About IMVA

Independent Music Venues Aotearoa (IMVA) has evolved from Save Our Venues into a national organisation representing grassroots music venues: the first of its kind in Aotearoa. An incorporated society, IMVA is led by a national membership of music venues, and advocates for both its members and the sustainability of the wider live music sector.

Founded on values of collectivism and collaboration, IMVA works to enable independent venues to continue operating, be economically viable and sustainable, and ensure there is growth for our members and stakeholders — all of which will lead to a stronger and resilient live music sector for Aotearoa’s artists and audiences.

IMVA welcomes applications from independently owned music venues who either have a track record of hosting original live music for paying audiences, or who make a commitment to do so. In the future, we will encourage others actively involved in the live music industry to join as associate members.

IMVA continues the work of Save Our Venues to develop and advocate for regulatory reform and policy settings that support the sustainable operation of music venues.

A trusted voice with central and local government, we push for regulatory reform, evidence-based policy changes and strategy development. This includes ongoing threats posed by noise/sound enforcement as well as work in the liquor licensing and planning areas.

IMVA’s governing body is: Lucy Macrae (Chair / Whammy Bar), Rahine O’Rielly (Secretary / Meow), Steve Newall (Treasurer / Save Our Venues), Abi Symes (The Stomach), Jonah Merchant (Neck of the Woods) and Richard Barnacle (Space Academy).

For media enquiries (and anything else) email info@imva.nz