RHYTHM AND VINES WELCOME IN THE NEW YEAR

After an electric four days in Tairāwhiti, Gisborne, 22,000 Kiwis welcomed in the new year at New Zealand's iconic New Year's music festival, Rhythm and Vines. 

Not a dry eye was in sight as festival-goers watched the world famous Countdown Video bring them into 2026, with a nostalgic look back on some of the key moments. 

With over 100 acts delivering magical sets in the vines from December 28 until the early hours of January 1, the East Coast township welcomed in the 23rd year of the festival this year.

Day one, Camper's Night, kicked off with the official Waiohika Warmup - featuring two stages in full flight, the Rhythm Stage and Cellar Stage - with a strong offering of the best up-and-comers in kiwi music. Some highlights included ELLA MONNERY, INMOTION, MYLEN and MIKEYY. 

On day two, thousands of festival-goers were treated to standout performances from KID CUDI, mosh favourites TURNSTILE, future popstar INJI through to the future in drum and bass PIRAPUS and DJ to the stars A-TRAK. 

Day three saw all four stages stacked as punters soaked up tunes from MARIBOU STATE, L.A.B, BL3SS, LEE MVTTHEWS, and the history-making SUPERGRANS DJ Set. 

Day four of R&V provided magical sets from KANINE, NOTION, Kiwi classics HOMEBREW and CORRELLA, as well as R&V Veteran and King of Drum and Bass - WILKINSON, keeping the party going well into the early hours. 

Following a SOLD OUT festival in 2025, Rhythm and Vines are thrilled to announce their short but hotly anticipated R&V2026 Advance Sale to launch on January 14, 2026!

This exclusive advance sale will offer:

- Limited release of camping passes - secure your preferred campsite early
- 3-day festival passes at the lowest prices possible, starting from 
- Single day passes - perfect for those wanting to join us for specific days
- First release pricing - the best value tickets of the year

R&V LEGENDS - New Loyalty Ticketing Scheme
Introducing R&V LEGENDS, the brand new loyalty ticketing scheme designed to reward our most dedicated festival-goers. Return customers will enjoy exclusive benefits, priority access, and special perks as a thank you for your continued support of Rhythm and Vines. More details about R&V LEGENDS and how to register will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Head to rhythmandvines.co.nz/tickets for details.

About Rhythm and Vines
Rhythm and Vines is New Zealand's iconic New Year's music festival, held annually at Waiohika Estate in Gisborne. As the first city in the world to see the sunrise, R&V offers a world-class music festival experience, leading the way in festival safety, sustainability, and accessibility.

Held each year at the stunning Waiohika Estate, on the East Coast of New Zealand, in the beautiful township of Tairāwhiti | Gisborne, Rhythm and Vines offers festival-goers the chance to be the first in the world to welcome the first sunrise at one of the world's premier music festivals. The award winning music festival opens up to campers from December 28, with the festival officially kicking off on December 29, through to the first sunrise on January 1. 

The festival successfully raised $40,000 for the Gisborne Mayoral Relief Fund and will now focus it’s fundraising efforts to SugerGrans Tairāwhiti. In the years prior to the Gisborne floods, Rhythm and Vines successfully raised over $62,500 for Lifeline.

FOXY AND HILLIER DELIVER BIG ON AND OFF THE COURSE AT MĀNUKA PHUEL CHASING THE FOX

Mānuka Phuel Chasing the Fox delivered a thrilling night of sport, entertainment, and generosity on Friday 12 December at Royal Auckland and Grange Golf Club, with New Zealand’s top golfers and a stacked field of challengers coming together to raise life-changing support for charities across New Zealand.

Ryan Fox and Daniel Hillier proved too strong for their competitors on the course, but the real winners were the charities. Event partner Mānuka Phuel and Matt Pringle of Mānuka Doctor donated a total of $300,000, including $15,000 to each of the other charities represented by competing teams, and a transformative $150,000 to Starship Foundation, ensuring the evening had a lasting impact off the green.

Big Buddy charity received a $30,000 donation, after the event’s $15,000 prize for the winning team was awarded to Fox, who then matched the amount himself to double the donation.

“I love that this event is about more than just golf,” says Fox. “Big Buddy does incredible work, and seeing the wider impact for all of the charities through Matt and Mānuka Phuel’s incredible $300,000 donation is something I’m really proud to be a part of.”

Adding to the charitable impact on the night, Kiwibank’s ‘Birdies for Bucks’ challenge brought extra excitement to hole five. For every birdie made, Kiwibank donated to charity, and when birdies proved elusive, players were challenged to dig into their own pockets, delivering plenty of hype and good-natured humour. The initiative raised more than $90,000 for charity, further amplifying the event’s impact beyond the leaderboard.

Blending high-performance golf with live music, culture and a festival atmosphere, the final party hole once again delivered unforgettable scenes. The event was capped off by a live DJ set from international star CYRIL who jumped straight up on stage after playing golf with Sir John Keys and Max Keys. Local favourites Tim Phin, Dick Johnson, Dan Aux, Karn Hall and Grant Marshall also performed DJ sets, continuing the party atmosphere into the night.

Kiwis tuned in for nationwide coverage on TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+. Australian fans caught the action on Fox Sports Australia - available on Kayo Sports and Foxtel, and global fans tuned in to DANZ.com.

With elite athletes, media personalities and sporting legends all taking part, Chasing the Fox once again proved that competition, community and generosity can go hand in hand, delivering unforgettable moments for fans and life-changing support for charities across New Zealand.

