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.
THE LAST SPLORE - END OF AN ERA
In a statement issued today, Splore Festival’s long-time owner, John Minty, has decided Splore 2026 will be the last, due to lower than hoped for ticket sales.
Minty says “I have been involved with Splore at Tāpapakanga for 20 years and I feel now is a time to move on. I am incredibly proud of all that the festival has achieved and the devoted crew and Splorers who have created such magic and community over that period. However, it’s becoming more difficult to sustain a festival of Splore’s quality and depth so rather than diluting it I’d rather it finish with a bang”.
He says after 18 years of financial viability the festival hit headwinds with costly Covid postponements and cancellations and the cost of living crisis which led, for the first time, to low ticket sales for the 2024 event.
“We took a rest last summer hoping things would pick up for the 2026 event but so far that hasn’t happened to the degree that we wanted”.
A hoped for lifeline from the Government’s $70 million Event Boost Fund was not forthcoming despite a comprehensive and what he thought was a very persuasive application.
Splore is an independent, Aotearoa-owned and is meticulously curated by artists, thinkers and creatures of the night. Supporting independent culture is an act of community care, says Minty, a choice to uplift the real human-scale experiences in an age of corporate mega-festivals and supermarket-brand entertainment. Debuting in Kariotahi in 1998, Splore has been Aotearoa’s longest running music and arts camping festival.
Splore 2026 features its usual over-the-top, eclectic, original and diverse programme of music, art, performance, wellness and family activities. The music programme includes Sister Nancy, Nightmares on Wax, Mind Enterprises, General Levy, Tami Neilson, Miss Kaninna, Parson James, Illustrious Blacks, Beatles Dub Club, Coco Solid, Christoph El Truento, Te KuraHuia, Romi Wrights, Jess B, Franca, Dick Move, Estere, Half Queen and many more.
Last week’s Performance and Wellbeing announcement outlined the eclectic 2026 performance, cabaret and wellbeing programme, the much-loved Lucky Star coffee cart turned entertainment extravaganza, a new creative collaboration with Auckland Pride and a sneak peek at some of the artists shaping today’s visual culture in the soon-to-be-announced visual arts programme. Extended information about this year’s 160+ strong lineup can be found here.
The ever popular Lucky Star zone will be back exclusively at Splore with a huge line up that almost qualifies as a festival in its own right, featuring Dylan C, Patsy Skeet, Sanoi, Mermaid Bait, Zuke, Nikita Tu-Bryant and many more.
Also back is a comprehensive Wellness Programme featuring yoga and meditation, special screenings of the ‘Three Days in February’ film by Serena Stevenson and a chill music ‘After Dark’ programme.
Splore’s ever-popular cabaret show moves to Main Stage, featuring Chris Oh, House of Coven as well as roving performers popping up all around the park. A children's programme is also featured.
In its time running, Splore has been more than a festival - it has been a living, breathing playground for self-expression, a place where music, art and nature collided to create moments of pure freedom and connection. It has always stood for authenticity, inviting people to show up exactly as they are, to dance barefoot, to discover new sounds, and to find kinship among like-minded souls. As this chapter comes to a close, the spirit of Splore lives on in every shared sunrise, every painted body, and every beat that brought us together.
“So for all Splorers out there let’s make this 2026 event a beautiful, farewell celebration party on the beach” - John Minty, Splore Festival Director.
