The Hill Family Foundation for Arts and Music exists to encourage the appreciation of fine music and to proudly showcase the talents and works of New Zealand’s artists. The Foundation recognises and rewards excellence and it advances the education of young New Zealanders. The Hill Family Foundation for Arts and Music is committed to the future of the arts in New Zealand and is the umbrella organisation of five initiatives that are presented over three-year cycles in pursuit of enabling, encouraging, supporting, presenting and celebrating New Zealand art. 

Michael Hill International Violin Competition
29 May – 6 June 2026, Queenstown and Auckland

The Michael Hill International Violin Competition stands for excellence, opportunity integrity and transformation; it is the launch-pad for violin virtuosos – the foundation stone of brilliant musical careers. With a prize package valued at over NZ$100,000 the ‘Michael Hill’ shapes the artistry of 16 of the world’s finest young violinists. The 2023 Competition attracted 160 applicants and over 1.3m online audiences. 29 May – 6 June 2026, Queenstown and Auckland

The Winners Tour
24 Oct -19 Nov 2024 NZ and Australia nationwide

The Winners Tour, presented the following year, is where the 1st prize winner builds their artistic muscle and delighting and inspiring audiences across the country.

National String Competition
14-16 December 2024, Auckland

In the service of New Zealand’s talented high-performance young musicians, the National String Competition is delivered alongside the Lewis Eady National Piano Competition to showcase the country’s next generation of classical music.

Whakatipu Music Festival
4-21 April 2025, Queenstown

The Whakatipu Music Festival showcases extraordinary music from international guests, Aotearoa’s leading musicians, emerging artists, and local talent workshopping and performing outstanding classical, jazz, singer-songwriting, Broadway hits and more. Brought to life by a local workforce, the festival supports and stimulates the arts, cultural and events scene n the Queenstown region and is a treasure for the community and the whole of Aotearoa.

The Instrument Bank 

The Instrument Bank is an initiative that matches string instruments with young Kiwi musicians who are in need of instruments that will springboard them to the next level of their music education, yet often lack access and the resource to make the necessary financial investment. The initiative runs year-round and nationwide.