New Zealand offers a one of a kind experience when it comes to its music scene. While its music industry is as diverse as the flora and fauna of the beautiful country, there is also something unifying and distinctive that makes music identifiably from NZ. Whether you are into South Auckland styles such as Scribe or the offbeat 60s’ surf pop of Drab Doo Riffs, New Zealand’s music scene has got you well covered. Here are some of the biggest music festivals you can attend, and don’t forget that you can arrive at each venue in style with our New Zealand cheap bus hire services!
Splore
Splore is a three-day entertainment extravaganza located on the shores of Tapapakanga Regional Park, in a beguiling bay. The annual arts and music festival is also one of New Zealand’s greatest dress up parties. You will be able to embrace the theme and join their tribe of like-minded party animals. At Splore, you are guaranteed to enjoy quality entertainment because the team works arduously to bring you the world’s best festival acts, including DJs, MCs, singers, and bands.
There is never a dull moment at Splore. If you want to experience something special, attending the renowned music festival during Saturday night is recommended. The theme is all about carnival, colour and costume. It is a deeply, wonderfully liberating experience for all participants.
You may be pleased to know that Splore is a family-friendly music event as well. Aside from all the hustle and bustle of the music event, you can also find a dedicated kids’ zone where a variety of programmes and activities are planned. Children under 12 are eligible for free entry to Splore while youths between the age of 13 and 17 are entitled to discounted tickets. Don’t forget to make use of the free family camping areas as well!
St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival
The festival began in 2004 and started out as a series of weekly shows at a modest Melbourne bar. Since its inception, it has flourished into one of the country’s most beloved festival institutions. St. Jerome’s has undergone a decade of expansion and has become an international signifier of essential music by fostering collaboration, championing community, encouraging self-expression, and more. In 2017, the thirteenth edition of the boutique music festival showcased renowned acts including Aurora, Mick Jenkins, NAO, Car Seat Headrest, and more. They also welcomed local favourites like Tash Sultana, A.B. Original, and D.D Dumbo. As a result, the event was able to pull some of the biggest crowds.
Some of the latest offerings of St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival include their newly launched podcast, introduction of the 1800LANEWAY hotline in every Australian city, and throwing a Hottest 100 Backyard Party in Brisbane.
WOMAD
WOMAD stands for World of Music, Arts and Dance. The popular music festival brings together a melting pot of artists and musical styles from across the globe and places them right into the heart of Taranaki. The main goal of the festival was to celebrate the world’s many forms of dance, arts, and music. That’s why they are known for their family friendly atmosphere and breathtaking performances.
WOMAD, itself is an organisation and works in an array of ways. Whether they are organizing performance events, music festivals, educational projects, etc., they aim to create awareness, inform, and create excitement for the potential and worth of having a multicultural society.
The first festival incepted in the United Kingdom, in 1982. The organization has since held more than 160 festivals and created events in over 20 countries and islands including New Zealand, Australia, Abu Dhabi, Japan, Singapore, the United States of America, France, England, Austria, South Africa, and more.
Rhythm and Alps
Have you been to the gorgeous Cardrona Valley, which is situated in the grand Southern Alps of New Zealand? This is home to one of the greatest music festivals in NZ. Its name is Rhythm and Alps and it is a three day music and camping festival. What’s more, Rhythm and Alps is approximately 15 minutes from Wanaka and 40 minutes from Queenstown.
With a wide variety of international and local acts performing across four stages, the premier festival of the South Island can cater to more than 10,000 partygoers. You can expect to experience the highest standard of sound and lighting production that’s available at New Zealand.
Apart from the complete visual and sonic experience you will enjoy, you should note that Rhythm and Alps is also a licensed festival that provides bars that serve cocktails, wines, and ice cold beers. Hence, BYO alcohol is not allowed on site.
Soundsplash by Raglan
Soundsplash is a three-day music festival situated at Wainui Reserve. This is the perfect summer festival of expression, music, and freedom. Hence, feel free to connect yourself to the buzz of the crowds as they enjoy the festival favourites and new grooves. Alternatively, you can also choose to unwind by finding relaxation within the festival’s myriad chill-zones – sun, sand, and surf!
Don’t be surprised to find off-the-grid ideas and cutting-edge style woven throughout the festival. You will be able to experience conscious music, films, and amazing moments to stimulate and invigorate at this multi-genre event.
When Soundsplash is ready to make a splash once again, be sure to try out their ‘Raglan flavour’ with a beachside location, family-friendly atmosphere, and zero waste philosophy. Come on down and mingle with people from beachy parents and teens to tots with earmuffs!
Electric Avenue Music Festival
Electric Avenue is Christchurch’s annual downtown music festival. It usually features an enticing line-up of international heavy hitters such as The Cuban Brothers, The Presets, Sneaky Sound System, The Freestylers, and the Thievery Corporation. Electric Avenue is currently situated in Christchurch’s Hagley Park. You can be sure that the venue is sizable. It has the capacity to cater to a 7000-strong crowd! What’s more, the place is lush and scattered with established trees, providing ample shade. Youths under 16 must be accompanied by a guardian or parent. Kids under the age of 13 enjoy free admission!
Whether you are travelling as a family or with your friends, bus hire in New Zealand can provide a comfortable ride to any of the above music festivals.