Photo: Splore’s Festival Director John Minty and Brazilian DJ Luísa Viscardi
SPLORE FESTIVAL 2026
February 20-22 2026, Tāpapakanga Regional Park
INTERNATIONAL GUESTS
Röyksopp (dj set) (NO) || Sister Nancy (JM) + Legal Shot (FR) || Nightmares on Wax (UK) || General Levy (UK) + Joe Ariwa (UK) || Mind Enterprises (ITA) || Parson James (USA) || Miss Kaninna (AU) || C.Frim (AU) || Illustrious Blacks (USA) || Beatles Dub Club (UK) || Franca (DE)
LOCAL LIVE & DJS
Tami Neilson || Coco Solid || Jess B || Christoph El Truento (live) || Estère || Dick Move || Romi Wrights || Te KuraHuia || Benny Salvador || Chiccoreli + Tali || DylanBiscuit b2b ajhoneysuckle || BBYFACEKILLA b2b Snakelegs || GoldTooth || Half Queen || ilish || Kaiviti || Marjorie Sinclair || NymphLoads || ORIKoL || Vercetti || WAEWAEXPRESS || Arcadia || Love Language || Hudge || Bobby Brazuka || Dastardly Bounder || DJ Banty || Rose Alice
PERFORMANCE + CABARET
Chris Oh! || The Butterfly Who Flew Into The Rave || House of Coven || Oblivion Westwood || The Conservatory || Chemistry Roller Crew || Tyler Nacho || Blip The Siren || Cirque du Solittle || Flame Entertainment || Fraser Hooper || Free Hugs || Kayla Paige || Letitia Lickkit || The Dynamic Duo || The Paul Klaass Street Show || The Snacrobats
THE LUCKY STAR PRESENTS
AlleyKat || ASHEZ || Barn Dance with a Twist || Benthamism || Breath Wright || Ceci Leemeco || Conrad Coom ||
Culture Embassy || Darcy & Daisy Lammington || Dylan C || Harry Charles || JJ’s Reggae Bingo || Libby K || Lord Woo || Loop Electronica Sessions || Lucky Star All Stars Band || Mamadafunk || Matt Rapid & Elise Adlam || Mermaid Bait || Mix n Match || Mozzarella Cheese Making Rave || msjos || Narzys Birdie Bonanza || Nikita 雅涵 Tu-Bryant ||
Patsy Skeet || Pretty Fly & A White Guy || Princess Room || Queen B & The Nobles || Ravensdaughter || Rock N Roll Alley || Sanoi || Sister Act || Stevie T || Take ‘Em To Church || The Fantastic Mr Penguin || The Huneybee Wild || The Mara || Tommy and The Woo || Tysonidero || Zuke
WENDY’S WELLNESS
FACILITATORS: Amanda Wright || Chardin || Christine Spicer || Claire Conza || Franki Cole || Joanna Walden || Julia Vajda de Albuquerque || Katie Greengrass || Kiri Walden || Lauren Filer || Loren Honey || Louise Mills || Maryam Al-Roubaiai || Maya Nova || Meg Bell || Raquel Minh || Sarah Spence || Summer Knight || Tor White ||
Taane Mete + Jock Barnes Graham || Tracey Bennett || Zoe Kee-Sue
PRACTITIONERS: Christopher Jones || Jackie Segers || James Hancox || Kimberly Mabbett || Lana Raill || Laura Jean || Phoebe Hart || Rā Balderas
AFTER DARK: Chloe Palmer || Deep Dive || Love Language || Misled Convoy || Nikita 雅涵 Tu-Bryant || Three Days In February || Toroa || Xuno’s Conscious Audio Creations
WELLNESS POP-UP: Em Wafer || Kayla Gordine || Serena Stevenson
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW
FOLLOW SPLORE
WEB | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK
THE SHAPESHIFTING SOUND OF PAN AMSTERDAM HITS TĀMAKI MAKAURAU
Presented by The Tuning Fork, Pan Amsterdam, a musical enigma wrapped in an enduring riddle, comes to Tāmaki Makaurau for a one-night only on January 25. His creator is a jazz musician from Houston who’s found fame working with Detroit punk rock God, Iggy Pop, and British indie royalty, Metronomy, and now makes shapeshifting, adventurous hip hop out of the music’s spiritual home, New York.
