CLARA LA SAN TO PERFORM AT THE TUNING FORK IN JUNE

British alternative-R&B artist Clara La San is set to captivate audiences across New Zealand this June, announcing her Chosen Silences NZ debut tour to come to Tāmaki Makaurau’s Tuning Fork on Sunday, June 14.

Emerging as a magnetic new voice in alt-pop, Clara La San crafts a sound that’s equal parts intimate and otherworldly. Blending smoky vocals with minimalist R&B production, her music drifts between late-night vulnerability and quiet confidence, pulling listeners into a hazy, emotionally rich universe that feels both deeply personal and effortlessly cool.

Tickets can be secured in the Tuning Fork presale from Thursday 26 March at 9:00am. The general public can then secure their tickets from Friday 27 March at 9:00am. For more information, visit thetuningfork.co.nz. 

First emerging in 2016 as a defining voice in underground R&B, Clara La San quietly vanished from the public eye the following year, removing her mixtape Good Mourningfrom streaming and only dropping occasional hints that she was still creating music. Despite her absence, a devoted cult following formed around her limited catalog, and the viral success of her 2014 track “In This Darkness” on TikTok reignited excitement for her return. 

Her first solo release since 2017, “Don’t Worry About It,” arrived cloaked in the signature clubby, ethereal sound that had become her hallmark, bridging the gap between past and present. This was followed by her debut album Made Mistakes, entirely written and produced by La San, which set the stage for a series of singles leading into her upcoming tour dates - including her highly anticipated visit to Aotearoa later this year.

With close to a billion global career streams and over 2.5 million daily plays across her catalog, Clara has cultivated a devoted global fanbase and sold-out headline shows and continues to shape contemporary R&B on her own terms.

“Clara La San’s sound is singular. Her voice is effortless, slippery. Her lyrics have the unique quality of being disarmingly direct, moving between the confessional and meditative.” — PAPER
 

CLARA LA SAN

THE TUNING FORK
AUCKLAND
14 JUNE 2026 

TICKETS ON SALE FROM FRIDAY 27 MARCH, 9AM
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: tuningfork.co.nz

GRETA VAN DEN BRINK RELEASES ‘BODIES’ THE FIFTH SINGLE FROM HER DEBUT ALBUM ‘THIS WASN’T PLANNED’ OUT MAY 2026

Indie‑pop artist Greta van den Brink has today released her latest single Bodies, the fifth preview from her forthcoming nine‑track album This Wasn’t Planned, due May 2026. Bodies is a darkly cinematic exploration of identity, anxiety, and the unsettling glamour of the entertainment world, pairing Greta’s confessional storytelling with a glossy, haunting sonic palette.

A genre-blurring creator whose artistry spans screen and stage, Greta first made waves in film and stunt work, training at Sam Neill’s The Actor’s Program and contributing stunt performances to major productions like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and Apple TV’s Time Bandits. Her move into music has been equally compelling, with her debut single Road to Hell unexpectedly landing on a Netflix soundtrack and paving the way for her distinct blend of vivid storytelling and emotional rawness. 

From the dreamy lo‑fi of Chill Cool Girl to the self-aware bite of GIMBGTBLBM, the confessional sharpness of Mr Ego, and the reflective, cinematic sweep of Alpine State of Mind, Greta’s debut album continues to establish her as a bold, emotionally resonant voice in Aotearoa’s indie-pop landscape, culminating in the darkly cinematic intensity of Bodies.

Bodies originated in a caffeine-spiked afternoon that peaked Greta’s mind in the most specific way. Originally about anxiety, the song evolved into something darker and shinier: the glossy chaos of LA and Hollywood, where people are impossibly beautiful, eerily emotionless, and endlessly interchangeable. The track explores the fear of slowly metamorphosing into someone you don’t recognize, inspired by a world of shifting appearances, drug‑fuelled nights, conspiracy theories, and body‑horror entertainment like Ryan Murphy’s The Beauty and Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance.

Greta says, “Part of my perspective comes from working as a stunt performer, where you exist as a replaceable body for a production. Bodies sits right in that tension - glamour and decay, performance and identity - asking: in a world obsessed with appearances, how long before we all become just bodies?”

