‘CYCLORAMA’, NZ’S FIRST E-BIKE FESTIVAL TO LAUNCH IN ARROWTOWN THIS NOVEMBER

The first event of its kind in NZ will see riders descend on Arrowtown for a weekend of curated trail experiences.

This November (13th and 14th) will see Arrowtown welcome the first annual Cyclorama e-bike festival. Riders from across New Zealand will have the opportunity to purchase tickets for bespoke adventures and fun trails curated to complement the natural surroundings and regional heritage.

Organiser of the event, Dave Gibson says “While international travel is still restricted Cyclorama is the perfect chance for the growing number of Kiwi e -bike riders to take part in an event that is specially designed for them. We are excited about offering a weekend with a great mix of fun activities, unique experiences and the chance to experience the incredible rivers, lakes and mountains Arrowtown and its surrounds are famous for.”

The inaugural festival will boast nine different trails and rides themed around birdwatching, art, beer and wine tasting plus a special ‘Tour de Gourmet’. And more adventurous riders can stretch themselves with a mountain ride dubbed ‘Cyclopath’.

Complementing the rides will be a weekend of trade stalls and entertainment based on Arrowtown’s Butlers Green, where bike retailers will showcase bikes and accessories. The weekend will also offer a special orienteering event for families taking place on Sunday afternoon themed around Arrowtown’s goldmining history.

The full programme of events and activities taking place on 13th/14th November in Arrowtown is on the website cyclorama.co.nz

NEW ZEALANDER NICK AFOA ANNOUNCED AS THE LEAD ROLE OF SIMBA IN THE LION KING INTERNATIONAL TOUR

THE DISNEY INTERNATIONAL TOUR PREMIERES IN AUCKLAND THIS JUNE 24TH

Kiwi performer Nick Afoa has been announced to reprise his role as Simba in THE LION KING International Tour’s Auckland season. The unparalleled theatre experience will open at Spark Arena on June 24th for a strictly limited season. Audiences are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their seats, with close to 100,000 tickets already sold.

Having previously held the role of Simba in both Sydney and on London’s West End, New Zealander Nick Afoa is delighted to join THE LION KING in his home town of Auckland.

Nick Afoa commented on his casting: “I’m over the moon to be reprising this incredibly special role in my home country. It’s a tremendous honour to be a part of this amazing show, and I can’t wait to perform in front of my friends and whānau at Spark Arena.”

Raised in Mangere and Papatoetoe, Afoa was a talented rugby union player growing up. He belonged to Ponsonby Rugby Football Club, before being selected to play for New Zealand in the 2004 Under 19 World Cup in South Africa. At age 27, Afoa’s head was turned to musical theatre, and in 2013 he stepped into the lead role of Simba for THE LION KING in Sydney. In 2016, Afoa joined the production in London, a role he held until the Covid Pandemic closed the West End in early 2020.

Producer for the International Tour, Michael Cassel commented “We are incredibly excited to have been able to cast New Zealand’s own Nick Afoa in this coveted role for our Auckland season. Joining us from the West End production of The Lion King, we can’t wait to welcome him to the stage at Spark Arena from June 24th.”

On behalf of the local presenter, Spark Arena, Michael Coppel said: “Spark Arena are thrilled to have Nick join the cast, and look forward to seeing him perform in front of his first-ever home crowd.”

Due to overwhelming demand, THE LION KING International Tour has added an additional matinee performance to its strictly limited Auckland season during school holidays. The production holds the record as the fastest-selling musical theatre show in New Zealand.

Tickets for all sessions, including the recently announced Wednesday 14th July matinee performance, are on sale now at Ticketmaster

THE LION KING is a worldwide phenomenon that redefines the expectations of theatre.

Having played in over 100 cities in 20 countries, over 100 million people have experienced THE LION KING, making it the most successful musical in theatrical history. The acclaimed director, Julie Taymor, has created a spectacular show for Kiwi audiences who will be treated to extraordinary performances by a talented and diverse international company, comprising 16 nationalities.

For further information about THE LION KING and to purchase tickets visit: lionkinginternational.com/auckland

THE LION KING is proudly supported by its event partner - Auckland Unlimited, on behalf of Auckland Council.

NEW ZEALAND MUSIC MONTH | TE MARAMA PUORO O AOTEAROA

Nau mai, haere mai. We’re in our final week of NZ Music Month 2021 | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa! It’s been a jam-packed month of announcements, tours, releases and events, with every corner of the country being treated to local music this May. The fourth week in May is no different, with plenty to do to round off NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa in style. 
 
The theme for this year is Access All Aotearoa - celebrating local music for all New Zealanders, in every place, for every age, and in every genre. Thanks for tuning in to this weekly EDM as we highlight all the fantastic events around our supremely talented country!
 
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:

• Air New Zealand have been getting in behind Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa all month, with 100% local music on board from Teeks, Maisey Rika and more. Their inflight entertainment system has a NZ Music Month Special, with their favourite local songs and artist selections - where NZ musicians pick their top tunes from Aotearoa, including diverse tracks ranging from LEISURE to Fetus Productions, and PHF to Goldenhorse. The inflight Kia Ora Magazine has great story on the Archive of NZ Music at Alexander Turnbull Library, and every flight landing in Aotearoa this May is treated to the dulcet tones of Paige, with Waves as the landing to gate track.

• NZ Musician have recently released their May/June issue, featuring 52 beautiful pages focused entirely on local music. The issue features articles on almost 20 different artists, including Merk, Team Dynamite, Foley, Park Rd, Pickle Darling and more. Check out some of the fantastic stories online, or purchase a hard copy from their website here.
  

• Sky Sports NZ have been celebrating NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa with some of our biggest sports stars talking about their favourite local tunes. Check out some of their top picks here.
  

• AMS Nightlife have been pulling out all the stops this May through their CrowdDJ NZ platform with daily featured artists on their music selection devices and apps in venues across Aotearoa. Check out their Artist of the Day list on Instagram and take the AMS Nightlife Great NZ Music Quiz here.
  

• Glengarry Wines have shown incredible support this NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa, hosting a series of in-store events and promotions throughout May. Recently they hosted Vinyl @ Vic Park, which saw a packed record fair, with Park Rd and VIKAE taking the stage for a special in-store performance. Glengarry have also generously donated all proceeds from every purchase of Titos and Framingham Wines to MusicHelps. To top it all off, they’ve been playing 100% local music throughout all their stores.

• Framingham Wines have been absolute champions this month – they collaborated with Glengarry on their activations, supported the Art of the Record exhibition, held shows at Framingham Underground at their Blenheim Vineyard, ran nationwide t-shirt giveaways, made playlists and dressed their entire staff in NZMM tees. It’s all been to raise funds for MusicHelps – ngā mihi nui to the team at Framingham Wines!

• The one-stop for all your musical needs Rockshop have been hosting regular giveaways through their social channels. By giving away an instrument every week, Rockshop have gone on to help Kiwi’s expand their musical repertoire with this kind show of generosity. And check out the Rockshop special NZ Music Month Level Up series over on their website, which profiles NZ musicians - including Jon Toogood, Swap Gomez, Valkyrie and many more - with tips and tricks to encourage Kiwis to take their music to the next level.

• This year's official NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa t-shirt was unlike any previous years, with the 2021 piece featuring ten of the most iconic pieces of music equipment out of our country. Sold through JB Hi-Fi, the team have generously donated the full proceeds to MusicHelps. Limited ‘Collectors’ shirts are still available at JB Hi-Fi stores around the country and online.

KEY EVENTS

• The annual New Zealand Music Month Summit returns to Auckland’s S @ Spark Arena on Saturday 29th. This year's panels feature topics on producing, touring, radio and the process of funding. Speakers from bFM, NZ On Air, NZ Music Commission and RNZ will be there along with artists and producers such as SickDrumz, LMC, PollyHill and Gussie from Mermaidens, who will be there to share their personal insights on the industry. While the event is sold out, it will be live streamed through the MMF and NZ Music Commission Facebook and YouTube channels.

• This Friday is NZ Music T-Shirt Day! Dig out your favourite band merch and get involved to help out a fantastic cause. Text MUSIC to 2448 to donate $3 to help MusicHelps continue to support Kiwi musicians and crew through hard times. Use the hashtag #nzmusictshirtday to spread the word on socials and visit the website for more info.

• The Art of the Record exhibition makes its last stop in Dunedin this week, taking over the space at 19 George Street, just off the Octagon, for the final installation of this celebration of artwork from the last 21 years of NZ music.

• Boosted will be joining in on the NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa action by hosting an online masterclass on crowdfunding this Wednesday. Free for all, this masterclass will cover how you can run crowdfunding campaigns to earn you that extra bit to go towards your next project or tour with musical alumni leading the programme. For more information head to the Facebook event.

• Wellington based collective Eyegum will be hosting a night of some of the finest indie talent the capital has to offer. At this special one-off event at Wellington Museum, Eyegum will bring along Sure Boy, Wiri Donna and Violet Hurst for a rocking night amongst the artefacts. Entry is by koha from when doors open at 8pm this Friday.

• Christchurch’s Darkroom will be celebrating a night of homegrown music this upcoming Saturday with Christchurch artists covering Christchurch songs. Presenting Circle Jerk, eight acts will take the stage from the past and present Christchurch scene such as Cold Shower, Just Another June and Violet French. With 100% of profits going to MusicHelps, head along to enjoy Kiwi music while donating to a great cause.
  