Pan Amsterdam and his creator Leron Thomas’ creative endeavours have been touched by music’s rare capacity to connect kindred spirits. Over the years, he’s rubbed shoulders with an early incarnation of Destiny’s Child (as a child he won a talent competition in Houston alongside Beyonce and co, and even attended the same Performing Arts school), played with jazz great such as Robert Glasper, Charles Tolliver and Roy Hargrove, and performed with hip hop/neo-soul luminaries such as Kanye West, Lauryn Hill, Bilal, Erykah Badu and Mos Def.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: tuningfork.co.nz
PAN AMSTERDAM
THE TUNING FORK
AUCKLAND
25 JANUARY
TICKETS ON SALE FROM WEDNESDAY 17 DECEMBER, 9AM
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: tuningfork.co.nz
About Pan Amsterdam
Pan Amsterdam is a musical enigma wrapped in an enduring riddle. His creator is a jazz musician from Houston who’s found fame working with Detroit punk rock God, Iggy Pop, and British indie royalty, Metronomy, and now makes shapeshifting, adventurous hip hop out of the music’s spiritual home, New York. He’s an irreverent character born out of frustration and named after a misunderstanding, yet one who’s on the verge of releasing his fourth album of truth-slaying, genre-crossing rhymes and beats. So, who is Pan Amsterdam? Everything you want him to be. And more besides.
Pan Amsterdam and his creator Leron Thomas’ creative endeavours have been touched by music’s rare capacity to connect kindred spirits. Over the years, he’s rubbed shoulders with an early incarnation of Destiny’s Child (as a child he won a talent competition in Houston alongside Beyonce and co, and even attended the same Performing Arts school), played with jazz great such as Robert Glasper, Charles Tolliver and Roy Hargrove, and performed with hip hop/neo-soul luminaries such as Kanye West, Lauryn Hill, Bilal, Erykah Badu and Mos Def.
NEW ZEALAND’S BIGGEST BAND ARE BACK WITH THEIR LATEST SINGLE ‘WE MADE IT’ - OUT ON 12 DECEMBER 2025
SIX60 announce the release of their latest single, “We Made It”, out today Friday 12 December 2025. “We Made It” channels SIX60’s signature fusion of pop and reggae — the sound of summer and true roots music.
The track celebrates gratitude, growth, and taking a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come. Whether it’s a major milestone or just the feeling of hitting Friday and heading for the beach, “We Made It” captures that universal sense of celebration.
As the year wraps and a new one begins, this song delivers the uplifting message listeners are looking for: We made it. We celebrate life. And we keep moving forward.
SIX60 has recently performed on 11 December 2025 in the heart of Sydney Harbour as part of the ‘On The Steps’ series. They will bring the same show that has sold out world-famous venues and helped them become New Zealand's first true ‘stadium band’. This show will treat audiences to the band’s beloved classics, along with brand-new music live from their new album before its release.
“We Made It” is available now STREAM/LISTEN HERE
Images and Media assets here
For more information please contact:
Bex Martelletti // 818
bex@818.co.nz
+64 27 528 6839
ARTIST BIO
From humble beginnings in a student flat in Dunedin to becoming the highest-selling live band in New Zealand history, SIX60’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for their electrifying live shows, the band has sold out iconic venues including Eden Park, Western Springs, the Hordern Pavilion, Riverstage, and even a memorable halftime show at a sold-out Accor Stadium for the State of Origin in 2023 — cementing their reputation as a once-in-a-generation live phenomenon.
Their success extends far beyond the stage. In 2025, the Aotearoa Music Awards named SIX60 the country’s first-ever Chart Icon, recognising a record-breaking career that includes more than 1,200 weeks on the New Zealand music charts, four #1 albums, and 48 platinum-certified singles.
With the recent completion of their fifth studio album, SIX60 continues to evolve while staying true to their roots — inspiring fans around the world and shaping the future sound of Aotearoa/New Zealand.
SPLORE FESTIVAL SHARES PERFORMANCE AND WELLBEING OFFERINGS FOR 2026
New Zealand’s most loved independent music and arts festival, Splore, returns to Tāpapakanga Regional Park from 20–22 February 2026 for its 20th year at the stunning beachside location. Today Splore reveals its eclectic 2026 performance, cabaret and wellbeing programme, confirms the much-loved Lucky Star coffee cart turned entertainment extravaganza is back, announces a new creative collaboration with Auckland Pride and drops a sneak peek at some of the artists shaping today’s visual culture in the soon-to-be-announced visual arts programme.
These sit alongside the already announced, scene-defining music line-up, expertly co-curated by Shaquille Wasasala (Half Queen) and long-time Splore director John Minty. Across six stages, stellar international and Aotearoa artists will bring cutting-edge sounds and future cult favourites to one of the most beautiful festival sites in the world.
