2025 FESTIVAL BOOKERs LIST
CubaDupa
CubaDupa is Wellington’s most vibrant and immersive outdoor arts and music festival, transforming the city’s iconic Cuba Street precinct into a bustling celebration of creativity. With a focus on innovation, spectacle, and cultural diversity, CubaDupa champions emerging and established artists across a wild and wonderful spectrum of genres.
Location: Wellington
Start Date: 28 March 2026
Website: https://www.cubadupa.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Art and Experimental Music, Baroque, Classical, and Opera, Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Hardcore and Metal, Hip Hop and R&B, Latin and Caribbean Music, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae, Traditional and Old-time Music, Vocal and Instrumental Music, Waiata Māori and Rua Reo
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re on the lookout for fun, innovative, and engaging artists with a distinctive live show and a clear artistic direction. CubaDupa is a platform for bold ideas, high-energy performances, and unique sounds, especially from emerging acts looking to take their next big step.
Music in Parks 2026
Music in Parks is a summer staple across Tāmaki Makaurau, bringing free live music to local parks for whānau and communities to enjoy. With a wide range of genres and a laid-back, inclusive vibe, the series offers opportunities for emerging and established artists to perform in iconic outdoor settings throughout Auckland.
Location: Auckland
Start Date: 9 January 2026
Website: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/music-in-parks/music-events/
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Art and Experimental Music, Baroque, Classical, and Opera, Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Hip Hop and R&B, Latin and Caribbean Music, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae, Traditional and Old-time Music, Vocal and Instrumental Music, Waiata Māori and Rua Reo
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re open to a wide variety of genres and styles that connect with diverse Auckland audiences in an outdoor setting. Our artist fees typically range from $500 to $2800 depending on experience and profile, as we’re a ratepayer-funded series rather than a ticketed event. If you’ve got a solid live act and something that works in the sun with a community vibe—we want to hear from you.
Newtown Festival
Newtown Festival is one of Aotearoa’s biggest and most beloved free street festivals, transforming the vibrant suburb of Newtown in Wellington into a celebration of music, culture, food, and community. With dozens of stages and a massive crowd, the festival champions original music and bold, energetic performances that reflect the spirit of the city.
Location: Newtown, Wellington
Website: https://www.newtownfestival.org.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Art and Experimental Music, Baroque, Classical, and Opera, Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Hardcore and Metal, Hip Hop and R&B, Latin and Caribbean Music, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae, Traditional and Old-time Music, Vocal and Instrumental Music, Waiata Māori and Rua Reo
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re especially keen on high-energy original music, particularly from artists based in or around Wellington. If your live show is fun, vibrant, and gets people moving—we want to hear from you. No sad indie introspection, just bring the vibe!
Rhythm and Alps
Set in the stunning Cardrona Valley near Wānaka, Rhythm and Alps is the South Island’s biggest New Year’s music festival—serving up three days of epic sounds, alpine sunsets, and unforgettable vibes. Known for its DJ-heavy lineups, the festival blends high-energy electronic and hip hop with the occasional wild card thrown into the mix.
Location: Wānaka
Start Date: 30 December 2025
Website: https://www.rhythmandalps.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Hip Hop and R&B, Rock and Related
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re primarily DJ-focused but always on the lookout for acts that bring something unique to the table—whether it’s a tight electronic set, genre-bending live energy, or that rare rogue vibe that flips the script. Surprise us, but make sure it hits hard.
Splore
Set against the stunning backdrop of Tāpapakanga Regional Park, Splore is one of Aotearoa’s most vibrant and inclusive festivals, known for its eclectic music, creativity, and community vibes. The festival embraces a kaleidoscope of genres, cultural expressions, and bold performances that reflect the diversity of Aotearoa’s music scene.
Location: Tāpapakanga Regional Park, Ōrere Point
Start Date: 20 February 2026
Website: https://www.splore.net
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Art and Experimental Music, Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Hardcore and Metal, Hip Hop and R&B, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae, Traditional and Old-time Music, Vocal and Instrumental Music, Waiata Māori and Rua Reo
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re always looking for artists who bring something fresh, fearless, and full of heart. Whether it’s Polynesian metal, cabaret, or a genre-defying fusion — if your performance can captivate and uplift, we want to hear from you.
Jim Beam Homegrown
Jim Beam Homegrown is Aotearoa’s biggest celebration of Kiwi music, bringing together thousands of fans and a stacked lineup of the country’s top artists across genres. With free-flow stages and a welcoming atmosphere grounded in respect and aroha, it’s a uniquely immersive experience that blends music, culture, and the spirit of coming together.