• This Sunday, head along to Meow in Wellington to Eastern Sound Collective’s first live event. Formed at the end of 2020, the collective was created by a small group of Wellington based musicians, with the aim to bring together artists and creatives of Asian and South Asian heritage to build a support network and improve representation in the industry. The first event will feature Abrzy, Nam Chucks, Sujai, Miss Leading and Karnan Saba, with tickets available here.

• Small Hall Sessions kicks off this Wednesday with Barry Saunders and Delaney Davidson taking over five local community halls and centres around Hawkes Bay. This exclusive series brings to life these small halls that otherwise don’t see acts of this stature. An intimate setting for rural towns to get amongst, there’s nothing quite like this in the country. For more information and tickets head to the Small Hall Sessions website.

• After kicking off music month with Mikey Dam, Spark Sessions returns with a double headline for the final week. Harper Finn and Cassie Henderson will take the stage for a free live stream this Wednesday. Finn recently came off his tour with LA Women after releasing his new single She Said, while Cassie Henderson released an acoustic version of her latest single Burn Brighter. Simply head along to Spark’s Facebook page at 7:30pm to enjoy.

• West Auckland will host an exclusive workshop with Phil Dadson and Adrian Croucher (From Scratch) on DIY Instruments. After a very successful free workshop, this one will be ticketed with attendees able to take home their instruments. There’s nothing quite like this so get on down and expand your musical skill set, with tickets still available here!

• Aotearoa rap veteran Raiza Biza will be bringing a very special show to Auckland’s Ponsonby Social Club this Friday night. Celebrating the release of his Summer in Retrograde album, Biza will be hitting the stage accompanied by a live band. Bringing a more stripped down approach to his set, get your tickets to see a unique Biza experience.

ON AIR NEWS:

• Dunedin’s Radio One 91FM has just kicked off its 100% NZ Music Week which will feature special guest selections from Radio One's former Breakfast Show hosts DJ Andy Flyboy, Emma Dish, Jungle Fari, and Mayor Aaron Hawkins, with and live to air performances on the Radio One 91FM Breakfast and Drive shows.

• In Palmerston North, Radio Control 99.4FM are also 100% local this week, with exclusive artist interviews, and live to air performances of NZ bangers and local bangers!

• RNZ Music has been shining a light on some of their favourite local sessions this May with Church & AP, Jack Page, Le Art, Devilskin, Merk & more. Head over to the RNZ Music Facebook page to catch up on the goodness.

• The Rock will be hosting their very own free gig this Sunday at Auckland’s Sweatshop Brew Kitchen. Their Sweet As Sunday Session features some of the best up and coming rock bands across the country with Racing, Deadbeat, Capitol Theatre, Cherry Blind and Fyveyes all taking the stage. Kicking off at 3pm, get on down into the city for a free gig of local rock.

• 95bFM Fancy New Bands takes over Whammy & Wine Cellar this Friday for their annual showcase of emerging acts you need to know. This year’s line-up features Emmanuelle, Zoe Moon, Grecco Romank, Ilena, Masaya, Soul Levasa, Van Staden & Böhm, Ludus and Jules Acab. It’s free entry, but you can (and should!) make a koha for the performers.

• Radio Hauraki are wrapping up their month of the Locals Only Take Over on Nights, where NZ artists pop in for a chat and take over the playlist. There’s been loads going on over at Hauraki – check out their website for interviews with The Nudge, Miles Calder, Tablefox and more!

KEY RELEASES

• Kiwi country singer Miranda Eastern released her long awaited debut album Behind Unbroken Strings last week, following her singles Cowboy Lullaby and Country Boy have made waves across the globe. Click here to listen to the album.
  

• The mighty Datsuns return this Friday with their seventh studio album Eye To Eye. Preceded by the singles Dehumanise, Suspicion and Brain to Brain, all feature striking artwork by Callum Rooney.

• 23-year old Max Earnshaw released his brand new single What We Made last Friday, with the multi-layered song exploring themes of walking away from a relationship and everything that was built together, good and bad. Created during the 2020 lockdown, the song follows his previous four singles, including Stay which debuted at #12 on the Hot NZ Singles Chart. Check it out here!

• Singer songwriter Paul S Allen has been a stalwart live performer for more than 30 years in Dunedin. After a busy month, including performing at the Nook & Cranny Festival, Paul S Allen has released his second full album And He Flies.

• Rising star RIIKI has delivered a sonic switch up with her latest single In The Moment, delving into a world of melancholic sentiment and R&B infused pop, showcasing her diverse sound. The song’s inspiration stemmed on the final day of her overseas trip, while RIIKI was feeling motions of homesickness distracting her from being present in the moment encapsulating the experience, and can be streamed here.
  

• Kiwi indie haze band The Butlers dropped the single and video for Time last Friday, from their upcoming EP Kaikoura Conceptions coming this Friday. Riding high on a recent run of summer festival appearances and sold-out headline shows, The Butlers have created a loyal fan base through their summery, relaxed sound.
  

• Indie favourites Mako Road have treated fans to not only their brand new single Don’t Keep Me Waiting, but have also announced that their highly-anticipated debut album Stranger Days is coming in July, followed by an Australian and NZ album tour in August and September. Tickets are on sale now!
  

• Venice dropped Queen of the Night on Friday, with support of industry heavyweights including Ratu Gordon, Laughton Kora and Tiki Taane, with the single produced and mixed at Auckland’s iconic Roundhead Studios. Featuring one of the world’s most proficient and respected bass players Dan Antonovich, the single comes with a live performance from The Civic in Auckland.
  

• Louis Baker has released a soul-stirring and deeply personal single and video with Brighter Day, released last Friday. The single pays tribute to the triumphs and adversities faced by his Koro, with Baker revealing he wrote the song for his grandfather he never met, who always kept a positive mindset and looked for brighter days ahead. Listen to the song here, and check out the video directed by Anahera Parata here.
  

• Kiwi new-wave indie-soul four-piece Souldrop delivered their latest video for new single Cadet. Renowned for their summery surf rock, Souldrop have developed a genre-bending sound, infusing elements of reggae, rock, pop, jazz, funk and a dash of psychedelic lemon. The group have released two EPs in consecutive years, Hazy Days and a self-titled EP, and promise fans that more is on the way very soon.
  

• Wellington-based musician ZÖ has released her newest single Origami, a sign of what’s to come from her brand new EP that is set to be released later this year. Reflecting on the song, she says “this song is about realising I need to work on myself, that I’m the only one who can make it happen, but sometimes I forget and slip back into my old ways.” Listen to the profoundly personal single here.

 
KEY TOURS
 
It might be the last week of NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa, but that doesn’t mean live shows are slowing down. Every corner of the country is being treated this week; The Butlers and Muroki hit Wellington, Dunedin and Christchurch this week while rising-pop artist PRINS is touring the South Island for two free shows. The Theia X Vayne CREEP tour is coming to a close with shows in Whakatane and Gisborne, Miles Calder continues his album-release tour visiting Leigh, Dan Sharp finishes up his enormous nationwide tour when he plays in Mt Maunganui this Friday, and you can catch CHAII in Auckland and Wellington this weekend. For a list of tours, gigs and shows playing around this country this week, click here.

https://www.nzmusicmonth.co.nz/ 
#nzmusicmonth
#nzmm2021

TRAILER RELEASED FOR NEW LOCAL THRILLER COMING HOME IN THE DARK FOLLOWING RAVE REVIEWS AT SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL

DIRECTED BY JAMES ASHCROFT, OWEN MARSHALL’S CHILLING SHORT STORY COMES TO LIFE ON THE BIG SCREEN

Following its world premiere at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, the gripping trailer for new local film Coming Home in the Dark has today been unveiled. Confirmed for nationwide cinema release on 12th August, the nail-biting thriller follows a teacher who is forced to confront a secret from his past when a pair of ruthless drifters take his family on a nightmare road-trip.

Based on a short story written by award-winning New Zealand author Owen Marshall, Coming Home in the Dark’s screenplay was adapted by James Ashcroft and his long-time collaborator, writer Eli Kent (Millie Lies Low). As both director and executive producer, the film is James Ashcroft’s feature film directorial debut. Coming Home in the Dark stars Daniel Gillies (The Vampire Diaries), Erik Thomson (The Luminaries), Miriama McDowell (Head High) and Matthias Luafutu (Ghost in the Shell).

Ashcroft describes Coming Home in the Dark’s short story as both brutal and poetic, capturing his attention immediately. Ashcroft first optioned the story ten years ago, commenting: “I was utterly compelled by its tone and setting, along with its events and characters. It’s a huge privilege for us to have been trusted in bringing Owen Marshall’s work to the screen. I’m looking forward to sharing this simple, terrifying and universal story with Kiwi audiences.”

Tipped by Variety magazine as one of their ’11 hottest movies for sale’ at Sundance Film Festival, Coming Home in the Dark was described by Variety’s Guy Lodge as “an unexpected left turn from its genre course, wading into tricky moral territory and not giving simple satisfaction.”

Coming Home in the Dark is produced by Mike Minogue (Talkback), Catherine Fitzgerald (Bellbird) and Desray Armstrong (Juniper) under Homecoming Productions banner. With investment from The New Zealand Film Commission, Coming Home in the Dark is distributed in New Zealand and Australia by Monster Pictures. Penguin Random House are set to re-release Owen Marshall’s short story in August, to time with the film’s release in nationwide cinemas.