Now more than 25 years in, Splore has carved out its place as a fiercely independent cultural beacon for Tāmaki Makaurau. The festival’s world-building goes far beyond the music, with exquisite art installations, eclectic performance and cabaret, spaces for wellness and self-expression, and room for the whole whānau, kids included, to plug into the magic. Inclusive and carefully curated, Splore is an arcadian utopia, a candy store of experiences and discoveries for the curious and open-minded.
The Performing Arts programme for 2026 brings home a wave of world class Kiwi talent who have been winning awards and hearts overseas. Chris Oh!, phenomenal Boylesque superstar and bonafide Splore icon, will tear up Main Stage, then teach a free Saturday workshop for anyone keen to learn his sexy, sassy moves. The Butterfly who Flew into the Rave lands with the full-force choreography that powered an eighteen month international tour. Much loved clown Fraser Hooper returns after a huge year in Europe. Rock ’n’ roll street-show legend Paul Klaass, one of Aotearoa’s most charismatic carneys, comes back fresh from London and Edinburgh seasons. Aerial star Oblivion Westwoodcontinues her wild rise above it all.
This year, Splore’s iconic cabaret steps out of the Naked Eye Stage and storms Main Stage for a bold Saturday night takeover. Festival Director John Minty’s decision to hand cabaret a prime slot shows just how central performance is to Splore’s DNA. Long-time cabaret writer and Splore performance director Emma Herbert Vickers delivers M O R T A L Fever Dream, a one-off show created just for Splore and choreographed with World of WearableArt’s Kayla Paige. Auckland Fashion Week darlings and ballroom icons House of Coven bring runway drama and ballroom flair. Tāmaki Makaurau’s sharpest parkour acrobats and dancers from The Conservatory Studios will be popping up all over the site. Cirque du Solittle, the irreverent ASMR Bar and visiting Los Angeles artist Tyler Nacho hold court in the Not Very Big Top. All around them, roving characters drift past like escapees from a Dalí painting or a freaky future, while roller skaters, dancers, free hugs and acrobats appear right when you need them.
At the beating heart of Splore is Lucky Star, which in 2026 is appearing exclusively at Tāpapakanga. Lucky Star first rolled in as a humble coffee caravan and juice bar and from day one just blew up with its own life and energy. “It was wild, irreverent and more than a bit chaotic, yet it always just worked,” says Festival Producer Fryderyk Kublikowski. Over time the Splore crew let it grow and mutate until it became a beloved world within the festival on its own terms.
Run by Mels Berg and Jonas Karsten, Lucky Star mirrors their free-roaming life on the road. When they’re not travelling Aotearoa with a convoy of house trucks and The Extravaganza Fair, or living on their slice of paradise halfway up Mt Taranaki, they roll into Tāpapakanga with a loyal cast of friends and build a buzzing hub that feels like a circus sideshow, backstreet dive bar and a community living room all at once. “We showed up slinging espresso, but Lucky Star was always going to misbehave. Every Splore we tilt things a bit further, from the Portal to late-night disco, ridiculous fashion shows to sunrise bliss-out DJ sets. It is chaos in the best way and Splore gives us the canvas to splash all our colours around,” says Berg.
Berg is also a skilled music and entertainment curator, threading her playful ideas of good times through the Lucky Star programme with top live acts, the finest DJs and antics that draw in, ambush and completely beguile the up-for-it crowd.
For 2026, the line-up is exclusive to Lucky Star. Bass innovator ASHEZ brings high energy, international festival fire. Afro-rooted ensemble Culture Embassy and brass-fuelled party band Mermaid Bait keep the dancefloor at full tilt, while songwriter and performer Nikita 雅涵 Tu-Bryant carves out intimate pockets of song and storytelling. Long time Splore favourite Dylan C returns with the emotional, journey style DJ sets that have become the stuff of late night legend. New for this year, Lucky Star teams up with Loop Recordings Aot(ear)oa for the Loop Electronica Sessions, serving up heady sets from the label’s extended whānau Harry Charles, Sanoi, Zuke. Across the weekend, Lucky Star regulars like Mamadafunk and vinyl diggers Pretty Fly & A White Guy hold the thread with deep soul and disco grooves. And, the not to be missed Mozzarella Cheese Making Rave. Mixing cheese science with cheese maestro Wallace Wensleydale, from fresh milk to fully stretched mozzarella, churn out laughs, lore and lactose in a high energy unforgettable cheese string rave. Prepare for culture. Literally.