BRITOMART'S TAKUTAI SQUARE GOES FULL FANZONE FOR THE ASB CLASSIC

Tennis fans in Auckland don’t need to miss a match in the ASB Classic, with Britomart’s Takutai Square becoming a fanzone that will screen every match of the tournament for free.

The ASB Classic team is working with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and Britomart Group to ensure as many Aucklanders and visitors as possible get to experience the thrill of the matches.

“The magic of the fanzone in Takutai Square is that it gives so many more people the chance to catch the action in the ASB Classic,” says Tracy Magan, ASB Classic Event Director. “It’s our way of sharing the energy of the event with the city and giving everyone the chance to enjoy the tennis in a fun, free way.”

A big outdoor screen by Monstavision with a SKY feed is being set up in Takutai Square so anyone can watch the tennis matches beaming live from Manuka Doctor Arena, from morning until late in the evening.

“Takutai Square is already one of the city’s most inviting public spaces, so we’re delighted to be able to amplify the summer action by offering everyone the opportunity to relax in a bean bag on the lawn in the sun to watch the tennis,” says Britomart Group’s Jeremy Hansen. “It’s very generous of the team at the ASB Classic to share their world-class tournament with the city in this way.”

This year’s ASB Classic is shaping up to be one of the best tournaments yet, featuring WTA stars Elina Svitolina, Emma Navarro and wildcards Venus Williams, Sloane Stephens and Katie Boulter. The men’s tournament includes defending ATP champion Gael Monfils, Stan Wawrinka, Ben Shelton, Casper Ruud and Jakub Mensik.

Play in the ASB Classic commences on Monday 5 January and concludes with the men’s final on Saturday 17 January. Tickets to the matches at Manuka Doctor Arena are available at this link. Every match will be screened live in Takutai Square, with open access and no ticketing.

HOME BREW TO PLAY ICONIC COROGLEN TAVERN IN JANUARY

Today, one of Aotearoa’s most beloved hip-hop groups Home Brew have announced on Sunday 4 January 2026 they will take to the stage at the iconic Coroglen Tavern, for one night only, after performing at Rhythm and Vines. 

Tickets for Home Brew will be available to purchase by the General Public on Wednesday 19 November at 12pm local time.  

Tickets and further information at livenation.co.nz. 

Home Brew are one of Aotearoa’s most beloved hip-hop groups, rising to equal parts greatness and infamy through their extensive run of EPs through the early 2010s and culminating in their now-classic #1 self-titled debut. The band re-entered the charts with their brand-new album Run It Back in 2023, securing them a raft of new fans. 

Their aggressively DIY ethos has endeared them to many in the New Zealand Hip-Hop music scene, and they have cemented their place in history as one of the country's most authentic, uncompromising acts. 

Don’t miss Home Brew at Coroglen this summer. 
 

SHAPESHIFTER, KAYLEE BELL, AND NICE 'N' URLICH JOIN THE MĀNUKA PHUEL SYNTHONY FESTIVAL 2026 LINE-UP

Duco Touring has today unveiled the next set of artists who will take the stage at Mānuka Phuel SYNTHONY Festival, at the Auckland Domain on Saturday 21 March 2026. Live electronic band Shapeshifter, country-pop star Kaylee Bell, DJ’s Nice 'n' Urlich, and rock-duo Made You Look are amongst the second release of acts, joining Faithless (Full Live Band), Peking Duk, SYNTHONY No. 7, Hot Dub Time Machine, The Black Seeds, and The Exponents - promising a festival experience packed with world-class electronic and live music.
 
Joining the lineup on the Pepsi DJ Stage is Beccie B, Flamingo Pier (DJ Set), Pixie Lane x Kazi Flip, Scary B Mean, Take Em To Church, and Tim Phin.
 
Shapeshifter, the pioneering live drum & bass band from Christchurch, join the Mānuka Phuel SYNTHONY Festival 2026 lineup, bringing their stadium-sized, genre-blending sound that fuses drum & bass, jazz, funk, rock, and electronica. With record-breaking New Zealand tours, sold-out European shows, and festival appearances from Glastonbury to Rhythm & Vines, the five-piece line-up - P.Digsss, Sam Trevethick, Nick Robinson, Dan McGruer, and Darren Mathiassen, delivers fully live, high-energy performances that push the boundaries of electronic soul and festival spectacle.
 
Kaylee Bell, hailing from Waimate, New Zealand, has achieved international success with awards including the 2013 Toyota Star Maker in Australia and the 2023 Global Country Artist Award. Known for her chart-topping singles across Australia and New Zealand, Kaylee has toured with icons such as Keith Urban and Ed Sheeran, bringing her signature country-pop sound to audiences around the globe, and now to NZ’s Auckland Domain for Mānuka Phuel SYNTHONY Festival.
 
Iconic soulful house music duo, Nice 'n' Urlich are returning to the domain in 2026. The duo made up of Peter Urlich and Bevan Keys performed at SYNTHONY in the Domain in 2024, and are back for more. From beginning as a Saturday-morning radio show in the mid-90s and now one of the country’s most beloved DJ acts, Nice 'n' Urlich remain synonymous with feel-good house and timeless party vibes.
 
Made You Look, also joins the line-up. The electrifying two-piece band is comprised of drummer-producer Shelton Woolright and vocalist-producer Alex Thompson. From unconventional beginnings in a boxing gym to festival performances, the duo brings infectious energy, genre-blending production, and undeniable stage presence to the main stage.
 