TRAILER UNVEILED FOR NEW KIWI FILM ‘THE JUSTICE OF BUNNY KING’ STARRING ESSIE DAVIS AND THOMASIN MCKENZIE

THE FILM WILL RECEIVE ITS WORLD PREMIERE AT TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL, FOLLOWED BY A NATIONWIDE CINEMA RELEASE ON JULY 29

The dramatic trailer for new Kiwi film The Justice of Bunny King has today been released ahead of its world premiere at Tribeca Film Festival this June. Starring multi award-winning actor Essie Davis (The Babadook) alongside critically acclaimed local actor Thomasin McKenzie (Jojo Rabbit), The Justice of Bunny King will release in nationwide cinemas on July 29th.

The Justice of Bunny King is Gaysorn Thavat’s directorial debut on a feature film. Thavat’s short film Brave Donkey was selected for BFI London Film Festival, Locarno Festival and Melbourne International Film Festival.

Written by Sophie Henderson (Baby, Done), The Justice of Bunny King tells the story of Bunny King, a mother of two, a rough-cut diamond with a sketchy past. While battling the system to reunite with her children, a confrontation leads her to take her niece Tonyah under her wing. With the world against her and Tonyah, Bunny’s battle has just begun.

"Films like this simply do not get made without the generosity and passion of many. The Justice of Bunny King is a film that celebrates the courage of ordinary women facing extraordinary struggles, and I look forward to bringing it home for the women of Aotearoa who inspired it,” said director Gaysorn Thavat.

Essie Davis added: “I think it’s a really important story and one that gives a voice to people who are often not heard. Bunny is a woman full of life and full of fury who will never give up on her children.”

Commenting on what drew her to the project, Thomasin McKenzie said: “I'm attracted to stories that mean something and that are worth telling. I knew that it was a female lead and it was using a female director, and director of photography, editor, producer, writer and so was really attracted to that power it had behind it.”

Produced by Emma Slade of Firefly Films (Come to Daddy), The Justice of Bunny King was made with financing from the New Zealand Film Commission and its 125 Fund, and with assistance from the New Zealand Government’s Screen Production Grant and Screen Production Recovery Fund.

Madman Entertainment will distribute the film in Australia and New Zealand with world sales handled by Protagonist. The Tribeca Film Festival runs 9-20 June 2021, both online and in person at select cinemas across New York City.

KIWI POP SENSATION BENEE ANNOUNCES REGIONAL ‘AOTEAROA TOUR’

Formidable indie-pop sensation and rising global superstar BENEE has today announced a nationwide regional tour for August. BENEE will visit every corner of the country, hitting eight different towns and cities throughout the month. The ‘Supalonely’ singer has had an incredible 18 months, from releasing her debut album ‘Hey U X’, to sharing the album with Kiwi crowds on a sold-out eight-date tour in late 2020 and, being named on Forbes 30 under 30 Asia 2021 list. Worldwide streams in the billions have made her one of the most exciting new acts to have emerged anywhere. 

Following the success of her October tour, BENEE recognised that fans outside the main centres don’t often get the opportunity to experience full-scale pop concerts in their own backyards. Throughout August, she will bring her trademark infectious energy to crowds across Aotearoa to get people up on their feet for a groove-worthy night. 

BENEE will perform eight headline shows across the country, visiting New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Porirua, Invercargill, Nelson, Tauranga, Napier and Hamilton. The ‘Aotearoa Tour’ will kick off at the TSB Stadium in New Plymouth on August 6th, spanning right through the month and ending at Hamilton’s Claudelands Arena on August 28th. 

Tickets start from $49.90 (excluding booking fees) and go on sale at 12pm Thursday, May 27. VIP experiences will also be available for the tour, giving fans the chance to meet BENEE pre-show, gain early access to the venue for a prime viewing spot, and receive an exclusive tour gift. VIP experiences start at $139.90 (excluding booking fees).

Vodafone customers will be among the first to secure tickets during the pre-sale starting at 10am Monday, May 24 until 10am Wednesday, May 26. Go to vodafone.co.nz/music for more information.

Live Nation and Ticketek NZ customers will have the chance to get early tickets during the pre-sale starting at 11am Wednesday, May 26 until 11am Thursday, 27 May.  

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

BENEE is the dreamy voice of a disaffected generation. She broke out around the world with “Supalonely,” an alt-pop ballad about unwanted isolation, a sentiment that found her a lot of friends in 2020. Billions of streams later, she returned with the guest-packed, yet highly personal Hey u x and a southern summer of sold out shows around her home country.

She has not only performed on a string of major television shows including The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Ellen Degeneres Show and Late Night With Seth Meyers, but appeared alongside doting fan Elton John on his Apple Music Rocket Hour radio show.

Additionally, she was named Apple Up Next Artist July 2020, nominated for MTV VMA “Push Best New Artist” 2020, MTV EMA “Best Push” Artist 2020, E! People’s Choice Awards New Artist of 2020. She has collected seven New Zealand Aotearoa Music Awards in the past two years, twice taking home Single of the Year and Best Pop Artist categories, and her single “Glitter” won the APRA Silver Scroll songwriting prize in October. 

Supalonely is certified Platinum in eight countries including the US. In Australia, Supalonely, Glitter and Soaked are all Double Platinum records and Evil Spider and Find An Island are Gold – an impressive feat also matched in her home country. 

Her debut studio album, Hey u x was released to widespread acclaim in November 2020. The album featured Supalonely, her collaboration with Gus Dapperton, as well as a diverse set of artists including Grimes, Flo Milli, Kenny Beats, UK artists Lily Allen and Bakar, Australian singer Mallrat and fellow Kiwi, Muroki.

She is very much looking forward to the time she will be able to share her sparkling live show with international crowds again, having last toured the world in late 2019.

Supporting BENEE, will be one of New Zealand’s most exciting up-and-coming indie rock/pop bands, THERE’S A TUESDAY. Picked to support by BENEE herself, the group consists of two female front women, Nat Hutton and Minnie Robberds, both on guitars and vocals, with Angus Murray on the drums and Joel Becker holding it down on the bass. After receiving critical acclaim for their debut EP in November 2020, followed by a busy summer festival season, There’s A Tuesday are poised to have a massive 12 months. 

Get ready to experience BENEE in the regions! This is a tour not to be missed. 

BENEE
AOTEAROA TOUR

TSB STADIUM, NEW PLYMOUTH FRIDAY AUGUST 6
CENTRAL ENERGY TRUST STADIUM, PALMERSTON NORTH SATURDAY AUGUST 7
TE RAUPARAHA ARENA, PORIRUA SUNDAY AUGUST 8
ILT STADIUM SOUTHLAND, INVERCARGILL THURSDAY AUGUST 12
TRAFALGAR CENTRE, NELSON SATURDAY AUGUST 14
TRUSTPOWER ARENA, TAURANGA FRIDAY AUGUST 20
PETTIGREW GREEN ARENA, NAPIER SATURDAY AUGUST 21
CLAUDELANDS ARENA, HAMILTON SATURDAY AUGUST 28

TICKETS ON SALE 12PM THURSDAY, MAY 27
Vodafone customers can secure tickets first during the exclusive pre-sale beginning 10am Monday, May 24
Live Nation & Ticketek pre-sales begin 11am Wednesday, May 26

For complete tour, ticket and VIP information, visit:
beneemusic.com & livenation.co.nz

NEW ZEALAND MUSIC MONTH | TE MARAMA PUORO O AOTEAROA

Nau mai, haere mai. It’s week three of NZ Music Month 2021 | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa and it’s showing no sign of slowing down! Check out what’s on this week - from shows, events, announcements, releases and more, there’s plenty of ways to celebrate. The theme for this year is Access All Aotearoa - celebrating local music for all New Zealanders, in every place, for every age, and in every genre.
 
These weekly e-newsletters showcase the great activity planned across Aotearoa throughout May, with a huge number of events taking place from the top of the country to the bottom. We’d love to hear from you with any suggested newsletter inclusions, interview requests or further information, so please do get in touch.
 
KEY NEWS:

• Mental health and wellbeing organisation Voices of Hope have launched their Music Holds Hope campaign, engaging local artists to chat about their experiences with mental health struggles. The campaign aims to highlight the mental health issues that musicians often face in the industry, with appearances from Rei, Foley, Michael Murphy, Abby Lee Harder and Denel. The first video with Rei dropped last week, check it out here.
  

• The NZ Music Month Summit 2021 has been announced! Registrations have been super-busy for this annual event, which will be held at S @ Spark Arena in Auckland on Saturday 29 May. If you miss out on a coveted ticket, fear not – the Summit will be streamed online from 10am on the day.

• The Palmerston North City Library have curated their favourite Kiwi tracks into one fantastic playlist to celebrate NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa, available to stream here.

• The Project featured Christchurch band The Butlers on the show last week, finding out all about their unique indie sound before they hit the road with Muroki next weekend.

• The formidable PollyHill has been announced as Live Nation & Vodafone’s Ones to Watch artist for May. Joining a stellar line-up of other Ones to Watch alumni, PollyHill’s music has been shared on the global platform that aims to introduce audiences to brand new music. Check out her interview here, where she chats about how she got into music and what’s up next for her.
  

KEY EVENTS:

• Tiki Taane will be gracing the stage at Christchurch’s Douglas Lilburn Auditorium for this special one-off performance with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra on May 21st. As one of the country’s most famed and diverse artists, Taane has constantly and effortlessly flowed through various different genres. Bringing along special guests MC Tali, Big Sigma and Charlie, and Karcia, this evening will be full of joyful surprises. Tickets are still available for this unique experience here.