Sonically, Bodies blends Greta’s indie‑pop roots with darker, cinematic textures, reflecting the tension between performance and identity. The track cements her reputation as an artist unafraid to confront both personal and societal unease while keeping her signature emotional honesty at the forefront.

Bodies by Greta van den Brink is out now, stream it here. 

Stay connected with Greta van den Brink: 
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE

SEUN KUTI & EGYPT 80 TOUR AOTEAROA PLUS THE FIRST ACT ANNOUNCED FOR WINTER SERIES

Nigerian musician, singer, and songwriter Seun Kuti returns to Aotearoa after previously headling WOMAD in 2009 and 2016. The youngest son of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, he is the first act to be announced for the Winter Series at Auckland Town Hall this May, before heading to Wellington’s Meow Nui, and will joined by his father’s former band Egypt 80.

The Winter Series returns for its second year; a curated concert series brought to you by Live Nation in association with Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, on behalf of Auckland Council Events. Showcasing impressive international acts alongside some of Aotearoa’s most beloved artists in Tāmaki Makaurau this May. Sign up to the waitlist to find out more: www.livenation.co.nz/auckland-winter-series  

Seun Kuti is a Nigerian musician, singer, and songwriter renowned for his captivating performances and socially conscious music. He is the youngest son of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti. Seun has spent most of his life preserving and extending his father’s political and musical legacy as the leader of his father’s former band Egypt 80. As a developing saxophonist and percussionist, he entered the formal ranks of the band before he was 12. In 1997 when Fela passed, in fulfilment of his father’s wishes, Seun assumed the mantle as head of Egypt 80 and he has run it ever since. As a musician and pan-African activist, Seun has been involved in a number of campaigns in recent years, including #OccupyNigeria and #EndSARS – a social movement against police brutality in Nigeria. Significantly, he’s revived the Movement of the People (M.O.P.), the political party his father set up in 1979, which was quashed by the military government not long after Fela’s failed presidential bid.

‘Heavier Yet (Lays The Crownless Head)’ is the highly-awaited new album by Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 published on October 4th 2024, via Milan independent label Record Kicks. Coming six years after the Grammy nominated album ‘Black Times’, this album marks a pivotal moment in Seun Kuti’s illustrious career, showcasing his evolution as an artist and activist. Executive produced by legendary musician Lenny Kravitz and Fela Kuti’s original engineer Sodi Marciszewer (artistic producer) and featuring special guests as Damian Marley and Sampa The Great.

On May 30 2025, Seun Kuti shares the highly anticipated Deluxe Edition of "Heavier Yet (Lays The Crownless Head)" via Record Kicks. Seun expands the sonic and political scope of the original album, presenting a compelling suite of remixes, reworks, and new collaborations that bring fresh perspectives to his message of resistance, empowerment, and cultural pride. The stellar collaborations include new jazz giant Kamasi Washingtonon “Move (Keep Moving Version),” French-Caribbean goddess Adi Oasis on “Love & Revolution (Cinnamon Version),” Zambian rapper and revolutionary poet Sampa The Great on “Emi Aluta (Zamrock Remix),” the legendary Pos of De La Soul on “Stand Well Well (Grand Stand Version)”, UK duo Gaudi & Don Letts on the disco dub remix of “Dey” feat. Damian Marley and reggae star on “T.O.P. (Over The Top Version)”.

During his career, Seun Kuti released other 4 albums with Egypt 80: ‘Many Things’ (2008), ‘From Africa with Fury: Rise for Knitting Factory Records’ (2011), coproduced by Brian Eno and John Reynolds, ‘A Long Way Beginning’ (2014) and the Grammy nominated ‘Black Times’ (2018) that included a feature from Carlos Santana. He also released numerous EPs. In 2022, Seun Kuti joined forces with Roots frontman and MC extraordinaire Black Thought in the EP ‘African Dreams’. In 2023, he collaborated on Janelle Monae’s ‘The Age of Pleasure’ (Grammy nominee for Album Of The Year) with the two singles ‘Float’; and ‘Knows Better’; teamed up with Talib Kweli and MadLib for their album ‘Liberation 2’ on the song ‘Nat Turner’ featuring Cassper Nyovest and released a new version of the single ‘Bad Man Lighter’ with Black Thought, featuring Vic Mensa.