Wendy’s Wellness returns in 2026 as Splore’s sanctuary on the hill, where yoga, sound, movement and mischief all share the same mat. The programme threads together breathwork and beach yoga with Taane Mete and Jock-Barnes Graham, a new Run Club with Kayla Jade Gordine that explores hidden corners of Tāpapakanga, Human Design insights from Christine Spicer, and Sonic Flow, a Qigong and Double Gong Journey with the only forty inch Atlantis Gong in Aotearoa. Twerkwerk® brings booty medicine for the soul, Tor White’s Ahoy Griefy invites grief onto the dancefloor, and guided life drawing sessions offer a different kind of stillness and self discovery.
By night the zone shape-shifts into After Dark. The 2026 programme opens with screenings of Serena Stevenson’s Splore film Three Days in February, including a special live remix of the soundtrack, then slides into deep, late night sets from Misled Convoy, Nikita, Love Language, Dive Deep, Toroa, Xuno and Chloe Palmer with VJ Crockstar on visuals. Around them, a village of practitioners offers massage, tarot, palm readings, reiki and reflexology, with sessions available to pre book in the week before the festival. Take the goat track and you will find a whole ecosystem of wellbeing waiting at the top.
Splore 2026 will again turn Tāpapakanga into a living gallery, with large-scale beings, illuminated forms and site-specific works threading through the pōhutukawa shoreline. Visual Arts Producer Shea O’Neill says, “This year we are reimagining the Tāpapakanga environment with colour, bold shapes, movement and light, turning the groves into curated art spaces for Splorers to explore day and night.” For now, Splore can confirm work byLisa Reihana and Trace Element, with the full visual arts line-up still under wraps.
Still to come are full details of the weekend-long kids zone programme and a series of spoken word forums, all set to add even more layers to Splore’s world.
Topping today’s announcements is PrideXSplore, a new collaboration between the Splore Festival Charitable Trust and Auckland Pride. On Saturday 21 February, the queerest day of the festival, Auckland Pride will bring a busload of party people from Karangahape Road to Tāpapakanga for a one day Splore hit. The PrideXSplore pass includes return transport, a guided queer crew experience and a built in posse of rainbow pals to explore, swim and dance with.
In true community style, once 15 tickets are purchased, Splore will gift the remaining 40 places to queer and trans community members who have registered but may not have the means or access to get to Splore.PrideXSplore is about putting the originators of rave and house culture back at the centre of the floor. “We are proud to help give the dancefloor back to some of the people on the margins who built it in the first place,” says Festival Producer Fryderyk Kublikowski. “The queens, the queers, the artists and the unclassifiable beings who deserve a space to be at the rave.”
Splore Festival 2026 takes place from 20 to 22 February at Tāpapakanga Regional Park. Splore is the only place you can experience, Lucky Star and Wendy’s Wellness and Mainstage Cabaret together under one sky this summer. With 140+ acts collectively involved in Splore as of now, there are still more to be announced, bringing the total lineup to over 200.