• SNIFFERS have partnered with Jameson to bring together one of the biggest free shows the country will see this NZ Music Month. On May 22nd, MELODOWNZ, Wax Mustang, PollyHill and Katanyagi Twins will take over Auckland’s Studio for a one-off, first-come-first-served free show. Simply turn up on the night and get in to see some of the freshest hip-hop in Aotearoa. More details available here.

• Wellington based record label Meow are bringing up some of their finest acts to Auckland’s Powerstation. Bringing acts from around the country, the Powerstation will be home to some of the finest indie acts that Aotearoa has to offer. The Butlers, Molly & The Chromatics, There’s A Tuesday and Michael James Keane will be taking the stage for this huge headline show, with tickets available here.

• Throughout May, remember nights and gigs gone by on guided tours of Auckland inner city’s most iconic music venues and sites. Music historian Gareth Shute will guide you through a free, hour-long journey that explores the history of Auckland’s live music scene, past and present. Revisit former variety show halls, jazz and rock clubs, coffee lounges, and punk, R&B, and dance music haunts. For those who can’t make it, download the AKL City Tours app and select 'Historical Music Venues Trail' for a self-guided tour of some of Auckland's most beloved music venues. Check out all further info here.

• The Art of the Record exhibition makes its South Island debut this week after starting in Auckland and Wellington. Now it’s Christchurch’s time to revel in the presence of Aotearoa’s most iconic album artwork. Head along to The Arts Centre’s Pūmanawa exhibition space this week before it's too late.

• Another exhibition kicks off this week, From The Pit premieres some of the finest live music photography from around the country. Available to view in galleries in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, the exhibition will include images of BENEE, Devilskin, Villainy and Montell2099 amongst many others. There will also be a series of workshops and panel discussions available in Auckland and online with more info and exhibition details available here.

• Auckland’s Tuning Fork has just launched its monthly Thursday concert series, Thursdays I’m In Love. The latest edition will feature emerging artists from hip-hop, indie and pop with WHOSHOTSCOTT, Indyah and Levyne all gracing the stage of the newest series in Auckland. At a steal with only $10 tickets, get on down this Thursday with tickets here.

• Award-winning te reo Māori metal band Alien Weaponry will be heading to Hamilton for a very exclusive show with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra this Saturday. After Covid-19 halted their European tour, the band are exploring new local projects, including this performance. After performing in Hamilton this Saturday, Alien Weaponry are taking the show on the road, heading to Christchurch on May 27th.

• Legendary band Opshop are reuniting for one-night only in Christchurch this Friday for a very special benefit concert, with Gorilla Biscuit as support, the first band to ever win Smokefree Rockquest. Recently a life-long friend of Opshop and former member of Gorilla Biscuit suffered a serious health setback and the boys are fundraising to get them back on their feet. Head down to Christchurch’s The Good Home for this very rare reunion show with tickets still available.

• The annual Independent Music NZ Going Local seminar series hits Palmerston North and Wellington this week. With speakers from NZ Music Commission, NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS and Cuba Dupa, the free event will give aspiring musicians and industry professionals advice on how to navigate the music landscape. Simply register for Palmerston North and Wellington to guarantee your entry. The Palmerston North leg will be followed by a showcase from 8pm with Kokoa Nashi, SDW and shannengeorgiapeterson, and the next night a Wellington showcase with Edera, Valentina and Munkhouse will be at Meow.

• The Rotary Youth Music Festival will feature over 200 students from Palmerston North at 15 different cafes and bars this Saturday. The event is completely free at every venue, and there’s no shortage of events in Palmy so make sure you head along.

• World-renowned conductor Stephen Esnall will be sharing his knowledge and experiences in a one-off talk this Wednesday at Dunedin’s Petridish. Esnall has a storied career, starting when he conducted the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra at just 23. He’s gone on to conduct and teach in Russia, UK and Spain. Tickets are still available for this very exclusive night, including a discounted option for students.

• The Warratahs are making a return to the stage this Saturday at Christchurch’s Isaac Royal Theatre. Having built a household name reputation since the 1980s, their unique blend of country, folk and rock and roll have garnered them a loyal fan base. Bringing along Jackie Bristow, Adam McGrath and Ebony Lamb, The Warratahs will have these musicians carousel throughout their performance to bring you this unique experience. For more information, tickets and exclusive hotel deals click here.

• For fans of metal, Auckland’s Thirsty Dog will play homage to the Swampkult Record’s Swampsong this Friday. Showcasing up and coming bands Head Lock Grave, Grym Rhymney and Project Bloodmoon. With tickets starting at just $5, it’s a night not to be missed for the headbangers out there.

• New Plymouth’s Puke Ariki Library will host a talk on the region's underground/punk scene. For the Underground Retrospective Talk, musicians from around Taranaki will share their advice and insight into the local scene at this free event. More info can be found here.

• Dunedin indie-rockers Ha The Unclear will be playing a very special one-off show at Auckland’s Freida Margolis, the same venue they played their first ever Auckland show in 2013. The group have been a staple in the scene since their incarnation, and after spending time recording for their new label in Paris, Ha The Unclear have come home to grace stages across the country. Get tickets to this very limited gig here.

ON AIR NEWS:

• Wellington’s student station RadioActive have kicked off their NZ Music Month series with Live on Location, a live performance series around the city's iconic venues. Starting last Saturday with Vanessa Worm live at Club 121, the station on 89FM have followed up with Mystery Waitress live at the new Flying Nun store.

• ZM debuted their new video series Studio Access, giving listeners a dive into the making of New Zealand’s biggest songs. Last Thursday the crew brought in pop sensation BENEE to break down her huge 2020 hit ‘Supalonley’, chatting through the lyrics, production, inspiration and more. Check it out here.

• New Plymouth’s independent radio station MostFM will be hosting a live acoustic night at their head offices on Saturday, featuring local musicians Renee Milner and Dave Pope. Tickets are just $25 and include snacks and refreshments - show your support for independent radio this weekend!

• The Rock are showing support for this year's New Zealand Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa with The Great Kiwi Roadie. Simply text ‘choice’ anytime you hear a Kiwi song on air and be in the draw to win $3,000 towards a Kiwi rock roadie gig of your choice.

• The Breeze will be playing classics every hour on weekdays between 10am - 3pm, with tunes from the likes of Dave Dobbyn, Bic Runga, Crowded House and many more, while the crew also give you a rundown of each track's history and success.

• IHeartRadio’s Kick station has been championing Kiwi artists this month, and caught up with one of the rising stars on Kiwi hip-hop, Hans. Watch his perform his song Caught Up as part of the Kick Couch Concert sessions here.

• The Slice of Bangers Countdown is coming to Pulzar FM on May 28th, to celebrate NZ Music Month. You can head over to Pulzar FM website now and vote for your favourite Kiwi track, and tune into the 50 track countdown next Friday, on air at 100.9FM and online via iHeartRadio.

KEY RELEASES:

• Pickle Darling are releasing their album Cosmonaut this Friday! Following their most recent single Boundless My Heart, prepare to be delighted by their electronic tunes.

• Botswana-born, Auckland-based hip hop artist Phodiso released his latest single War last Friday, the second release from his forthcoming EP Act II. Following up the release of Talk Too Much, the powerful hip hop track with an Afrikan flavour is an unapologetic celebration of how far the artist has come and his commitment to continuing to improve his craft. Check out the full EP next Friday, 28 May.

• IA have released the amazing new electronic single ‘Kōkōrangi’. IA teamed up with Te Toki Voyaging Trust - Waka Hourua and film director Moehau Hodges-Tai for a stunning performance video captured while sailing a traditional waka on the open ocean. ‘Kōkōrangi’ features the voices of the traditional Kōauau (bone flute) and Ponga Ihu (nose flute), celebrating the art of traditional pacific voyaging.

• CHAII has a new single ‘Oh Nah Yeah’ out on Friday 21 May, coinciding with the first date of her debut national tour.

• Salmonella Dub are releasing four digital singles this May, with the third ready to drop next Monday. You can check out ‘Searching For The Sungle’ on their Soundcloud from 24 May, and pre-orders for the collection as the six-track Soul Love Trippa 12" EP are available on their webstore here.

• Pulled from the eleven7four vault of tracks captured during the band’s trip to the Big Apple in 2019, their new single ‘Come Down’ releases this Friday, serving as a taster for their upcoming album' What The 1174 - Side 2’.

• ‘Call My Name’ is Troy Kingi’s first single from the upcoming album folk album ‘Black Sea Golden Ladder’, co-written with Delaney Davidson.

• REI has released his new dual single Urungi Autō / Drive Slow with both te reo and English versions of the track available. This is hot on the heels of the Sean Richards dnb remix of Good Mood – which has now been transformed to ‘Harakoa’, and is zooming up the local charts.

• KINGS’ fourth studio album The Rap List is out Friday 21 May. As you could guess from the name, the album is strictly beats and bars – and it’s all produced, written, mixed and mastered by Kings himself.

• Artist, songwriter, producer – and recently ‘Popstars’ judge! - Vince Harder has a new single releasing this Friday called ‘Don’t Stop’.

• Auckland rockers Dead Favours have their two-part album 'Riffing & Yelling', out on 21st May. Following on from their single 'Move On', released at the start of NZMM, the band are about to hit the road on a four-date tour with shows in Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington and Christchurch.