“Our ongoing partnership with SYNTHONY reflects Mānuka Phuel’s deep connection to music, performance and culture - it's a celebration of creativity, energy and the next generation of New Zealand sound. The 2026 lineup is the perfect expression of what Phuel stands for - bold and high-energy. Phuel exists to power creators and competitors alike - the phuel behind every beat, every moment, and SYNTHONY is the ultimate stage to share that" says Alex McDonald, Co-creator of Mānuka Phuel.
 
The Pepsi DJ Stage will feature Beccie B, Beccie is known for her high-energy DJ sets, with support credits for artists including Mall Grab, Peggy Gou, and Flume, and a string of sold-out club shows across the motu.
 
NZ festival favourites, Flamingo Pier (DJ Set) are making their debut SYNTHONY Festival appearance, on the Pepsi DJ Stage. The trio, Luke Walker, Dom Jones and Brad Craig will be bringing their signature mix of disco, classic house with forays into Latin funk, balearic and psychedelia.
 
Also set to return to the Pepsi DJ Stage are Pixie Lane x Kazi Flip, an Aotearoa-based DJ and percussion duo, transforming dance floors into high-energy communal experiences, blending house and electronic music with live percussion.
 
Drag Queen, Showgurl, MC and DJ Scary B. Mean will bring her blend of showgirl glamour and DJ mastery to the Pepsi DJ Stage. Scary B. Mean opened and MC’d SYNTHONY Pride at Spark Arena in 2024, and is back for more SYNTHONY fun.
 
Brand new collaboration Take Em To Church is joining the Pepsi DJ stage lineup. Made up of vocalist and producer Tali and DJ/Producer MissB, they’ll bring classic house hooks with driving grooves, live vocals and keys.
 
DJ, tastemaker, REMIX magazine creative director and well-known personality in the NZ music industry, Tim Phin, rounds out the DJ talent. A defining figure in Aotearoa’s dance scene, he’s shared the stage with global heavyweights like Diplo, Calvin Harris, and Skrillex, and continues to shape the sound of house music at major events across the country.

STELLAR STARS ELINA SVITOLINA AND EMMA NAVARRO HEAD BACK TO ASB CLASSIC

Two of the world’s top ranked female tennis stars have confirmed their return to Auckland for the ASB Classic. 

World #14 Elina Svitolina from Ukraine and #15 Emma Navarro from USA are the highest ranked players to contest the 2026 ASB Classic starting on 5 January. 

The recent approach by both outstanding internationals keen to return to Auckland, tempers the advice this week from Naomi Osaka, who has decided to withdraw, citing a change of schedule.  

“We are absolutely thrilled that both Elina and Emma indicated that they want to compete in Auckland,” said ASB Classic Tournament Director, Nicolas Lamperin. 

“I was pleasantly surprised when both spoke to me about playing, and their appearance will greatly strengthen the top of the order.  At the same time, we are disappointed with Naomi Osaka’s decision but hope to welcome her back in the near-future.” 

Svitolina, 32, last played in Auckland in 2024,  when she finished runner-up after a block-buster three-set final with Coco Gauff. 

The Ukraine player has 18 Tour victories to her credit, highlighted by a remarkable 2018 season when she claimed three titles and the WTA Finals, finishing the year ranked No 4. 

Svitolina made a successful return to the game in mid-2023 following the birth of daughter Skai with husband Gael Monfils, who has already confirmed his appearance in Auckland to begin his final year on the Tour. 

This year Svitolina won her 18th Tour title in Rouen, having reached the semifinals in Madrid and the quarterfinals at Roland Garros, Paris, Indian Wells and the Australian Open. 

Navarro was the most improved female player on the Tour last year, beginning with the semifinals in Auckland, which was the first flicker of a remarkable year that saw the Olympian rise 30 spots to No.8 at year’s end.  

The 24-year-old American enjoyed a win in Hobart, along with the semifinals in nine tournaments including the US Open, Monterrey, Toronto, Bad Homburg, and San Diego. She also made the quarterfinals at Wimbledon and Indian Wells to complete a meteoric 2024 season. 

In doing so the University of Virginia graduate became the first NCAA Women’s Singles Champion to reach the US Open semifinals in a breakthrough year, where she broke into the top-10 for the first time. 

There’s no secret to Navarro’s rise on the world scene. 

“The key to my rise has been a lot of hard work – consistency, dedication and always putting hours on-court and off-court – working really hard,” said Navarro. 

“I have been most proud of my abilities to, so far, exceed my expectations in tennis – and also never giving up when things get hard. Keep working hard and know that even in tough times, things are going to work out.” 

The American had no reservations of returning to Auckland. 

“Auckland is awesome. I love it there. The fans are super-supportive and show a lot of love for us players which makes it enjoyable. Auckland is a really cool city. It’s beautiful, has good food, so there’s lots to like about Auckland.”  

Both players have enjoyed Olympic experience, with Navarro representing USA at Paris 2024, where Svitolina earned the honour of flag-bearer for Ukraine in her third Olympic Games. She won the bronze medal at Tokyo Olympics in 2021, having first competed at Rio in 2016 . 

“Emma is another high quality player who has supported our tournament in the past, and we are very grateful that she will return again,” said Lamperin. 

“Like several young players previously, Emma has worked exceedingly hard to rise near the top of the world rankings. She has an excellent all-round game and is noted for her exceptional work ethic. 

