About Us
Our Story: Passion,
Precision & Performance
Founded on a love for Scottish piping and highland dance, Easton Pipes & Dance has grown into New Zealand’s leading supplier of premium bagpipes, dance gear, and authentic highland attire.
What started as a small initiative by Stuart and Shelley Easton—both decorated champions in their fields—has now become a trusted source for high-quality products tailored to the needs of performers at every level.
We know first-hand that the right instrument, the right gear, and the right fit can make all the difference. That’s why we personally select and recommend only the best brands and materials, ensuring that our customers receive products that are reliable, durable, and performance-ready.
From competition-grade bagpipes to custom-made Highland kilts, we provide everything needed to uphold tradition while enhancing performance.
Stuart Easton
Stuart Easton began his piping journey at the age of 13 under the guidance of his father, Murray. He later refined his craft under two of New Zealand’s finest tutors—Greg Wilson and Stewart McKenzie—and has since carved out a reputation as one of the most accomplished solo pipers in the world.
Over the past few decades, Stuart has won every major solo piping prize in New Zealand and Australia multiple times over. He also achieved significant success in the UK and France including the prestigious Highland Society of London Gold Medal at the Argyllshire Gathering in 2018. He was invited to compete at the prestigious Glenfiddich Piping Championship, earning a 5th in Piobaireachd on debut—an extraordinary feat amongst the world’s best.
Stuart has proudly represented New Zealand at the Festival Interceltique in Lorient, France ten times winning the Piobaireachd twice. A recipient of the William Boyle Memorial Scholarship, he earned his Senior Certificate from the Institute of Piping in Glasgow—testament to his dedication to the art.
For 25 years, Stuart played with the renowned Manawatu Scottish Grade 1 Pipe Band, helping the band achieve:
- 7 National Championship titles
- 5 Top-10 finishes at the World Pipe Band Championships
- 2 commercially released CDs
- Become a life member of the band in 2021.
Stuart is a senior adjudicator, part-time tutor, and remains an active competitor. His career highlights include:
Highland Society of London Gold Medal – Oban 2018
Runner-up Highland Society of London Gold Medal – Inverness 2019
3rd Prize Senior Piobaireachd – Oban 2019 & 2023
5th Prize Piobaireachd Glenfiddich Championship – 2018
Northern Meeting Silver Medal & Overall – Inverness 2017
Highland Piping Society of Canterbury Silver Chanter & Former Winners Clasp (5 times)
RU Brown Gold Medal & Former Winners Clasp – Adelaide (2 times)
Commun na Piobaireachd NZ Gold Medal & Former Winners Clasp
Overall New Zealand Solo Piping Champion (6 times)
NZ Invitational Colin Craig Claidhmor (4 times) & Celtic Inn Targe Piobaireachd (6 times)
Lindisfarne Dirk & Sgian Dubh Premier Double MSR – Hastings (3 times)
Premier Otago Gaelic Society Ramshorn Double MSR – Dunedin (3 times)
Overall RU Brown Champion – Adelaide (4 times)
Lewis Turrell Invitational – Hamilton (3 times)
Wellington Brown Cup – (12 times)
Whether teaching a young student, judging a championship, or performing at an international stage, Stuart brings unmatched expertise and passion for the craft of piping.
Shelley Easton
A Life Dedicated to the Art of Highland Dancing
Shelley Easton has been immersed in Highland Dancing since childhood, dedicating her life to mastering, teaching, and promoting this rich Scottish tradition. A 10-time Overall New Zealand Champion, she has won:
- 6 Senior Titles
- 4 Junior Titles
- Multiple North, South, and Centre Championships
At just 21, Shelley earned her Solo Seal in Highland and National Dancing—a prestigious achievement marking the highest level of solo dancing excellence. Her competitive career has taken her beyond New Zealand, with standout performances in Scotland in 2007 and 2009.
Teacher, Mentor & Adjudicator
Today, Shelley continues to train the next generation of Highland dancers at Danceworks Studios in Palmerston North, where she is a dedicated instructor. She regularly adjudicates competitions across New Zealand and conducts workshops and summer schools, helping dancers refine their skills and deepen their connection to the art form.
She is also a member of many local societies and committees and remains an active leader within the New Zealand Highland Dancing Community.
A Passion for Pipebands
Beyond dancing, Shelley was also a playing member of the Manawatu Scottish Pipe Band from 2007 to 2012, taking part in three trips to the World Pipe Band Championships—showcasing her deep connection to both music and dance.
With an unwavering passion for tradition and excellence, Shelley continues to shape the Highland Dancing landscape in New Zealand through performance, teaching, and advocacy.
More Than a Store—A Community