Location: TBC
Start Date: 14 March 2026
Styles Considered:Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Dance and Electronic Music, Hardcore and Metal, Hip Hop and R&B, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae, Waiata Māori and Rua Reo
Festival Bookers Notes:
I’m interested in acts with a strong local following and something unique to bring to the table — whether that’s a cultural fusion, like Shepperds Reign’s metal and Polynesian vibe, or just damn good songs with a tight live set. We value artists on the rise who’ve shown they can hold their own, whether through touring, radio play, or solid streaming numbers.
Dunedin Craft Beer & Food Festival
Held at Forsyth Barr Stadium, the Dunedin Craft Beer & Food Festival pairs the best of Aotearoa’s craft brewers and gourmet food vendors with a stacked lineup of live music. With a diverse and energetic crowd, it’s a celebration of good times, great tunes, and local flavour.
Location: Dunedin
Start Date: 7 November 2025
Website: https://www.dunedinbeerfest.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Folk and World Music, Hip Hop and R&B, Pop and Popular Music, Roots and Reggae
Otago Orientation
Otago Orientation kicks off the university year with a bang, bringing together students from across the motu for a week of connection, celebration, and high-energy performances. Music plays a central role in the experience, with a focus on artists that resonate with young audiences and set the tone for an epic start to the year.
Location: Dunedin
Start Date: 16 February 2026
Website: https://www.otagoori.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Dance and Electronic Music, Hip Hop and R&B, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related
Festival Bookers Notes:
I’m looking for artists who can connect strongly with either the 18–22 student crowd or the 35–55 demo we see at the beer festival. A tight live show, a clear audience fit, and the ability to create a fun, memorable vibe will really stand out.
Shipwrecked Music and Arts Festival
Shipwrecked is a boutique music and arts festival held in the serene setting of Te Arai, just north of Auckland. Blending cutting-edge electronic music with immersive art installations, it offers a unique escape into a creative wonderland of sound, sculpture, and soul. Expect genre-defying sets, lakeside vibes, and a deep focus on artistic expression.
Location: Te Arai, Auckland
Start Date: 6 February 2026
Website: https://shipwrecked.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Art and Experimental Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Hip Hop and R&B, Latin and Caribbean Music, Roots and Reggae, Vocal and Instrumental Music
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re drawn to artists who push genres and bring something fresh and immersive to the table—music that’s dubby, deep, percussive, or globally inspired. If your sound can enhance the journey across one of our uniquely curated stages and you thrive in a live 360° environment, you’ll feel right at home.
Northern Bass
Northern Bass is Aotearoa’s ultimate summer festival for bass lovers, bringing the very best in drum & bass, hip hop, grime, and electronic music to the fields of Kaiwaka. Held over three days, the festival is known for its stacked lineups, heavy drops, and good vibes as thousands see out the year with massive energy and sound.
Location: Kaiwaka
Start Date: 29 December 2025
Website: https://www.northernbass.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Dance and Electronic Music, Hip Hop and R&B
Festival Bookers Notes:
I’m on the lookout for acts with a solid live show, a fresh sound, and a decent amount of gig experience. If your music fits into the Northern Bass world—whether it's bass-heavy, boundary-pushing, or tight hip hop with live energy—I’m keen to hear it.
Rhythm and Vines
Held among the vines in Gisborne, Rhythm and Vines is Aotearoa’s legendary New Year’s festival, known for world-class production, epic energy, and the first sunrise of the year. It’s a three-day party that brings together a wide range of sounds for one unforgettable celebration.
Location: Gisborne
Start Date: 28 December 2025
Website: https://www.rhythmandvines.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Dance and Electronic Music, Hip Hop and R&B, Pop and Popular Music
Festival Bookers Notes:
We don’t lock into any specific genre—if your music brings the party, we’re listening. Whether it’s high-energy electronic, crowd-moving pop, or a killer live band with presence, we’re after acts that can elevate the Rhythm and Vines experience. A solid live show and momentum in your career will go a long way.
TSB Festival of Lights
Held over 37 magical summer nights in the heart of Pukekura Park, New Plymouth, the TSB Festival of Lights is a whānau-friendly celebration of music, light, and community. With two stages and a dynamic lineup of entertainment—including live music, roaming performers, and pop-up events—it draws thousands of locals and visitors to enjoy enchanting evenings under the stars.
Location: Pukekura Park, New Plymouth (Ngāmotu)
Start Date: 20 December 2025
Website: https://www.festivaloflights.nz/
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Art and Experimental Music, Baroque, Classical, and Opera, Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Hardcore and Metal, Hip Hop and R&B, Latin and Caribbean Music, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae, Traditional and Old-time Music, Vocal and Instrumental Music, Waiata Māori and Rua Reo
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re open to all styles and demographics—what matters is a great vibe and an engaging presence. We’re especially interested in artists and performers who can connect with diverse audiences in an outdoor, whānau-focused setting. The more creative and versatile your act, the better!