SPLORE FESTIVAL 2026
February 20-22 2026, Tāpapakanga Regional Park
INTERNATIONAL GUESTS
Röyksopp (dj set) (NO) || Sister Nancy (JM) + Legal Shot (FR) || Nightmares on Wax (UK) || General Levy (UK) + Joe Ariwa (UK) || Mind Enterprises (ITA) || Parson James (USA) || Miss Kaninna (AU) || C.Frim (AU) || Illustrious Blacks (USA) || Beatles Dub Club (UK) || Franca (DE)
LOCAL LIVE & DJS
Tami Neilson || Coco Solid || Jess B || Christoph El Truento (live) || Estère || Dick Move || Romi Wrights || Te KuraHuia || Benny Salvador || Chiccoreli + Tali || DylanBiscuit b2b ajhoneysuckle || BBYFACEKILLA b2b Snakelegs || GoldTooth || Half Queen || ilish || Kaiviti || Marjorie Sinclair || NymphLoads || ORIKoL || Vercetti || WAEWAEXPRESS || Arcadia || Love Language || Hudge || Bobby Brazuka || Dastardly Bounder || DJ Banty || Rose Alice
PERFORMANCE + CABARET
Chris Oh! || The Butterfly Who Flew Into The Rave || House of Coven || Oblivion Westwood || The Conservatory || Chemistry Roller Crew || Tyler Nacho || Blip The Siren || Cirque du Solittle || Flame Entertainment || Fraser Hooper || Free Hugs || Kayla Paige || Letitia Lickkit || The Dynamic Duo || The Paul Klaass Street Show || The Snacrobats
THE LUCKY STAR PRESENTS
AlleyKat || ASHEZ || Barn Dance with a Twist || Benthamism || Breath Wright || Ceci Leemeco || Conrad Coom || Culture Embassy || Darcy & Daisy Lammington || Dylan C || Harry Charles || JJ’s Reggae Bingo || Libby K || Lord Woo || Loop Electronica Sessions || Lucky Star All Stars Band || Mamadafunk || Matt Rapid & Elise Adlam || Mermaid Bait || Mix n Match || Mozzarella Cheese Making Rave || msjos || Narzys Birdie Bonanza || Nikita 雅涵 Tu-Bryant || Patsy Skeet || Pretty Fly & A White Guy || Princess Room || Queen B & The Nobles || Ravensdaughter || Rock N Roll Alley || Sanoi || Sister Act || Stevie T || Take ‘Em To Church || The Fantastic Mr Penguin || The Huneybee Wild || The Mara || Tommy and The Woo || Tysonidero || Zuke
WENDY’S WELLNESS
FACILITATORS: Amanda Wright || Chardin || Christine Spicer || Claire Conza || Franki Cole || Joanna Walden || Julia Vajda de Albuquerque || Katie Greengrass || Kiri Walden || Lauren Filer || Loren Honey || Louise Mills || Maryam Al-Roubaiai || Maya Nova || Meg Bell || Raquel Minh || Sarah Spence || Summer Knight || Tor White || Taane Mete + Jock Barnes Graham || Tracey Bennett || Zoe Kee-Sue
PRACTITIONERS: Christopher Jones || Jackie Segers || James Hancox || Kimberly Mabbett || Lana Raill || Laura Jean || Phoebe Hart || Rā Balderas
AFTER DARK: Chloe Palmer || Deep Dive || Love Language || Misled Convoy || Nikita 雅涵 Tu-Bryant || Three Days In February || Toroa || Xuno’s Conscious Audio Creations
WELLNESS POP-UP: Em Wafer || Kayla Gordine || Serena Stevenson
GIBSON XCVIII RELEASE NEW SINGLE ‘FEELING LUCKY’
Today, the Otautahi/Christchurch indie-pop duo GIBSON XCVIII have released ‘FEELING LUCKY’ - a track written during a time where it felt like all pieces of the puzzle were right where they belong. Listen to it here!
Formed in 2020 by Dean Gibson and Mark Holwood, GIBSON XCVIII are known for their uplifting melodies, eloquent guitar work, and emotionally honest songwriting - their tracks touching on themes of connection, loss, hope and everyday life in Aotearoa. With standout singles like “SEE YOU AGAIN,” “GAME OF LIFE,” and “SEROTONIN,” they have built a reputation for heartfelt storytelling and accessible, community-minded live shows - including their signature $5 GA events. Rising quickly within New Zealand’s music scene, GIBSON XCVIII continue to captivate audiences nationwide.
‘FEELING LUCKY’ came to life when Dean and Mark found themselves filled with a feeling of being at the right place at the right time, lyrics reflecting that exact moment when life felt fully complete. Made with funding with NZ on Air and included in their December Newtracks compilation.
