Workshops

World War Two and the American Influence on Jazz in New Zealand

Alberton, Mt Albert

Auckland

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8 Sep 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm

Tuesday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

$55.00 per person

Presenter: Dr Aleisha Ward

Title: “The Yanks Are Coming!”: World War Two and the American Influence on Jazz in New Zealand

Abstract: Between 1942 and 1944, thousands of American military personnel arrived in New Zealand during World War Two, bringing with them new music, dance styles, and cultural influences that would leave a lasting mark on the country. This session explores how the American military presence transformed New Zealand’s jazz and entertainment scenes, influencing musicians, audiences, radio broadcasting, and popular culture. Through stories of interaction between troops, civilians, performers, and fans, we uncover the significant role this “friendly invasion” played in shaping New Zealand’s musical and cultural identity.

Date:

This History workshop will run on Tuesday 8th September from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm and include a tea / coffee break.

Venue:

We're delighted to be hosting this workshop at Alberton, one of Auckland's finest heritage homes. Built in 1863 and beautifully preserved by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Alberton offers a unique glimpse into Victorian life and provides the perfect backdrop for exploring history, art and culture.

About the expert

Dr Aleisha Ward

Dr Aleisha Ward is an award-winning writer, jazz historian, and lecturer in music history. She was the 2017 Douglas Lilburn Research Fellow and a recipient of the 2018 Ministry of Culture and Heritage New Zealand History Research Trust Award for her work on the Jazz Age in New Zealand. She is one of the first graduates of the Bachelor of Music (Jazz Performance) at the University of Auckland, holds a Masters of Arts degree in Jazz History and Research from Rutgers University, and a PhD in Music from the University of Auckland where she researched jazz in New Zealand 1920-1955.