“We always take delight in the progress of players who have supported us at the ASB Classic and then risen to the top in women’s tennis as Emma achieved in 2024.” 

The 2026 ASB Classic takes place at the Manuka Doctor Arena in Auckland from January 5 to 17, bringing together world-class players, entertainment, and the unique summer atmosphere that has made it one of New Zealand’s premier sporting events.  

This summer, the ASB Classic welcomes a bold new look, bringing more colour, energy and style to every corner of the tournament. Fans can look forward to a buzzing atmosphere, refreshed menus, a wider range of food and beverage options, and lively partner activations, capturing the very best of summer in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland.

DEFTONES RETURN TO NEW ZEALAND IN MAY 2026

Live Nation has announced multi-platinum GRAMMY® Award-winning Sacramento band Deftones will bring their immersive, genre-defying live performance to Aotearoa for an explosive headline arena show for the first time in nearly 10 years, with special guests Interpol and Ecca Vandal. Deftones have built one of alternative rock music’s most devoted followings, blending raw power with cinematic intensity. 

The tour will come to Auckland’s Spark Arena on Wednesday, 13 May.

General public tickets go on sale at 2pm on Friday 21 November.

ABOUT DEFTONES
Deftones’ culture is revered as one of the most fervent that exists—a GRAMMY® Award-winning multi-platinum sonic outlier whose originality and culture prove peerless. Formed by hometown friends out of Northern California in 1988, the Sacramento band have delivered a succession of seminal releases, sold over 10 million records globally, gathered 10 billion-plus streams, and inspired generations. Their catalog encompasses 2000’s RIAA certified 2X-Platinum White Pony—which earned the group’s first GRAMMY®—as well as the RIAA Platinum-certified Diamond Eyes [2010], Koi No Yokan [2012], and Ohms [2020]. The latter marked their fourth Top 5 debut on the Billboard 200. Their world also notably includes the annual Dia De Los Deftones, an immersive full-day festival experience of music and culture curated and headlined by the band at San Diego’s Petco Park for six iterations so far. In 2025, they released their 10th full-length LP, private music [Warner Records]. It signals yet another artistic peak and once more affirms Deftones are forever.

Deftones are Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Abe Cunningham, and Frank Delgado.

CONNECT WITH DEFTONES
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

HORI SHAW & TE WEHI JOIN FORCES AT COROGLEN TAVERN ON NEW YEAR’S DAY

Today, chart-toppers Hori Shaw and Te Wehi join forces for a massive co-headline show at the iconic Coroglen Tavern on New Years Day, Thursday 1 January 2026. Celebrate the New Year with the sound of Aotearoa, reggae, good vibes, and the perfect way to kick off summer.

Tickets for Hori Shaw and Te Wehi will be available to purchase by the General Public on Monday November 17 at 12pm local time. 

Tickets and further information at livenation.co.nz

From Ōpōtiki on New Zealand’s East Coast, Hori Shaw has quickly become one of Aotearoa’s most exciting roots-reggae artists. After a life-changing accident left him relearning how to walk, music became his voice, leading to a breakout in 2024 with multiple songs hitting No. 1 on the Aotearoa Top 20.

Since then, platinum singles like Back In My arms (2 x platinum) and Country Roads, plus collaborations such as Ready To Ride with Te Wehi, have expanded his reach across New Zealand and Australia. His live shows, from sold-out headline dates to major festival appearances have become known for their raw energy and heartfelt connection with audiences.

Winner of the 2024 People’s Choice Award and 2025 Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Hori Shaw blends authenticity, East Coast grit, and soulful storytelling that resonates with a fast-growing global audience.

A rural family man born and raised in Edgecumbe, in the Bay of Plenty, Te Wehi built his career from his bedroom while running a fencing business and learning how to produce music. He discovered his passion for music through simple acoustic covers, drawing inspiration from artists like Kora, Chris Stapleton, L.A.B, SiR, and The Teskey Brothers.

Rooted in real-life stories, cultural pride, and deep whakapapa, his songs resonate with emotional honesty and authenticity. With no original intention of chasing fame, Te Wehicarved out his own sound and, in the process, connected with a genuine fan base that quickly grew across the country.

He has always taken things as they come, taking pride in learning every part of the journey, a true reflection of his humble nature. Te Wehi’s self-produced sound has helped him dominate the charts and connect with thousands across Aotearoa and Australia. His down-to-earth approach saw him claim four spots on the Aotearoa music charts through most of 2024.

Now, with a platinum record and two gold certifications under his belt, Te Wehi is ready to take his self-built career to a global audience while staying true to his roots.

Don’t miss Hori Shaw and Te Wehi at Coroglen on New Year’s Day 2026.
 

ANNOUNCING CHARLOTTE RYAN AND VICTORIA MEAKIN AS MODERATORS FOR AN EVENING WITH PRISCILLA PRESLEY, LIFE AFTER ELVIS

Actress, businesswoman, and philanthropist Priscilla Presley, is bringing An Evening with Priscilla Presley, Life After Elvis to Ōtautahi Christchurch and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland next week, where she will be joined by moderators in each city. Music journalist Charlotte Ryan will join Priscilla in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland and journalist and broadcaster Victoria Meakin will join in her Ōtautahi Christchurch. 

An Evening with Priscilla Presley, Life After Elvis follows the release of Priscilla’s long-awaited memoir Softly, As I Leave You, a deeply personal story of what Priscilla lost and what she found when she walked away from Elvis Presley, the man she loved. 