Seun Kuti has started a side project, which looks to Afrobeats music, with his alter ego BigBird, together with Nigerian rapper Vector, releasing the singles "OOP (S)" with Odumodublvck and "The Matter".

SEUN KUTI & EGYPT 80

AUCKLAND TOWN HALL, AUCKLAND
AS PART OF THE WINTER SERIES
SATURDAY 30 MAY

MEOW NUI, WELLINGTON
SUNDAY 31 MAY

TIM BATT RETURNS TO NZ INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL WITH ETERNAL OPTIMIST)

A sharp, heartfelt, and unashamedly left-wing look at politics, parenthood and staying positive in 2026

Award-winning comedian and podcaster Tim Batt is back this May with his brand new show Eternal Optimist — a fearless, funny, and hopeful hour about New Zealand politics, the chaotic joy of fatherhood, and the rebellious act of staying upbeat when everything seems on fire.

Tickets are available now from comedyfestival.co.nz.

Known for his incisive political wit and brilliant irreverence, Batt brings the same sharp energy that’s made him a two-time Billy T Award nominee, three-time winner of Best Comedy Podcast at the NZ Podcast Awards, and co-host of the smash-hit global podcast The Worst Idea of All Time, which has racked up over 20 million downloads.

Eternal Optimist blends biting political satire with moments of genuine reflection on parenting and activism — exploring what it means to hold onto hope in an increasingly bleak world. Batt doesn’t shy away from tough topics, but he always finds the punchline.

“Unfortunately, comedy appears to be more important than ever as the world faces down a resurgence of a**holes trying to take away hard-won rights, so let's get in a room and have a laugh together!” — Tim Batt

Delivering his trademark mix of intelligence, absurdity and progressive politics, Batt invites audiences to laugh loud, think hard, and maybe even check their voter enrollment on the way out.

WELLINGTON: BATS Theatre — May 6–9, 6:30pm
AUCKLAND: Q Theatre — May 13–16, 9:15pm
Part of the 2026 New Zealand International Comedy Festival

A PERFECT CIRCLE CONFIRM RETURN TO NEW ZEALAND WITH SPECIAL GUEST PUSCIFIER

Live Nation has today announced that American rock band A Perfect Circle, formed in 1999 by guitarist Billy Howerdel and Tool vocalist Maynard James Keenan, will visit New Zealand in December, marking their return to New Zealand following a 22-year absence!

A Perfect Circle fans have been waiting in anticipation for an announcement following the unveiling of a massive European tour last year, the band's first headline outing since 2018. The tour kicks off June 3 in London, U.K. at the city's O2 Academy in Brixton and wraps up at Mad Cool Festival on July 10 in Madrid. The run consists of both headline shows and festival appearances around the continent.

A Perfect Circle will perform at Auckland’s Spark Arena on Sunday 13 December. 

Joining A Perfect Circle on their upcoming trek is Puscifer, the electro-rock outfit featuring Keenan, Mat Mitchell, and Carina Round. Known for blending dark electronic textures, post-punk atmospherics, and theatrical storytelling into a singular live experience, the band recently released their latest album, Normal Isn't."

Formed in 1999 by Billy Howerdel and Maynard James Keenan, A Perfect Circle has released four albums throughout their career while holding the distinction of having the highest-charting debut rock album at the time, Mer de Noms (2000). The collection, which boasted ever popular singles “Judith” and “3 Libras,” set a significant milestone for alternative and hard rock. Over their 25-plus-year career, they have released three additional albums: Thirteenth Step (2003), eMOTIVe (2004), and Eat the Elephant (2018), which debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200 and topped the Billboard Rock Albums chart. 

A Perfect Circle has headlined festivals worldwide, sold out prestigious venues including the Hollywood Bowl, Madison Square Garden and the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and performed on a variety of late-night television programs including “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “The Tonight Show.” 