 
TOURS:
 
Week three of NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa follows in the footsteps of the two weeks before it, with a huge number of tours happening around the country. Every genre is being showcased this week, with heavy metal heads treated to Beastwars’ 10th Anniversary Tour, while those who are into a singer-songwriter vibe can check out Dan Sharp’s Water Went Away tour. Also touring this week is Theia x Vayne on their Creep tour, Miles Calder as he continues his album release tour around the country and Brave Caitlin Smith’s Imaginary Band. 

Check out the full list of tours happening around the country here.

https://www.nzmusicmonth.co.nz/ 
#nzmusicmonth
#nzmm2021

RUPAUL'S DRAG RACE DOWNUNDER OFFICIAL TOUR ANNOUNCED FOR 2021!

Start your engines New Zealand! RuPaul, the world’s most famous drag queen, has bought her hit competition franchise to New Zealand with RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under, and now the queens of season 1 are hitting the road! Prepare for an evening of eleganza extravaganza as this brand-new tour takes on Auckland’s Spark Arena on Friday, October 1, followed by Wellington’s Michael Fowler Centre on Saturday, October 2.

Tickets for all shows go on sale at 1pm Monday, May 24.
 
Vodafone customers can be among the first to secure tickets during the pre-sale starting on Wednesday May 19 at 11am. Go to vodafone.co.nz/events
 
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz

In 2009 RuPaul’s Drag Race, a show that celebrated the art of drag, debuted on a small LGBTQ+ network, and has since shattered all expectations by becoming a major influence in mainstream pop culture - having launched the careers of over 150+ drag queens around the world, inspired top fashion designers, consistently trended #1 on Twitter, and attracted mega-talented guest stars like Lady Gaga, Lizzo, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj and many more.

This October get ready to witness the Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent of the Season 1 queens LIVE on stage as they sashay into a venue near you!
 
*Bio of queens on tour below

RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE DOWNUNDER
QUEENS OF SEASON 1
OFFICIAL TOUR 2021

SPARK ARENA, AUCKLAND FRIDAY OCTOBER 1
MICHAEL FOWLER CENTRE, WELLINGTON SATURDAY OCTOBER 2


TICKETS ON SALE 1PM MONDAY, MAY 24
Vodafone customers can secure tickets first during the exclusive pre-sale beginning: Wednesday May 19 at 11am

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

ROCK STARS, STRIPTEASE, AND DRAG ROYALTY RUB SHOULDERS AT AUCKLAND LIVE’S CABARET SEASON THIS WINTER.

More than 140 astounding artists and performers including Tim Minchin, Finn Andrews and NZTrio, Anika Moa, Tami Neilson, Julia Deans and Hugo Grrrl come together for the delectable winter feast that is the 2021 Auckland Live Cabaret Season.

Auckland’s shining jewel, The Civic, will be taken over this June and July by an audacious line-up of more than 20 contemporary cabaret shows from across Aotearoa, featuring a rollcall of some of our boldest and most beautiful, intent on celebrating the sequins and stardust of the underground world of cabaret.

For ten days and nights (19 June – 4 July) audiences will see Kiwi musicians turn torch singers, burlesque stars reveal almost all, drag artists dazzle with innuendo and shade, and The Civic return to its roots as a picture palace par excellence with classic cinema programming.

Following sold-out shows across New Zealand in 2019, Tony Award-winning musical whirlwind Tim Minchin opens the season on 19 June with an encore performance of his hit show BACK, on the mainstage of The Civic.

The gob-stoppingly gorgeous theatre, built as a decadent picture palace in the Roaring 1920s, returns to its iconic roots as A Vintage Cabaret Cinema, screening cinema classics including Funny Girl, All That Jazz, and a special midnight screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Annie Crummer, Anika Moa, Georgia Lines, Paige and Tami Neilson, under the direction of Ria Hall, complete the stunning line-up of iconic and up-and-coming music artists celebrating Matariki and the power of wāhine toa in one of the most powerful and reaffirming live concerts of the year – TUAWAHINE – onstage at The Civic.

A spell-binding mix of reimagined classics, original songs, and waiata Māori with the backing of a live band, TUAWAHINE is an unmissable event of the Auckland Live Cabaret Season.

The haunting ghost of French cabaret icon Edith Piaf comes to life and is illuminated by the unforgettable voice of Yulia, backed by a 14-piece orchestra and band, in Edith Piaf à L'Olympia à Paris - a sweeping concert on The Civic stage transporting audiences to the scene of one of Piaf’s most powerful live performances at the legendary Paris Olympia in 1961.

As The Civic mainstage burns bright, high tea and song is served on the Mezzanine Balcony, cocktails are poured, and the secret, late night Piano Bar roars into life, drawing cabaret provocateurs and voyeurs alike.

The original scene of some of Auckland’s most scandalous cabaret highjinks, The Civic’s Wintergarden and its environs welcome a line-up of sublime divas, queens, and extroverts extraordinaire intent on seducing with their beauty, balls, and brains in an exquisitely curated programme of deliciously devastating music; powerful and erotic striptease; classic, classy Māori showband and cabaret comedy; iconic songbooks; exquisite soul; hardcore housie (just like bingo, only brown!); ‘70’s grrrl power and rock; legs for days; a fab foursome; glittery, family-friendly, garden drag; a sexy, sapphic slumber party; experimental cabaret developed right before your eyes; and a call to handcuff your husbands as Fine Fatale return with heels higher than ever, bringing the dance, doo wops and drips of the Pacific Moana in Fever: Return of Ula.

As The Civic prepares to celebrate its 92nd birthday, the 2021 Auckland Live Cabaret Season invites audiences to embrace the heritage landmark and its unique place in Auckland’s vibrant entertainment history.

Auckland Live and Auckland Conventions, Venues & Events director, Robbie Macrae, says throughout its colourful life The Civic has remained a symbol of the power live performance and entertainment has had in contributing richness, identity, and a sense of place to New Zealand’s largest city.

Now almost a century old, he says The Civic has rightly earned its international reputation as a much-coveted stage for some of the biggest names from the worlds of music, theatre, musicals, and dance.

Auckland Live programmer, Janelle Bish, agrees.
She says as the largest festival of its kind in New Zealand, the 2021 Auckland Live Cabaret Season’s sparkling programme befits the Civic legend.

“We’re proud and excited to present an unprecedented number of shows in the 2021 season, ten of which are world premieres that have been developed in partnership with Auckland Live,” says Janelle.

“It’s also a privilege to work alongside more than 140 New Zealand artists – a mix of emerging talent, established icons as well as Tim Minchin - sharing top billing and the stage to perform and share their magic with all of Tāmaki Makaurau.”

NEW ZEALAND MUSIC MONTH | TE MARAMA PUORO O AOTEAROA

Nau mai, haere mai. Welcome to week two of NZ Music Month 2021 | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa. Last week was filled with events, tours, releases and more, delivering an exciting week of activities for everyone. The theme for this year is Access All Aotearoa - celebrating local music for all New Zealanders, in every place, for every age, and in every genre.
 
These weekly e-newsletters showcase the great activity planned across Aotearoa throughout May, with a huge number of events taking place from the top of the country to the bottom. We’d love to hear from you with any suggested newsletter inclusions, interview requests or further information, so please do get in touch.
 
KEY NEWS:

• Live Nation and Vodafone’s Ones To Watch kicked off the New Zealand Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa festivities with an exclusive showcase at Everybody’s in Auckland. Attendees were treated to intimate performances from Balu Brigada, Daily J and Juno Is, sharing the incredible local talent lined up for the next three months of the programme.

• After a successful week at Auckland’s Monster Valley, The Art of the Record exhibition is now in the Capital. Displayed at Wellington’s Te Auaha on Dixon Street, the exhibition will be running all week before heading down to the South Island.
  

• The Great Escape festival in the UK has hosted some of New Zealand’s most prominent acts in the past such as The Beths and Leisure, and now in 2021 they’re taking the festival online and continuing to promote some of the great talent from Aotearoa. This year's Kiwi line-up features a wide range of genres including Teeks, Reb Fountain, Purple Pilgrims and Merk. Check it out on Saturday morning, with all details available on the website.

• Launched during the COVID-19 lockdown last year, Spark Sessions has continued to shine a light on Kiwi artists from around the country. On Wednesday May 13th, Spark Sessions returns for NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa with R&B/pop hybrid artist Mikey Dam. Fresh off his latest single ‘Would You’, Dam will be performing via a free livestream on Spark’s Facebook page.
  

• The Project are highlighting up-and-coming Kiwi artists with their ‘On the Rise’ feature each week. Last week they spoke to Mikey Dam about his new single 'Would You,' and what’s up next for him.

ON AIR NEWS:

Kiwi radio stations have continued to go above and beyond for artists and their support forNZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoais a clear reflection of that. Make sure you tune into the newsletter next week for even more radio news!

• Radio Hauraki is highlighting local bands and musicians with their Locals Only Night, where every Monday - Thursday the night show will invite a different artist to join them as a co-host.
  

• GeorgeFM’s Brook Gibson will be running ‘Local Produce’ once a week on his night show, bringing in a new producer every week to play their track and interview them about the tune.
  

• Also on George FM, Sin will be running the Kiwi 3-Way, where she’ll be joined by a Kiwi musician or loyal George FM listener to play their top three local tracks.
  

• The Rock is running the Choice As Kiwi Roadie throughout May. When listeners hear a Kiwi track played on The Rock, they can text in ‘Choice’ to go into the draw to win the ultimate roadie to see their favourite NZ band.
  

• In celebration of NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa, RDU 98.5FM are presenting a special live podcast series called Now That’s What I Call RDU! Recorded live recorded every weekday at 8am, the series aims to delve into the rich history and culture of the Ōtautahi music scene, with each week focusing on a different decade.
  