On Wednesday November 19, An Evening with Priscilla Presley, Life After Elvis will be visiting the Isaac Theatre Royal in Ōtautahi Christchurch before heading to the Bruce Mason Centre on Thursday November 20 in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. 

Tickets and further information at livenation.co.nz. 

Priscilla Presley’s impact on popular culture extends beyond her association with Elvis. She has established herself as a prominent actress, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Her efforts to preserve Elvis’s legacy and her own achievements in various fields have solidified her place in history.  

Priscilla Presley became an instant audience favorite portraying Jenna Wade on Dallas, the most successful evening "soap opera" style television drama of its time. During her five years on the series, she generated mass audience appeal, becoming one of the show's most popular leading ladies. Priscilla then displayed her comedic talents in the box office smash The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!  reprising her role in The Naked Gun 2½  and The Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult.  

Beyond acting, Priscilla has been a shrewd businesswoman. In 1979, Priscilla became co-executor of the Presley  Estate and has since brought the Presley Estate from a burgeoning entity into a phenomenally successful organisation consisting of the famous Graceland Mansion, a worldwide licensing program, merchandising, music publishing, and television and video projects. In 2005, EPE (Elvis Presley Enterprises) partnered with Bob Sillerman and CKX Entertainment to build and extend the Graceland brand worldwide. Priscilla sat on the CKX Board as a director. With that relationship dissolving in 2013, the company now partners with private company ABG (Authentic Brand Group) to help with the expansion of Elvis’ popularity globally. She has played a crucial role in helping preserve Elvis’s legacy and turning Graceland into one of the most visited homes in America.  

Priscilla continues to be a steward for the Elvis Presley legacy. Serving as an executive producer, she was closely involved in the creation and development of two No. 1 Elvis Presley albums (If I Can Dream & The Wonder of You) and a sold-out UK & European live concert arena tour. In keeping with Priscilla’s passion for revitalising Elvis’s hometown, she actively oversaw the design elements for The Guest House at Graceland, a new hotel which opened in Memphis in Fall 2016. The property marked the largest hotel project in Memphis in nearly 100 years, and it’s helped infuse additional economic prosperity in the city as well as offer a new cultural experience for its visitors.   

Priscilla has recently been involved in two notable film projects related to her life with Elvis Presley. She served as an executive producer for the award-winning film Elvis(2022), directed by Baz Luhrmann. The film Priscilla (2023), directed by Sofia Coppola, was an adaptation of Priscilla’s memoir Elvis and Me, which details her life with Elvis. She also was an Executive Producer on the Sony/Netflix animated seriesAgent King, fulfilling the dream of Elvis always wanting to be a federal secret agent.  

Born in New York, her father's career as an Air Force officer enabled the family to travel extensively. She attended high school in Wiesbaden, West Germany, where she met her future husband, Elvis Presley. Although Priscilla and Elvis divorced in 1973, they remained very close until the time of his death.  

For 25 years,  Priscilla has continued to her work as an Ambassador to the Dream Foundation, the only charity that grants final wishes to terminally ill adults.  

Priscilla continues to be a beloved figure, admired for her resilience, business acumen, and dedication to maintaining the legacy of the King of Rock and Roll.  

SIR DAVE DOBBYN ANNOUNCES SECOND HAMILTON SHOW FOLLOWING SUCCESSFUL SELECTED SONGS TOUR

Due to overwhelming demand, Aotearoa’s treasured musical voice, Sir Dave Dobbyn, has announced a second performance at Waikato Regional Theatre on Sunday January 25, following the sell-out of the first Hamilton show.

After an extensive nationwide tour in October and November, which included multiple sold-out performances in Pōneke, Wellington; Ahuriri, Napier; Papaioea, Palmerston North; Ōtepoti, Dunedin and Ōtautahi, Christchurch, the tour will continue into 2026.

Tickets for Sir Dave Dobbyn’s Selected Songs second Hamilton date will be available to purchase by the General Public on Thursday November 13 at 11am local time.

With over 45 years as a recording artist, Sir Dave Dobbyn has shaped the sound of Kiwi music, penning the soundtrack to generations of New Zealand lives. From iconic anthems to an extraordinary catalogue of deeper cuts, Dobbyn’s set promises an unforgettable journey through one of the nation’s most storied songwriting legacies.

Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2022, Dobbyn declared it “business as usual” – and continues to inspire with his unmistakable voice and enduring presence on stage. Recognised with a Knighthood in 2021 for his services to music, Dobbyn remains one of New Zealand’s most revered cultural figures.

If the popularity of Sir Dave Dobbyn’s Selected Songs tour this year is anything to go by, audiences will want to grab tickets as soon as possible before they sell out.

HIGHLY SUSPECT RETURN, TADPOLE REUNITE FOR LIVE AT THE DOMAIN WITH GOOD CHARLOTTE & YELLOWCARD

One of New Zealand’s favourite US Rock bands HIGHLY SUSPECT and one of our most influential NZ rock bands TADPOLE will be joining already announced headliners in multi-platinum pop-punk rock royalty, GOOD CHARLOTTE, and beloved American pop-punk, alt-rock royalty YELLOWCARD on FEBRUARY 27, 2026 at Auckland’s Domain.