Dean Gibson says "The making of ‘FEELING LUCKY’ from start to finish has been nothing but absolute fun. I've never had so much fun making a track in the past." This is the first song we've released that I'm actually playing the drums on which is a nice touch - I really hope people can feel it."
Spending 2025 focusing on their craft, the duo have also embarked on a nationwide tour with CROWN and fans can catch them at Mackenzie Summer Sounds this New Year’s Eve.
There’s so much more in store for this talented pair - their passion, lyricism and melodic guitar sequences providing a comforting feel to listeners. GIBSON XCVIIIare looking forward to seeing this release go live ahead of the end of the year, and kicking back into music making in 2026.
‘FEELING LUCKY’ by GIBSON XCVIII is out now, stream it here.
Stay connected with GIBSON XCVIII
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AUCKLAND PRIDE FESTIVAL 2026 PROGRAMME ANNOUNCE
Today Auckland Pride launches its first look at its Programme of events for the 2026 Auckland Pride Festival. Auckland Pride Festival 2026 is set to transform Tāmaki Makaurau this February with a series of events and activations that champion and gather together Takatāpui and Rainbow communities. Announced today, the festival showcases a diverse line-up of art, creativity, celebration and more - with tickets now on sale.
Featuring more than 190 events, the first launch of programming includes major staple, Big Gay Out, as well as the return of Auckland Council Proud Centres which offer free fun events in all corners of Tamaki Makaurau all month, along with much much more. Tickets for events throughout February - and beyond - are listed on the Auckland Pride website with information on how to purchase/register for any one of these incredible celebrations.
“This year's festival theme Ngā Uri E! is a call, rallying communities in the wake of all that oppress Takatāpui, MVPFAFF+ and Rainbow Communities, to join in working together as a united front. It is a reminder that as we commemorate the 40th anniversary of homosexual law reform, we recognise that we are the inheritors of more than a festival. We are the descendants of a movement, of histories of protest, of resilience, of artistry. The movements of our time are strengthened when we act in relation to one another.” says Auckland Pride Director Hāmiora Bailey.
Bailey continues; “As we look to the year ahead, we begin with the call: Ngā Uri E! To you, the descendants of a movement, hikina te mānuka – take up the challenge. This festival invites participation across generations: to create, to perform, to organise and to stand together. Pride is not only a celebration; it is a continuum of solidarity, of advocacy, of justice.”
Opening the Festival on Sunday 1 February, Te Tīmatanga transforms into a collective movement led by Coco Solid, bringing together emerging Takatāpui creatives through Wharekura Raumati summer wānanga for a powerful opening event. From Gadigal Country, London and Hamburg, ANITO presents a queer Filipino future-folkloric epic exploring ancestry, spirit worlds, and transformation, blending puppetry, performance and sound. Created and performed by Justin Talplacido Shoulder with support from Victoria Hunt, the work is complemented by Pride Connects workshops, fostering cross-cultural exchange between Indigenous and diasporic artists.
In a first-time collaboration, Auckland Pride and Splore Festival present PrideXSplore, a one-day experience celebrating Splore’s iconic queer Saturday lineup. Tickets include festival entry, transport, and a Pride host crew, with every purchase helping co-fund spots for Rainbow whānau who might not otherwise attend. Returning for the second year, Vector Lights sees artist Mars Cookilluminate the Auckland Harbour Bridge with a bespoke light show (13–21 February) honouring 40 years of Homosexual Law Reform, culminating in a sunrise silent disco on 20 February. Auckland Pride also welcomes the return of the Praise The Lord Playwright Residency, in partnership with Auckland Theatre Company, Samesame But Different and the Robert Lord Writers Cottage Trust, championing bold new queer writing. With expressions of interest now closed, the selected resident will be announced through a staged reading of their work at Basement Theatre on 7 February 2026, presented as part of the Same Same But Different Praise The Lord Playwright Residency event.
Auckland Pride closes in the Karangahape Gaybourhood, with “Out of the Gutter” Street Party, a sunset showcase and market for all ages, featuring a lineup that celebrates community artistry and excellence then, now and into the future. Evoking HERO and conjuring Coming Out Days of years gone by, expect glamour, grit, legacy, and a queer extravaganza where generations meet, because Pride isn’t only about where we’ve been, it’s also about where we’re heading.