Puscifer is a band of three creative confidants, namely Mat Mitchell, Carina Round, and Maynard James Keenan. It’s a vehicle for sonic and visual storytelling on stages worldwide and on screen through videos, animation, content, and more. It’s indelibly left its mark everywhere, releasing a series of acclaimed albums, selling out famed venues, probing the lineups of Coachella, Bonnaroo, and other festivals, and even curating their own touring festival, Sessanta. They’ve provided what was essentially the soundtrack to the first season of “Yellowstone,” and their albums regularly land on the top 30 of the Billboard Top 200. They’ve caused a ruckus on late-night television, with appearances on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and the “The Late Show.”

At the same time, Puscifer has welcomed a revolving door of collaborators, from musicians like Greg Edwards, Gunnar Olsen, and Sarah Jones to remixers including Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, Phantogram, and Sir Mix-A-Lot, and even actors such as Bob Odenkirk and Milla Jovovich. It’s also a universe for the (mis)adventures of original characters: Billy D, (his wife) Hildy Berger, Major Douche, and Special Agent Dick Merkin – now joined by new additions to the Pusciverse, Bellendia Black and Fanny Grey. It’s a 21st-century freak show where anything goes, everyone is welcome, and nothing is off-limits.

 A PERFECT CIRCLE
NEW ZEALAND 2026
WITH SPECIAL GUEST PUSCIFER

Spark Arena, Auckland
Sunday 13 December

ELLA MONNERY ANNOUNCED AS SUPPORT FOR SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR’S NEW ZEALAND SHOWS

Today, the widely dynamic kiwi artist Ella Monnery has been announced to support British chart-topper Sophie Ellis-Bextor on her two-date Aotearoa tour on Tuesday 3 February at Kirikiriroa Hamilton’s BNZ Theatre, and Wednesday 4 February at Otautahi Christchurch’s James Hay Theatre. Monnery will warm the crowd up with her incomparable stage presence before the night rolls into Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s noughties favourites and brand-new pop anthems from her latest album Perimenopop. 

Powerhouse vocalist Ella Monnery burst onto the Aotearoa music scene in 2018 and her incomparable talent has since seen her perform at the country’s biggest festivals (Rhythm and Vines, Homegrown, Electric Avenue, Rhythm and Alps, Mardi Gras) she has also fronted major acts such as SACHI and SYNTHONY. Her voice has taken her across the globe as a solo artist performing internationally in Singapore, Mexico, Greece and the Netherlands. Not one for complacently, Ella has now broken into the recorded music scene hitting New Zealand official music charts as a recording artist working alongside Lee Mvtthews, Kings, P-Money, Ekko & Sidetrack and Sly Chaos. A crowd favourite for the National anthem, co-hosting on George FM radio, racking up millions of views on TikTok and reaching the semi-finals on The Voice Australia – Ella’s talent knows no limits and she is now fully stepping into her artistry and embarking on an exciting new chapter as solo artist.

One of the biggest British pop artists to emerge from the 2000s, Sophie Ellis-Bextorestablished herself as a pop diva with smash-hits like Murder On The Dancefloor, Get Over You and Take Me Home. Spanning across seven studio albums, her discography transcends layers of genres from dance-pop and folk to prog-rock and orchestral pop. By 17, she had joined Brit-pop band Theaudience, reaching #22 on the UK charts with their debut album. Following the band's breakup in 1999, Sophie wasted no time launching her solo career, where she would go on to create the iconic disco anthems fans know and love today. Showcasing a blend of '80s-influenced synth-pop and disco, 2001’s Read My Lips, reached number 2 in the UK. and hit the top 20 in several countries around the globe. Making a pop culture resurgence in 2023 after Murder on the Dancefloor was featured in cult film Saltburn, and covered by Royel Otis, Ellis-Bextor’s reach has extended to a new generation of listeners. Proving herself as a timeless pop icon, Sophie Ellis-Bextor will be uniting both new and all-time fans to enjoy her glittery hits in Aotearoa in 2026.