• Flava is featuring Kiwi artists for their 'A-List' segment, who will highlight five of their favourite songs, complete with personal memories and stories about each track.
  

• Every Monday during May 95bFM: Drive with Jonny & Big Hungry will be joined by a local muso to play one original song and one NZ cover live from the bFM lounge. Check out the just announced whopper line up for their Fancy New Bands show at the end of the month.
  

• If you missed any of the RNZ content last week, you can catch up over at RNZ Music. Highlights include the RNZ Music Live Sessions with Mazbou Q, and the MixTape with Otis Frizzell, one of the featured artists in The Art of the Record exhibition.

KEY EVENTS:

• This weekend, Hamilton will host the inaugural GrrrlFest, a showcase of female and non-gender conforming artists. Starting off on Friday with two cabaret shows, Saturday and Sunday will showcase artists across a range of genres at Nirvana Lounge and Brewaucracy.

• Wellington’s Neptune Collective will be celebrating the opening of Art Jam in collaboration with Newtown Community Hall. Art exhibits, light installation and graffiti showcases will all be on display between 14th - 16th May, with live performances from Soul Drop, Will McClean & The Zooks and Nahbo.

• The Auckland’s Writers Festival will be hosting A Celebration of Song with Marlon Williams, Tom Scott and Reb Fountain. As part of the festival, these artists will share their insights into the songwriting process. Following the panel discussion, the audience will be treated to a very exclusive acoustic performance. Tickets are available here.

• Wellington Museum Sonic Explorers series in the Captain's Cabin continues this Thursday midday with Neil Feather and Rosie Langabeer. This week’s focus will be inverted instruments and accordions, so get down to Wellington Museum to immerse yourself in the world of experimental sound!

• The Rotorua Night Markets are getting in on the action for NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa every Thursday in May, with local performers amongst the delicious food stalls. This Thursday, students of Western Heights High School and Back Porch will be entertaining attendees.

• The ever-so scenic Space Place museum sitting in Wellington’s Botanical Garden continues with their Sunday night sessions this weekend. Paddy Free of iconic New Zealand experimental electronic act Pitch Black will be joined by DJ duo The Audio Mechanics. For just $20, you can get tickets to the Sunday performance here.

• The beautiful Kapiti Coast will be hosting a marathon of local talent at the Tuatara Brewery, with over 40 local acts taking the stage across Saturday and Sunday. Open to all ages, it's a fantastic reason to get out the house this weekend and get amongst some great local talent. Tickets start at just $10 for both days, with tickets available here.

• After rolling out Waiata Anthems last week, TVNZ On Demand have ‘Uke Can Do It’ over on their kids channel HeiHei, taking talented ukulele-wielding kids and pairing them with iconic New Zealand music icons such as Six60, Troy Kingi and Jamie McDell. Catch the full season now over at TVNZ On Demand.

• The Invercargill Repertory Society will be presenting Pictures In Her Head, a celebration of female songwriters and composers this Saturday, celebrating wāhine from all different backgrounds. Tickets are still available for this intimate evening.

• The New Zealand Children’s Music Awards is happening this Sunday at Auckland’s Tuning Fork. Hosted by iconic kiwi personality Suzy Cato, the awards will reward those musicians who produce for our future generations. Check out all of the finalists here.

• Crumb Café in Grey Lynn, Auckland, are hosting a pop up shop for merchandise from artists all over Aotearoa with t-shirts, totes, socks and more. You can find out more about what is available here, with 100% of the sale price going directly to the artists.

• JBHiFi have partnered with NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa to stock the ‘Collector’ tee from the official NZMM 2021 merchandise line, with proceeds from sales going to MusicHelps. The design features drawings of ten different NZ musical instruments designed and made in New Zealand. If you’d like to know more about these pieces of NZ music history, you can read about them in the brand-new edition of NZ Musician magazine, out this week.

KEY RELEASES

• And That released their new single I Am The Mirror last week, which is the perfect tune to pretend it’s still summer. Scott Clearly of And That spoke to Euphoriazine about the song: “The core of the song is about how I feel like a lot of people in my life look to me to be the light (the candle) when in reality I feel more like the mirror.”

• Mara TK – the former frontman for Electric Wire Hustle – has released his debut album Bad Meditation. The golden-voiced singer of the Kiwi future soul has his first solo release available digitally now and on vinyl soon, courtesy of Tom Scott’s Years Gone By Records.

• The late Malcolm Black’s family have released his posthumous album Songs for the Family. “Our family are very excited to finally be able to share Malcolm’s musings on life, love and death,” says his wife Julia. All proceeds from the sales of Songs for the Family will go to the University of Otago’s Centre for Translational Cancer Research.

• PollyHill aka Paloma Schneidman has shared her new track ‘Chilly’ about the culture of cool. As a director and film nerd herself, PollyHill uses ‘Chilly’ to drive home the truth that it’s actually cool to be your weird little self.
  

• Northland-based singer-songwriter Tazman Jack released his debut album Eyes Closed last Friday, with songs about love, life, mental health and more. “With the entire album project, I wanted to make songs that express or show that things can be more than what they seem — just looking at the surface doesn’t give you the full picture,” says Taz (Ngāpuhi and Te Roroa).

• The Two Daze compilation is back for 2021, featuring tracks by 15 local artists that were all strictly written and recorded in two days. With tracks by Kraus, Lévyne, Van Staden & Böhm, PARK RD, T.G. Shand, Lucky Boy, Richard Dada (of Glass Vaults). Grab a copy of the compilation over at Bandcamp.

 
KEY TOURS
 
Just like last week, there’s a huge range of tours planned for the next seven days, with something for everyone’s tastes. Auckland indie rockers Mini Simmons kick off their nationwide tour this week, while Dianne Swann is taking her debut solo album on the road from this weekend. Miles Calder continues his tour this week, and Nadia Reid and her band take the stage in Hastings to kick off theirs. Check out the full range of tours and gigs happening around the country here.

https://www.nzmusicmonth.co.nz/
#nzmusicmonth
#nzmm2021

AUCKLAND MC AND RAPPER POLLYHILL NAMED AS LIVE NATION & VODAFONE’S MAY ONES TO WATCH ARTIST

Auckland MC and rapper PollyHill has been announced as Live Nation and Vodafone New Zealand’s May artist for the ONES TO WATCH programme, joining a growing slate of local musicians who have been recognised for their exceptional talent.

Originally from the small beach town of Omaha, PollyHill is bending genres and making dynamic and experimental rap and hip-hop. Now based in Auckland, she’s described as a “jack of all trades”, mixing her love for music and film together to create music that takes you on an audible journey.

While working in retail, PollyHill and her colleagues would spend the quieter hours making beats while Polly rapped along. The hobby turned into a potential career when she started uploading her tracks online, quickly picking up attention from listeners and becoming a fan favourite of student radio stations.

Before Polly started releasing music, she worked in the film industry, even picking up a nomination at the New Zealand International Film Festival for her short films; she now blends her love of music and film when directing her own music videos. Her debut single Spooky highlights her fresh take on rap and hip-hop, with the accompanying music video, directed by Polly herself, highlighting her talent behind the camera. She’s also extended her music video directing skills to other Kiwi artists, including fellow rapper JessB.

PollyHill is set to turn heads this year after a massive 2020, kicking it off by opening for a personal inspiration of hers, New York MC Wiki. In May 2020, she released her EP Greatest Hits, before rounding out the year by performing at a slate of summer festivals including Rhythm and Vines, Soundsplash, Outfields and Splore. Polly plans to release her follow up project to Greatest Hits in 2021, which will be predominantly produced by herself.

Click here to find out more about PollyHill

Commenting on the rising star, Live Nation promotor Renée Hermsen says: “Tāmaki Makaurau's PollyHill is paving her own path between hip-hop, spoken word and experimental beat making, overlaid with her knife sharp and honest storytelling. She’s one to watch for sure, as she rises from the underground.”

PollyHill joins a quickly growing group of New Zealand artists recognised in the ONES TO WATCH programme, sitting alongside There’s a Tuesday, Muroki, Paige, Park Rd and more. Launched in 2017 in the United States, ONES TO WATCH has helped boost the careers of artists now reaching global stages, including Halsey and Dua Lipa.

Vodafone’s David Redmore said, “Vodafone is incredibly proud of our partnership with Live Nation and the Ones to Watch showcase of awesome emerging talent. Corporate support is a vital part of the music ecosystem in Aotearoa and that support helps make it work for the artists and promoters - and it also helps that we are big music fans as well!”

After launching an exclusive long-term partnership in 2019, Live Nation Australasia and Vodafone New Zealand have provided Vodafone customers access to Live Nation’s entertainment portfolio including music, family and comedy tours and festivals across the country. The strategic multi-year partnership is committed to bringing the best live experiences to New Zealand and the best New Zealand artists to the world. The unique emerging talent platform of ONES TO WATCH builds on this strong partnership and a mutual dedication to support grassroots initiatives.

As well as access to the online platform, Vodafone customers will be given the chance to win tickets to the ONES TO WATCH invitation-only quarterly showcase events. More info and competition details available at: vodafonerewards.co.nz.

WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA

POLLYHILL INSTAGRAM
ONES TO WATCH FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER

NZ MUSIC T-SHIRT DAY BACK IN 2021 TO SUPPORT MUSICHELPS

NZ Music T-Shirt Day returns this May to close NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa with a nationwide celebration of local music and how it can make a positive difference in our lives. NZ Music T-Shirt Day aims to raise funds for MusicHelps, a charity launched to assist those working in the music industry in Aotearoa and those who use music to help the most vulnerable in our communities through projects that use the power of music to help and heal. The foundation aids everyone in the industry, from the musicians to crew and everyone in between, who work tirelessly to bring Kiwis the music they love. This year, NZ Music T-Shirt Day is taking place on Friday 28th May, with Kiwis encouraged to don their favourite Kiwi band or artist t-shirt and make a donation to support the cause.

NZ Music T-Shirt Day was launched in 2019 around the New Zealand Vodafone Music Awards, and was brought forward to May in 2020 to support those impacted by the loss of touring due to Covid-19. Thanks to last year’s event, thousands of dollars were raised to aid those who lost their incomes due to the inability to work during the pandemic. Now that local touring is back in New Zealand, this year’s funds will primarily go towards funding mental health facilities for those in the industry and supporting community based projects.

On last year’s impactful fundraiser, P Digsss of Shapeshifter: “Covid-19 really hit all areas of the live music industry hard. No shows, no work. Through their wellbeing and grants programmes, MusicHelps was a lifeline for many in the industry. NZ Music T-Shirt Day is a great way for everyone to not only show their support of music in Aotearoa, but also the work MusicHelps does.”

This May, Kiwis are encouraged to dig out their favourite NZ music t-shirt and support the cause by texting MUSIC to 2448 to make a $3 donation to the MusicHelps fundraiser. Urge others around you to support by rallying a team in your workplace, school, whānau or friends! Share the love on your social networks and your followers will be able to donate to your team, potentially earning you a place on the Honour Roll. Find out more about creating a team over on the NZ Music T-Shirt Day website.

One of the many artists affected in Aotearoa due to Covid-19 was Fran Kora, from much-loved Kiwi band Kora, who commented: “In the live music industry, gigs are the rewana and butter for everyone involved. No gigs! No money! Everyone loses! As Covid-19 shocked the world, musicians, crew, venues, agents, festivals, and a whole lot of people that work in the live music industry were immediately affected. Thankfully, MusicHelps has been supporting those affected both mentally and financially through Covid-19 and continue to do charge on. So on May 28th, we want you to wear your Music T-shirt and donate to a great cause.”

Don’t have a Kiwi band shirt at the ready? Check out the incredible array of local artists selling merchandise here: https://www.nzmusictshirtday.org.nz/t-shirts-and-merchandise

Check out the NZ Music T-Shirt Day website here.
@musichelpsnz
#nzmusictshirtday

NEW ZEALAND MUSIC MONTH | TE MARAMA PUORO O AOTEAROA

Nau mai, haere mai. Welcome to the first weekly e-newsletter for New Zealand Music Month 2021 | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa. NZ Music Month launched with a bang on Saturday, May 1st, with a number of tours, releases, media appearances, events and more. The theme for this year is Access All Aotearoa - celebrating local music for all New Zealanders, in every place, for every age, and in every genre.
 
These weekly e-newsletters will showcase the great activity planned across Aotearoa throughout May, with a huge number of events taking place from the top of the country to the bottom. We’d love to hear from you with any suggested newsletter inclusions, interview requests or further information, so please do get in touch.
 
KEY NEWS:

• Commemorate NZ Music Month 2021 | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa by picking up a shirt, with a brand new design available in white, alongside the classic black and orange tees. All shirts are available from the August Avenue website and the collector's edition tees are on sale at JB HiFi. All proceeds from shirt sales go towards MusicHelps, a charity aiding local musicians and crew in Aotearoa.

• Christchurch indie-folk darlings There’s A Tuesday kicked off NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa on Friday when they joined John Campbell on TVNZ Breakfast. Performing Dandelions off their debut EP Dance With Me Before We Cry, There’s A Tuesday emerged from the Smokefree Rockquest and are a perfect example that success can be found in high school competitions. You can catch the feature here.

• TVNZ OnDemand have premiered their 2021 installment of Waiata Anthems with all episodes viewable online. This brand new series features MELODOWNZ, Drax Project, Logan Bell (Katchafire), Bic Runga, Annie Crummer, Hollie Smith and Don McGlashan translating some of their biggest tracks into te reo Māori. Check out all seven episodes on TVNZ On Demand now.

• Pop-darling Benee has announced a quartet of shows with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) in Wellington and the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO) in Auckland. Accompanied by a 66-piece orchestra in each city, Benee is set to deliver her chart-topping hits including Glitter and Supalonely to an audience, putting a classical spin on her widely-known discography.

• Qobuz, the recently launched high resolution music streaming and downloading platform, has teamed up with RNZ’s Charlotte Ryan to produce a special NZ Music Month playlist. Hosted on Qobuz’s homepage for the month of May, the playlist shines a light on Kiwi artists - both established and emerging.
  

• The New Zealand Film Commission have a fantastic range of Kiwi music documentaries and films available to stream or buy through their On Demand platform. Titles include Herbs - Songs of Freedom, The Chills: The Triumphs and Tragedy of Martin Phillipps, Shihad: Beautiful Machine, Daffodils and many more.

KEY EVENTS:

• After making history with Eden Park’s first ever concert with over 50,000 in attendance, Six60 are presenting their documentary ‘Till The Lights Go Out’ with a free screening in Auckland’s Aotea Square this Thursday 6th May.

• The Art of the Record exhibition is showing this week at Auckland’s Monster Valley. Curated by the New Zealand Music Commission, the exhibition features album artwork from the last 21 years, including Fat Freddy’s Drop, Lawrence Arabia and Fur Patrol gracing the walls. It’s free for all, so head along and check it out in Auckland until Saturday, before the exhibition hits the road to Wellington.

• Live Nation & Vodafone’s Ones to Watch programme is showcasing three up-and-coming artists tomorrow evening, Wednesday 5th May, at Everybody’s, with performances from Juno Is, Daily J and a mystery guest. The Ones to Watch programme highlights rising musicians from Aotearoa to help boost their careers, with international alumni including Dua Lipa and Halsey.

• YAMI Sound Summit is back in Wanaka for its 6th year. This upcoming weekend industry professionals from around the country will be giving lectures and workshops on everything from DJing, songwriting and how to make money from your music. It's sure to be a jam-packed weekend of insight and knowledge, and will be rounded off by performances from Troy Kingi and PDigsss.

• Toitu Otago Settlers Museum will be commencing their lunchtime concert series with Tall Folk this Saturday 8th May at midday. Carrying on throughout the month, schedule this series into your Saturday plans down in the south.

• Auckland City of Music are creating a buzz in the heart of Auckland’s CBD by taking over the See.Do.Auckland space at Britomart Station. Everything from a NZ music merch store to a historical walking tour of Auckland’s most iconic venues will be going down at Britomart through May. Head down on Wednesdays for a singalong to celebrate Waiata Anthems alongside Māori cultural rōpū Hiwa, hear SUSO Emerging Artists sweetening up the sounds for rush hours mid-week, and catch Auckland’s student radio station 95bFM DJs behind the decks every Thursday – and so much more!

• The Phoenix Summit has quickly become a staple for sharing knowledge and inspiration amongst creatives down at Wynyard Pavilion. This Wednesday 5th May, the Phoenix Summit will be presenting their special NZ Music Month edition of the series, featuring award-winning designer Ben Dalgelish, who has produced shows for Travis Scott and Post Malone, and in 2019 was awarded the Knight of Illumination award for his work on the latter. Also speaking is Cary Caldwell, who spent 17 years at SXSW before returning to Christchurch to take helm of 212 Music Group. Now he’s in the midst of working on multiple South Island tours and you can hear about all the nitty gritty of what goes into touring and staging international events. A bonus live performance will be fronted by Cassie Henderson who released her single Burns Brighter in December.

• Wellington Museum is unveiling their new Sonic Explorers series in the Captain's Cabin. Taking audiences into the world of experimental soundscapes, each Thursday in May a new duo will show off their craftsmanship, starting with Ruby Solly and Allistair Fraser.

• Sitting atop Wellington’s botanical garden is the Space Place museum, educating all on our stars and solar systems. The team at Space Place have hand-picked musicians to perform every Sunday for this one-off unique experience. The festivities will be starting May 9th, headlined by Trinity Root’s founder Riki Gooch. Book your tickets here for this magical experience.

• The Independent Music NZ Going Local seminar series starts this week in Invercargill, Dunedin and Christchurch. The yearly series sees speakers from IMNZ, APRA AMCOS , NZ Music Commission, NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, and many more to give their insight on how to navigate the industry. Although the Christchurch event is sold out, get in quick for the Invercargill and Dunedin dates.

KEY RELEASES:

• Harper Finn celebrated NZ Music Month early with the release of She Said last Friday. Just in time for his tour with fellow Auckland pop acts LA Women, She Said is a pop ballad crafted of elegant melodies with Finn’s incredible vocals. Coming hot off his breakout single Dance Away These Days, Finn is rising quickly through the ranks as one of pop's most prominent names in Aotearoa.

• Mazbou Q (fka Unchained XL) has a huge Friday in store for us with a two-part track and his headline show at Auckland’s Neck of the Woods. Drawing influences from his heavy metal past, Nigerian roots and hip-hop knowledge, Mazbou Q has constantly been one of Auckland’s exciting acts to watch. Describing the forthcoming track as “a powerful story, one that I hope will inspire Black and Indigenous communities to keep pushing against all odds”. Pre-save the track here before grabbing tickets to his show here.
  

