist. This will be my 6th year teaching and I’m so excited to dance with you all again. l teach the styles of Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop and Ballet from all ages. I hope to inspire students and to guide them towards their fullest potential, encourage them to step beyond their comfort zones, develop confidence, and to love and enjoy every part of their dance experience. I can’t thank my NCSD family enough for all the love and support they have given me over the years. Super pumped for what 2026 brings!
Saki Takao- Teacher
My name is Saki Takao and have been dancing at North Canterbury School of Dance for 13 years. This school has taught me so much throughout the years, inspiring and encouraging me to become the best dancer I can be. I want to support other students to feel the same love and passion for dance as I do. I have competed at competitions for 8 years. I have completed my NZAMD Ballet examinations, NZAMD Jazz examinations, and received my Solo Performance Diploma for Jazz. I was nominated for the Jazz Scholarship Awards in Wellington for my Solo Performance Diploma. In 2023, I was nominated to compete in the NYPA soloist for Modern Dance and was selected to dance in the semifinals. I was also in the senior team that made it through to the finals for troupes. I will also be taking the 2025 Full Time Course at Dance Arts. This will be my 3rd year of teaching. The styles I will be teaching are Jazz, Lyrical, Ballet, Hip hop, Acro, Contemporary, and Parents dance. I am so excited to continue on this journey with you all!
Vienna Sutherland- Teacher
My name is Vienna Sutherland, and I have been a dedicated student at the North Canterbury School of Dance since 2016. Dance has been a profound passion of mine, igniting a love for movement and expression that continues to grow each day. Throughout my journey, I have had the opportunity to participate in various competitions and examinations, which have not only benefited my skills but also deepened my appreciation for the art form. Each experience has taught me the importance of discipline, creativity, and teamwork, and I am excited to continue my dance journey through teaching and inspiring others along the way.
North Canterbury School of Dance 