CASUAL HEALING RELEASES SINGLE ‘TELL THE TRUTH’ FROM FINAL EP OF HIS FOUR-EP SERIES

Pōneke-based soulful musician Nikau Te Huki (Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Wairarapa) known to audiences asCasual Healing, has today released ‘Tell The Truth’ - the second single from his final of four EPs embodying the elements. AHI (fire), HAU (wind), WAI (water) and completing the ambitious cycle, ONE (earth) in March 2026 are inspired by Te Taiao - the natural world. 

‘Tell the Truth’ is the second single from Casual Healing's EP - ONE (pronounced awe-ne). The fourth and final chapter of the elemental series is a timeless live performance of five new songs written by Nikau Te Huki.

In a classic Aotearoa Roots/Reggae style, Casual Healing provides the latest chapter of the book with ‘Tell the Truth’. Born from the guilt of telling a lie, this song was written in the hopes of encouraging the truth in our lives. 

“I lied to my insurance company and it backfired, I decided that day that the truth is the way. The world is full of illusion, smoke and mirrors - so let the truth of the kick and snare shatter the mirror and defuse the smoke.”

Recorded by Mike Gibson at Massey Studio - ‘Tell The Truth’ features an 11-piece band including Luther Hunt, Becky Devine, Sammy Lenati, Joseph Jenkins, Matiu Te Huki, Rudy Matoi, Jordan Gray, Toby Leman, Kaito Walley and Mysty Cooke. Nikau is stoked to have finally broken free from the boundaries of bedroom recording to produce a full band sound, live and direct as an ode to the trail blazers of recorded music.

2025 was a significant year for Casual Healing - writing, recording and releasing his four carefully curated studio EPs that aim to redefine his creative path - and have already been met with acclaim and great warmth from both listeners and the Aotearoa media database.

For over 10 years, Nikau Te Huki has embedded human and spiritual intimacy and connection into the foundation of his artistry. The result has yielded incredible musical results that have mirrored life experiences loved, lived and learned from. His solo project Casual Healing made a stunning debut with the 2024 album DRIFTWOOD, which led to sold-out tours and standout performances at SXSW Sydney, Rhythm & Vines, TSB Festival of Lights and more.

Casual Healing is blazing a trail nationwide to indigenise and revitalise the practise of puoro (music). Leading from the heart as an advocate for musicians and artists of all mediums to be valued as practitioners who provide an essential service, claiming - "it’s art that makes the world go around".

ALI WHITTON RELEASES SECOND SINGLE FROM UPCOMING DEBUT ALBUM ‘HOPEFUL HEART’

Indie-folk singer-songwriter Ali Whitton has today released ‘Hopeful Heart’ - a powerful follow-up to November’s track ‘Quiet My Heart’ ahead of his debut album Between the Forest and the Stars due to release in April 2026.

Ali Whitton’s songwriting journey has taken him from rural North Yorkshire to the stages of London, Paris and Aotearoa - shaped by heartbreak, reinvention, and a lifelong connection to storytelling. Inspired early on by discovering his father’s poetry, Ali learned that songwriting could be a way to process life’s most emotional moments.

After fronting bands and performing solo across Europe, Ali relocated to New Zealand in 2010, where he began releasing music under the name Lost Bird and became a fixture on the local acoustic circuit. A longtime friendship with Ed Sheeranled to a pivotal moment in 2023, when Ali shared a work-in-progress track that sparked a year-long songwriting and recording commitment.

That collaboration has since evolved into Ali’s debut album, co-produced by Dave Khan (Marlon Williams, The Veils, Reb Fountain) and Reb Fountain featuring musicians Gus Agars and Steve Harrop - marking an exciting new chapter in his career.

Today’s release of ‘Hopeful Heart’ gives audiences another sneak peek into what to expect from April’s album release. Lyrically, ‘Hopeful Heart’ is a cynical lament to the optimism and the ‘keeping-on-trying’ mentality of a dreamer, whose heart is always hoping for some big true love and sees only ‘the possible’, and the good in the world, only to be so-often let down. “It really shows the unkindness of our inner voices sometimes, how we are all constantly wrestling with the balance between our hopes and our setbacks.”