• Musician and songwriter Amamelia has released her new project WOW! THE 2021 REMIXES with a huge line-up of collaborators including Imugi 이무기, Tei., bb gurl, Dbldbl, and Alexa Casino. Check it out on all major streaming services and read more about it here.

• At only 24 years old, Lontalius released his third album Someone Will Be There For You this past Friday. Completely produced by the incredibly talented singer, he describes the album as “the product of coming home from LA and growing up a little, it feels like a turning point of sorts.” Recorded at Auckland’s iconic Stebbings Recording Centre, Someone Will Be There For You is out now on all major streaming services.

• Iconic DnB outfit Shapeshifter dropped their brand new singles Roxxy and Ritual on Friday, in preparation for their seventh studio album Rituals, set to be released in July. In addition to the two singles, Shapeshifter have also announced two shows in Auckland and Christchurch.

• Emily Rice has been making music for years now, constantly experimenting and moving within genres. Originally starting in a folk duo, Rice has now moved onto new beginnings. Lead single Red and Blue was a jazz infused pop track written in last year's lockdown. Now Rice has her third EP AUAHA releasing this Friday with tracks she describes as a mix of chill DnB, R&B and pop. Pre-save the extensive project here.

• Seven-piece reggae band Tomorrow People have been blessing us with constant grooves for over a decade, and this Friday they add to their extensive catalogue with Don’t Worry Baby.
  

• While Meg Theron is relatively new to the local music scene, she’s been turning heads with her ability to blend the pop prowess of songwriting with trap infused hip-hop beats. On Friday, Theron completes her hat-trick of singles for 2021 with Anyone, after previously releasing Self-Care and Stargazing. Pre-save the track for Friday morning here.
  

TOURS:
 
Live music is back with a vengeance in 2021, with a whopping line-up of tours this May, with something for everyone to enjoy. From old favourites back on the road to up-and-coming Kiwi artists embarking on some of their first shows, New Zealand has it all this May.
 
For the hip-hop fans, Team Dynamite are closing out their nationwide tour this Thursday evening, meanwhile Harper Finn and LA Women kick off their tour in Christchurch and Dunedin this week. Iconic Dunedin-sound band The Chills visit multiple towns this week in preparation for their imminent album Scatterbrain. Marlon Williams rounds out his 27-date nationwide tour with an encore show at Christchurch’s Isaac Royal Theatre, while fans of Aotearoa’s classic reggae sound will enjoy Kiwi Grooves featuring Annie Crummer, Che Fu, Ardijah and more in Rotorua and Palmerston North this week.
 
Heading out to a gig this week is the perfect way to mark the first week of NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro O Aotearoa. Click here to see the full list of shows happening around the country this week, with hundreds of shows listed throughout the month.

TIM MINCHIN - 'BACK' IN 2021!

Internationally renowned, award-winning musician, comedian, actor, writer and composer, TIM MINCHIN has confirmed he will return to New Zealand for the encore return of BACK – playing Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch this June.
 
My Live Nation members can be among the first to secure tickets during the pre-sale period starting 12pm, Tuesday 27th April.
 
Tickets for all shows go on sale at 1pm on Thursday 29th April.
 
Playing sold out shows across NZ in 2019, BACK is billed as “Old Songs, New Songs, F*** You Songs”, hinting at a set list of material from all corners of Minchin’s eclectic – and often iconoclastic – repertoire. Minchin has been celebrated globally for writing the music and lyrics for “Matilda the Musical”, which has gone on to become one of the most acclaimed musicals of the last 20 years, winning a record 7 Olivier Awards, 13 Helpmann Awards and 5 Tony Awards. It continues to run in the West End and has already played in over 50 cities worldwide.
 
He also wrote music and lyrics for the musical adaption of “Groundhog Day”, which after an acclaimed limited run at The Old Vic in London in 2016, debuted on Broadway in April 2017 and won the Olivier Award for Best Musical in 2017.
 
In 2019/20 Minchin wrote, produced and starred in the Sky Atlantic / Foxtel TV series, Upright. Other screen-acting credits include Atticus Fetch in Season 6 of Californication, a Logie Award-winning Smasher Sullivan in the ABC’s Secret River, and Friar Tuck in Lionsgate’s Robin Hood reboot. Stage highlights include Judas in the UK / Australian Arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2012, and Rosencrantz in the Sydney Theatre Company's Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead the following year. He has published two books: the graphic novel, Storm, and the illustrated childrens’ book, When I Grow Up.
 
In November 2020, Tim debuted his solo album “Apart Together” at #3 in the ARIA charts. On the eve of the release Tim and his band streamed a live performance of the full album to a worldwide audience for 48 hours to critical acclaim.

TIM MINCHIN – BACK – NEW ZEALAND 2021

MICHAEL FOWLER CENTRE, WELLINGTON THURS 17TH JUNE
CIVIC THEATRE, AUCKLAND SATURDAY 19TH JUNE
TOWN HALL, CHRISTCHURCH FRIDAY 25TH JUNE

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: timminchin.com & livenation.com.au

NZ MUSIC MONTH 2021: ACCESS ALL AOTEAROA - CELEBRATING LOCAL MUSIC IN EVERY PLACE, FOR EVERY AGE & EVERY GENRE

Aotearoa’s iconic NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa kicks off on May 1st, celebrating great local music for all New Zealanders - in every place, for every age, and in every genre. The month of May will see a host of celebrations, new releases, artist tours and special events happening across Aotearoa.
 
NZ Music Month’s Rodney Fisher commented: “With a focus on bringing great music from Aotearoa to all New Zealanders, we look forward to highlighting stories from across the country, along with the reminder to support our musicians by getting out and catching live gigs, streaming local, following local acts online, and buying local music and merch.”
 
To mark 21 years of NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa, the NZ Music Commission are proud to present Art of the Record, a travelling exhibition to showcase 21 iconic album covers. The exhibition will open in Auckland on May 1st, before travelling to Wellington for May 10th, followed Christchurch on May 17th and Dunedin on May 24th.
 
Art of the Record’s curator Willa Cameron from NZ Music Month commented: “We’ve compiled a beautiful collection of artworks across various musical genres, including Fat Freddy’s Drop’s Boondigga from Otis Frizzell, and The Mint Chicks’ Crazy? Yes! Dumb? No! from Ruban Nielson. We think there’s something for everyone in our collection of 21 pieces.”
 
NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa will see a stellar line-up of local acts performing right across Aotearoa, with shows happening in a vast range of venues and regions. Confirmed tours include The Chills, The Veils, Nadia Reid and her band, Miles Calder, and Harper Finn & LA Women.
 
A bumper edition of the Music Commission’s Musicians Mentoring in Schools Programme will run throughout the month, with musicians working in classrooms nationwide. There are over 50 school visits planned across Gisborne, Hastings, Ōtaki, Lower Hutt, Christchurch, Invercargill and more, with the artists involved including Annie Crummer, Joel Shadbolt, Bella Kalolo and Louis Baker.
 
There will be events in all kinds of public spaces throughout the month, including a huge performance programme rolling out across the sites of Museums Wellington, both in the Space Place at the Carter Observatory and the Wellington Museum. The Christchurch Art Gallery is holding a launch concert on 1st May with an all Ōtautahi line-up, while the Lake Wanaka Centre is hosting the YAMI SouNZ Summit, with two days of workshops and concerts featuring Troy Kingi, Delaney Davidson and P.Diggsss of Shapeshifter. Dunedin will have the annual Nook & Cranny Festival at the Public Library, along with a lunchtime concert series each Saturday in May at Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, and Auckland Live will host activations in Britomart and Aotea Square – stay tuned for more news.
 
A follow up to the original Waiata/Anthems album released in 2019, the Waiata Anthems series will celebrate some of our most loved Kiwi artists, including Che Fu, Bic Runga, Katchafire, Hollie Smith & Don McGlashan and more. Highlighting personal stories from the artists and their connections to Te Ao Māori and Aotearoa, each episode will see the artist either record a brand-new track, or re-record one of their biggest hits in te reo Māori, before treating audiences to a live performance of their waiata. Produced by Hinewehi Mohi and directed by Julia Parnell, Waiata Anthems will air exclusively on TVNZ On Demand from May 1st.
 
This year’s NZ Music Month Summit will return on Saturday, 29th May, with discussions from Kiwi artists and music industry professionals on topics including working with international stars and touring in Aotearoa. The Summit will take place in Auckland and be streamed online, with a focus on accessibility and support for local musicians and others in the industry. 100% of ticket sale income will go to MusicHelps, to help them continue their incredible efforts in providing help to those who need it.
 
For those keen to enjoy NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa from the comfort of home, NZ Film On Demand will be streaming a collection of Kiwi music films, from Herbs: Songs of Freedom and Daffodils, to POI E: The Story of Our Song and Shihad: Beautiful Machine.
 
NZ Music T-Shirt Day returns on Friday May 28th, with Kiwis encouraged to wear their favourite NZ music t-shirt and donate to the MusicHelps Live appeal, where the charity is providing vital support to Kiwi musicians affected by COVID-19. New Zealanders can text MUSIC to 2448 to donate $3.
 
NZ Music Month is run by the NZ Music Commission, with support from APRA AMCOS, Independent Music NZ, the Music Managers Forum, NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, SOUNZ and Te Māngai Pāho. The purpose of NZ Music Month to celebrate music from New Zealand, and the people who make it.

NZ Music Month is Access All Aotearoa: Great local music for all New Zealanders – in every place, for every age & in every genre.