General Admission Earlybirds and First Release ticket allocations have exhausted. Second Release tickets are starting from $159.99+bf, VIP starting from $249.99+bfand VVIP options including Food & Beverage and exclusive bar and platinum barrier access starting from $649.99+bf. Limited Group Ticket Offers are available for purchases over 4, saving $10 off the ticket price. Afterpay is available via Moshtix.

HIGHLY SUSPECT push rock music forward by trusting their instincts and raising a middle finger to everything else. The multi-Grammy Award-nominated and gold-certified band don't just talk about burning the rules and breaking the mold; they actually do so.

The band's chemically imbalanced mix of gritty guitars, haunting piano, off-kilter synths, hip-hop production, cinematic vision, and beautifully possessed vocals transformed them into a phenomenon beloved by a diehard global fanbase known as "MCID" (My Crew Is Dope). After grinding it out as an underground curiosity, they scraped a path to mainstream infamy with their 2015 full-length debut, "Mister Asylum". It earned a Grammy Award nomination in the category of "Best Rock Album" as the single "Lydia" received a nomination for "Best Rock Song" was certified gold by the RIAA.

The 2016 follow-up "The Boy Who Died Wolf" roared to life with the gold-selling "My Name Is Human", which catapulted to #1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and garnered the band's third career Grammy nomination for "Best Rock Song." 2019's "MCID" affirmed them as the rare outfit who could collaborate with Young Thug and GOJIRA on the same album. Loudwire hailed the latter among the "50 Best Rock Albums Of 2019."

The band and Aotearoa hold a special bond. Highly Suspect’s last visit to Aotearoa was in 2024 around Wellington, Christchurch Auckland for their ‘As Above, So Below’ tour, where presale records were broken, ticket demands were extremely high and venues were upgraded. The band dedicated their 2024 song “The Blue-Eyed Devil” as “New Zealand’s Song”, frequently chart in NZ rock‐radio countdown The Rock 2000, and most recently they supported NZ up-and-coming Wānaka band Powder Chutes after noticing them in the crowd for their Christchurch gig, by offering them an opening spot and performance opportunity with them at their Auckland and Wellington shows.

With hundreds of millions of streams and sold out shows on multiple continents, Highly Suspect charged ahead of the pack again on 2022's "The Midnight Demon Club" and 2024’s "As Above, So Below" with no compromises and no apologies as they challenged rock to be dangerous and maybe even life-changing again.

Tadpole stands as one of New Zealand's most influential rock bands, whose explosive sound and charismatic presence catapulted them to national acclaim in the early 2000s. Formed in Auckland in 1994, the band's journey has been marked by platinum records, chart-topping singles, and unforgettable live performances that cemented their place in Kiwi music history. After disbanding in 2006, Tadpole made headlines with their reformation in March 2024. The band returned to the stage for select performances, delighting long-time fans and introducing their distinctive sound to new audiences. November 2024 marked a new era for Tadpole with the introduction of powerhouse vocalist Lauren Marshall, bringing fresh energy while staying true to the band's signature sound. Marshall joined original members Chris Yong (guitar) and Dean Lawton (drums), with Romilly Smith on bass and DJ Kritikl on turntables to forge an exciting new chapter in the band's storied history.

For both devoted followers and new listeners, Tadpole's return represents more than nostalgia—it's the triumphant rebirth of a vital force in New Zealand rock, proving that after nearly two decades, they remain fully switched on and poised to reclaim their position at the forefront of Aotearoa's music scene.

Live at the Domain is a premium, outdoor summer concert series in the heart of Auckland, showcasing unforgettable concerts at the iconic Auckland Domain. Set against the stunning backdrop of Auckland's most beloved green space, this event promises an electric atmosphere for music lovers to get amongst the perfect summer celebration. So rally the group chat, see you in the pit!
 

DITA VON TEESE UNVEILS HER MOST OPULENT SHOW YET: ‘NOCTURNELLE’

DAINTY is thrilled to announce that the ever-reigning queen of burlesque, Dita Von Teese, is set to return to New Zealand’s grand stages in August 2026, captivating audiences with her most enchanting show to date: Nocturnelle. 

Dita Von Teese will be visiting Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Tickets for these exclusive dates go on sale on Monday, 10 November, 10am local time from tegdainty.com.

With Nocturnelle, Dita unveils a bewitching new vision—an exquisite blend of old-Hollywood allure, theatrical magic, and the high-art “Stripscapes” Dita is known for. Inspired by the magicians of the 19th century, this production conjures a world of wonder where sensuality meets magic. 

The Nocturnelle Tour follows Dita’s record-breaking Glamonatrix Tour which remains the biggest touring burlesque show of all time, spanning multiple continents over a five year period. Renowned for producing the most lavish touring burlesque shows in history, Von Teese raises the bar yet again with a production that is opulent, and richly imaginative. Often imitated but never duplicated, Dita remains in a class of her own. Dita’s shows have most recently been attended by Harry Styles, Jean Paul Gaultier, Olivia Wilde, Tim Burton, Pamela Anderson, Jon Hamm, Christina Hendricks, Josh Groban, Prince Albert II of Monaco, and the great Golden Age star, Leslie Caron.
 

Commenting on the Tour, Dita said: “Nocturnelle is my most glambitious show yet. It’s where sophisticated striptease meets the spellbinding art of illusion. Learning from master magicians and diving into the secrets of vintage magic, I set out to create something uniquely enchanting… it’s the art of the Teese, plus a little trickery, and a whole lot of glitz.”