Auckland Pride remains dedicated to empowering, celebrating, and serving the Takatāpui and Rainbow Communities of Tāmaki Makaurau. As we progress toward our closing event and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of homosexual law reform, Auckland Pride invites Takatāpui and Rainbow communities, along with all supporters and allies, to join in this month of celebration, togetherness, reflection and heralding a future of inclusivity and pride. For more details, ticket information and updates, please visit www.aucklandpride.org.nz.
More than a festival, Pride is a movement.
UPU ANNOUNCED AT THE WAIKATO REGIONAL THEATRE
Award-winning and electrifying theatre experience UPU celebrates Pacific voices on stage. Fresh from its sold-out Sydney Opera House season, UPU returns home as the first-ever Tagata Moana work at the Waikato Regional Theatre. Be immersed in the heart of the Pacific with a powerful celebration of our ocean, our people, and our stories.
Tickets go on sale at 12pm on Friday 12 December.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: waikatoregionaltheatre.co.nz
Poems as broad and deep as the Pacific Ocean itself.
UPU - meaning ‘word’ in many languages of the Pacific, is a collection of voices from our people who live on a sea of islands connected by the vast Pacific Ocean, Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa.
Featuring works by celebrated poets including Maualaivao Albert Wendt, Selina Tusitala Marsh, Hone Tuwhare, Tusiata Avia, and Ben Brown, alongside emerging voices from across the region, UPU weaves a rich tapestry of stories, experiences and perspectives from our peoples of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa. These poems reflect on cultural identity, history and the challenges faced by our Pacific communities from Hawaiians debating Captain Cook’s legacy, to the joys of SPAM in Guam and other islands in the Pacific impacted by US militarisation and illegal occupation, to the Marshall Islands’ struggle against rising seas.
Poetry is powerful on the page - but on stage, it’s pure magic.
Performed by an extraordinary ensemble of Tagata Moana artists including Miriama McDowell, Jarod Rawiri and Nicola Kāwana, and enhanced by evocative lighting, projections and an original multi-layered soundscape design, UPU is an intimate and unforgettable celebration of our ocean, our people and our stories.
All poems are performed in English.
UPU
WAIKATO REGIONAL THEATRE, HAMILTON
THURSDAY 12 & FRIDAY 13 FEBRUARY
TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY DECEMBER 12 AT 12PM LOCAL
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: www.waikatoregionaltheatre.co.nz
Run time
The duration of this event is 60 minutes.
Event duration is a guide only and may be subject to change.
Age
Recommended for ages 15+
Performances will contain strobe lighting, strong language and adult themes.
Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied at all times.
UPU features published works of the following poets:
Tusiata Avia, Ben Brown, Brandy Nālani McDougall, Craig Santos Perez, Sia Figiel, Briar Grace-Smith, Daren Kamali, Karlo Mila, Grace Mera Molisa, Noʻu Revilla, Celestine Kulagoe, John Pule, Tafea Polamalu, Leilani Tamu, Apirana Taylor, Teresia Teaiwa, Hone Tuwhare, Selina Tusitala Marsh, Kathy Jetñil-Kijiner, Konai Helu Thaman, Albert Leomala, Maualaivao Albert Wendt and Lyz Soto.
CREATIVES
UPU COLLECTIVE
Artistic Director & Co-Creator: Fasitua Amosa
Curator & Co-Creator: Grace Iwashita-Taylor
Producer: Ana Corbett
Production Manager & Sound Engineer: Emily Hakaraia
Lighting & Projection Design: Rowan Pierce
Soundscape Design & Original Composition: Faiumu Matthew Salapu
Set Design: Michael McCabe
Costume Design: Kristin Seth
Artist & Cultural Design Elements (Mamanu Design): Tyla Vaeau
Movement & Choreography: Joash Fahitua
Tech Operator: Elekis Poblete
Stage Manager: Eliza Rutter
CAST
Fasitua Amosa
Ana Corbett
Nicola Kāwana
Miriama McDowell
Shadon Meredith
Jarod Rāwiri
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.
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.