Electric Avenue
Electric Avenue is Christchurch’s premier summer music festival, lighting up Hagley Park with a high-energy lineup of Aotearoa and international acts across a broad range of genres. It's a full-scale outdoor party that blends beats, basslines, and good vibes.
Location: Christchurch
Website: https://electricavenuefestival.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Dance and Electronic Music, Hip Hop and R&B, Pop and Popular Music, Roots and Reggae
Nostalgia
Held in the historic Ferrymead Heritage Park, Nostalgia blends vintage charm with forward-thinking music and sustainability. Expect an eclectic mix of genres, from alternative and experimental to global rhythms, all within a unique throwback setting.
Location: Ferrymead, Christchurch
Website: https://nostalgiafestival.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Art and Experimental Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music
Great Kiwi Beer Fest
A celebration of craft beer culture paired with great music, this Christchurch favourite draws crowds who come for the brews and stay for the tunes. Acts with broad appeal and an upbeat live show are right at home here.
Location: Christchurch
Website:https://greatkiwibeerfestival.co.nz/christchurch/
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Hip Hop and R&B, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae
South Island Wine & Food Festival
This relaxed summer celebration is all about fine wine, gourmet food, and smooth sounds. Set in the heart of Christchurch, it caters to a crowd looking to unwind to quality live music while sipping something crisp.
Location: Christchurch
Website: https://winefestival.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Pop and Popular Music, Roots and Reggae
Festival Bookers Notes:
I’m always looking for quality acts that know their audience and can bring the right energy to the right crowd—whether it’s a rowdy outdoor festival or a relaxed wine and food setting. A tight live show, clear brand identity, and a good sense of where you sit in the landscape will go a long way.
Meatstock Hamilton
Meatstock is the ultimate festival for lovers of low and slow BBQ, loud riffs, and big energy. Blending barbecue culture with a strong rock and roots music lineup, Meatstock Hamilton serves up a high-energy experience for fans of powerful live sets and hearty flavours.
Location: Hamilton
Start Date: 20 February 2026
Website: https://meatstock.com.au/hamilton/
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae
Festival Bookers Notes:
I’m keen to hear from NZ acts—especially those with some touring history in or around Hamilton—and to see what's coming up in your release schedule. A compelling live show with grit, character, and energy that suits a rock and BBQ crowd will stand out. This is my first MMF session, and I’m excited to discover something fresh.
Soundsplash
Held in the coastal paradise of Raglan, Soundsplash is a multi-generational, multi-genre celebration of music, culture, and consciousness. The festival offers a vibrant, all-ages experience and provides a powerful platform for emerging and established artists to connect with new audiences in a truly unique setting.
Location: Raglan
Start Date: 16 January 2026
Website: https://www.soundsplash.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Art and Experimental Music, Baroque, Classical, and Opera, Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Hardcore and Metal, Hip Hop and R&B, Latin and Caribbean Music, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae, Traditional and Old-time Music, Vocal and Instrumental Music, Waiata Māori and Rua Reo
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re looking for artists who are intentional about their music journey—those who come with a clear plan across recorded releases, live performance, and a strong digital presence. Soundsplash is a chance to reach a wide demographic, so being ready to represent your kaupapa and connect authentically with a diverse crowd will leave a lasting impression.
WOMAD NZ
WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) NZ is a vibrant three-day festival held in the beautiful Bowl of Brooklands and Brooklands Park in New Plymouth. Known for its all-inclusive, colourful, and genre-diverse atmosphere, WOMAD celebrates the best of global and local artistry, bringing together musicians, performers, and audiences from all walks of life in a joyous celebration of creativity, connection, and culture.
Location: New Plymouth, Ngāmotu, Taranaki
Start Date: 14 March 2026
Website: https://www.womad.co.nz
Styles Considered:
Alternative, Indie, and Punk Rock, Art and Experimental Music, Baroque, Classical, and Opera, Blues and Jazz, Country, Bluegrass, and Western Music, Dance and Electronic Music, Folk and World Music, Hardcore and Metal, Hip Hop and R&B, Latin and Caribbean Music, Pop and Popular Music, Rock and Related, Roots and Reggae, Traditional and Old-time Music, Vocal and Instrumental Music, Waiata Māori and Rua Reo
Festival Bookers Notes:
We’re always looking for distinctive and interesting artists—whether you’re emerging or well-known with a new project on the go. If your work celebrates cultural depth, creative excellence, and connection, we’re keen to kōrero. WOMAD is about expanding horizons, so bring your boldest, most authentic self to the table.