Dita Von Teese is internationally recognised as the Queen of Burlesque, having set a history-making benchmark for this great American art form, with unrivaled artistry and flair as performer, creative director, choreographer and producer. Her sensational spectaculars, along with her current residency at The Venetian, present a gender- and body-diverse cast of the crème de la crème of neo-burlesque performers, hailing from all over the world—and always celebrating the spirit of joie de vivre so dear to Dita Von Teese.
 

Taylor Swift: “Dita Von Teese is an absolute legend, unbelievable… she’s inspired so many people who’ve performed.” 

Dua Lipa: “Unquestionably the modern queen of burlesque.” 

Now, she brings her signature magic back to her adoring fans in New Zealand. Be sure to secure your tickets to witness the Queen in action once again.

TEEKS ANNOUNCED FOR OPENING NIGHT AT THE WAIKATO REGIONAL THEATRE

Celebrated homegrown artist TEEKS will headline the public opening night of the new Waikato Regional Theatre. For one night only on Friday January 23, he’ll present his debut Kirikiriroa performance including new music and stunning visuals.

TEEKS finds purpose and power in the healing balm of music. Born in Hokianga, Te Karehana Gardiner-Toi, in his quiet, cerebral demeanour has a unique way of bringing a packed audience to absolute silence. With his latest single Red Light out now and a new album nearing completion, and his distinctive take on modern soul, a performance byTEEKS is a spiritual experience, let alone the songbook that’s come right from the heart. 

Tickets go on sale at 12pm on Thursday 6 November.  

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz

The show is a featured highlight in the opening week of the state-of-the-art, world-class Waikato Regional Theatre set to open its doors to the public in January 2026. 
 
TEEKS made his entrance with the 2017 debut EP ‘The Grapefruit Skies’. The now Platinum-certified EP was met with critical acclaim in New Zealand, setting the young artist up for a global career. Later that year he took home his first Aotearoa Music Award and attracted nominations for the prestigious APRA AMCOS Silver Scrolls Award and the Taite Music prize. In 2021, TEEKS released his Platinum-certified album ‘Something To Feel’ which debuted at #1 on the NZ Chart. The album features Platinum single ‘Remember Me’, and Gold-sellers ‘First Time’ and ‘Without You’.
 
In recognition of the album, TEEKS would take home three Aotearoa Music Awards along with Best NZ Act at the MTV EMAs and Rolling Stone’s Best New Act. This moment was followed by a phenomenal sold-out nationwide album tour, which solidified TEEKS as one of the nation’s greats.
 
The tour added to a long list of sold-out shows from Aotearoa to the UK at iconic venues – including the Sydney Opera House, Auckland’s Civic Theatre and Spark Arena as well as drawing a 9,000 strong crowd to Melbourne’s Fed Square.
 
TEEKS reached new heights in 2022 as his global fanbase formed around him, following viral TikTok success in South Africa where 'First Time' is accredited Gold, and on to achieve a #1 streaming market in the United States. Now with over 1.4 Billion short-form video views, 150 Million worldwide streams, 50 Million video views, two Platinum projects, four Platinum singles and five Gold singles to his name, TEEKS has grown from strength to strength, cloaked head to toe in musical alchemy. Dedicating himself to sonically captivating music that is as sincere as it is profound – 4 years following his monumental debut album, TEEKS is set to return with a new body of work on the horizon.

CASTAWAY RELEASE SOPHOMORE EP ‘NONDUAL’ AND TE REO REVERSIONED SINGLE ‘TEIHI’

Today, pop-rock 5-piece Castaway release their sophomore EP Nondual, alongside the Te Reo version of their 2024 heartfelt track ‘Daisy’ - retitled ‘Teihi’. Listen HERE. 

Castaway are the five brothers bound by music, friendship, and a flat in Ōtautahi Christchurch where songs are born between dinner-table laughs and queues for the dryer. The band is made up of Austen (bass), Jack (saxophone, keys), Jackson(vocals, keys, guitar), Joe (vocals, drums), and Rhys (guitar). Their sound is a shameless fusion of anthemic pop hooks and rock energy, built to make crowds sing, dance, and feel everything all at once.

At a Castaway show, you don’t just watch - you get pulled into a wave of soaring choruses, driving guitars, and lyrics that cut straight to the heart. Influenced by the stadium-filling spirit of The Killers, the emotional sweep of Coldplay, and the modern edge of Inhaler and The 1975, Castaway turned shared stories of young love, growing pains, and the search for meaning into songs that stick in your head and your chest.

Since forming in their first year of university, the band has grown from jam sessions in the student halls to sharing the stage with Mitch James and Drax Project, lighting up Selwyn Sounds, and being spun on ZM, The Hits, More FM, Radio Hauraki, and RNZ. Nondual captures that journey of five boys figuring it out together to a band finding their voice.

Nondual is more than just the sophomore EP for the band - it’s a defining moment in their story. The title, inspired by a philosophy class, refers to the idea that everything is connected, that opposites are simply two sides of the same coin. For Castaway, the concept resonated deeply. It reflected their own path: five students from different corners of Aotearoa New Zealand, once pursuing engineering, psychology, product design, and philosophy, choosing to unite around music and give it everything. That idea of unity runs through Nondual. Across the six tracks, the band explores the spectrum of human connection: young love, heartbreak, long distance, deception, grief, and hope. Each song is a different interpretation of nonduality in the context of relationships, with the contrasting experiences bound together as the same whole.

The writing process began while the lads were living together in 2020, across dinners, parties, and late-night deep and meaningfuls in their rooms. It further took shape during the Artist Development Program at SOLE Music Academy in Christchurch under the guidance of the powerhouse that is Sacha Vee. Castaway were then taken under the wing of critically acclaimed and renowned producer Greg Haver, who helped shape their raw ideas into something polished yet true to their identity. Recording sessions followed in 2023 and 2024 at The Lab in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland with engineer Scott Seabright. 

Some songs arrive at the exact moment they’re needed. For Castaway, that song was their 2024 release, ‘Daisy’. Originally written after guitarist Rhys lost his grandmother, ‘Daisy’ began as a way of making sense of grief. In a haunting twist of timing, the song was written in the same year that bassist Austen lost his mother to breast cancer. Suddenly, ‘Daisy’ carried even greater weight. Its themes of absence, longing, and remembering a guiding presence at the dinner table or in quiet moments of need became deeply personal for the whole band.

Today’s announcement sees Castaway re-release ‘Daisy’ in te reo Māori, retitling it ‘Teihi’. This decision reflected the band’s own journey of connecting with te ao Māori. Inspired by artists like Lorde, Six60, and Drax Project, who had also released te reo versions of their songs, Castaway saw an opportunity to connect with te ao Māori while deepening the song’s meaning and embarking further on their own journey with the language.

To ensure authenticity, the band collaborated with Regan “Kupu” Stokes, a registered translator and teacher of te reo Māori who also tutors Austen. Releasing ‘Teihi’ is a source of pride and gratitude. It’s a step toward embracing te ao Māori as part of Castaway’s identity as New Zealanders and musicians, and they hope it inspires listeners to embark on their own journeys with the language.

Above all, Nondual and ‘Teihi’ are time capsules, bottling the triumphs and heartaches of a pivotal year in Castaway’s life and offering listeners not just songs but an invitation to share in the experience. Looking back, the band sees Nondual as the leap that transformed them from students into musicians. Looking forward, it’s the launchpad for everything to come with a debut album already in the works, and a determination to push the boundaries of what pop rock can be.
 

Nondual and ‘Teihi’ by Castaway are out now, stream here.

NORRIE RETURNS HOME FOR 10TH CRACK AT ASB CLASSIC GLORY IN AUCKLAND

Off the back of the biggest win in his storied career over World No 1 Carlos Alcaraz this week, Kiwi-raised Cameron Norrie has confirmed his return to the ASB Classic in January.

The 30-year-old British player, who grew up in Auckland, will be back to compete at the Manuka Doctor Arena for the 10th time.

Norrie, who rose to a career-high No 8 in the world, has worked his way back from a lengthy injury layoff to reach No. 31 this week. His outstanding first-time victory over Alcaraz this week has moved him into the third round at the prestigious Paris Masters and will likely see his ranking rise to No 27 next week.

The 1.88m left-hander learned the game at Bucklands Beach Tennis Club and was a regular fan at the ASB Classic as a youngster. He moved to the US on a tennis scholarship before switching tennis allegiance to Great Britain, where his parents were born and where he was able to receive significant support and backing.

He first played at the ASB Classic as a teenager, twice finishing runner-up in 2019, where he dropped just one set all tournament before losing to American Tennys Sandgren in the final. He was also runner-up two years ago against French veteran, Richard Gasquet after winning the first set.

Norrie will return buoyed by his form and the victory over Alcaraz.

“Massive, so big for me. I have been coming back from my injury. I have just tried to enjoy my tennis in the second half of the year and I was able to do that and to get a win like this, the biggest of my career, my first over a World No. 1 and especially against the most confident player in the world right now,” said Norrie.

ASB Classic Tournament Director, Nicolas Lamperin is delighted that Norrie will return for his 10th appearance in Auckland.

“Cam learned the game in Auckland and he spent a number of years as a young fan watching here which fuelled his desire to become a world-class tennis player,” said Lamperin.

“There is no-one who would like their name on the trophy at the ASB Classic more than Cam. We are indebted to his on-going support for our tournament, and we are sure that his fans, especially from the Bucklands Beach Tennis Club, will be out in force to support him.

“Tennis is a massively challenging game, but made even more difficult when players face the extra challenge of returning from injury. 

“No-one works harder at his craft and gets the more out of his game than Cam. And off the court, all our ASB Classic team and our sponsors cannot speak more highly about his support for our tournament and the way he conducts himself back in Auckland.”

Lamperin said that he is currently negotiating with several other players and hopes to announce a further key signing next week.

The 2026 ASB Classic takes place in Auckland from January 5 to 17, bringing together world-class players, entertainment, and the unique summer atmosphere that has made it one of New Zealand’s premier sporting events. 

This summer, the ASB Classic welcomes a bold new look, bringing more colour, energy and style to every corner of the tournament. Fans can look forward to a buzzing atmosphere, refreshed menus, a wider range of food and beverage options, and lively partner activations, capturing the very best of summer in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland.

Debuting in 2026, the Lexus Terrace marks an exciting new addition to the ASB Classic, with Lexus joining as naming rights partner for the reimagined Pōhutukawa Terrace. The premium space will feature sensational centre-court views, a covered terrace with padded seating, and the introduction of in-seat food and beverage service. The fan experience is also set for a major upgrade, with improved terraces, shaded areas, and the new Robinson Stand, offering more space to relax, dine and mingle, all with enhanced views of the on-court action.