Ali’s full body of work encapsulates the spiritof a traveller, moving through the world. In ‘Hopeful Heart’ Ali found himself in the thick of his challenge of writing a song a week for a year. “In between solo parenting and the day job, I had hardly any time to write the song for the week I was in, so the opening line ‘hopeful heart, another song’ was almost expressing exasperation towards the challenge. It ended up being written really quickly and being about the dreamer inside of me that just wants to do music and experience all the beauty in the world versus the reality of the day job, the grind, and the aches of life.”

Today’s single and Ali’s debut album Between the Forest and the Stars showcases a sound that is woody and warm, rich and layered, with Ali’s voice always at the centre, vulnerable yet true. There is comfort in this music, as well as a deep sense of longing.

PLAY IT STRANGE ANNOUNCES COMPETITION DATES AND ALL-STAR LINEUP OF JUDGES FOR 2026

After a record-breaking year of competition entries, producing 876 original songs and waiata, the most in their 23-year history, Play It Strange is thrilled to be back for 2026. Today the charitable trust announces an incredible lineup of 23 world-class artists from throughout Aotearoa, as well as the dates of their 2026 competitions including their Junior, National, Peace Project and Waiata Māori competitions. 

Play It Strange CEO Stephanie Brown says: “In 2025, Play It Strange received a record number of song entries from rangatahi across Aotearoa, spanning languages, styles, and genres. Recognising the power of songwriting during the formative teenage years, we’ve brought together 23 established musicians to judge nearly 1,000 original songs written in bedrooms and classrooms across the motu. Our judges span a wide range of musical worlds, ensuring every young songwriter can see themselves reflected in Play It Strange”.

All competitions will open their entries next Monday, 2 February. Entries will then close for the Junior Competition first of all, on Sunday, 3 May, with winners notified by Friday, 22 May. Judges for the junior competition include There’s a Tuesday frontwoman Nat Hutton, young alt-pop songwriter Frankie Venter, award-winning pop icon Boh Runga, reggae and roots trailblazer Laughton Kora, Split Enz alumni and Play It Strange founder Mike Chunn, and soul-pop artist Muroki.

2026 judge Frankie Venter is not only a rising star in Aotearoa’s music scene, but a Play It Strange Alumni who was a finalist in Play It Strange’s 2022 Junior Competition! She says: “It’s such an honour to judge the Junior Competition! Play It Strange is such an incredible organisation for young artists - I’m super excited to hear what people come up with this round! I released my first song through Play It Strange when I was in high school and it was such an awesome kickstart to releasing my own music!"

Sunday, 24 May will then see the Peace Project competition close, with winners being notified by Friday, 12 June. Judged by pop powerhouse and Play It Strange’s very own Paige, genre-blending neo-soul artist Jordyn with a Why, internationally acclaimed soul singer Deva Mahal, award-winning rapper and producer Tom Scott and, once again, Mike Chunn - this competition has been freshly re-named this year to clearly reflect its initiative. The focus is on purpose - using songwriting to respond to the times we are living in and to contribute something meaningful through your art. Entrants are encouraged to write lyrics that reflect their own perspective on peace, whether that relates to personal wellbeing, relationships, community unity, cultural identity, or global issues. Participants are asked to consider why peace matters right now, what it looks like in their own world, and how their song can contribute to the wider project.

Platinum artist Paige returns to the judging panel again this year, after judging the National Competition in 2025. “I’m so passionate about the meaningful and thought provoking songwriting coming out of Aotearoa, especially from our rangatahi. I’ve always loved how in history, music has been shaped by the political and social state of the world and how it’s used to heal us. I’m excited to hear the songs that come out of the Peace Project this year. With the way the world is moving right now we need some good tunes!”

On Sunday 21 June, the Waiata Competition will close, with winners notified by Wednesday 8 July. Powerful wāhine artist Ria Hall, and producer and songwriter Noema Te Hau III will judge this competition, with last year's intake seeing more rangatahi than ever entered. The competition aims to incorporate te reo Māori - whether it’s a few kupu (words) or the entire waiata - to showcase the incredible talent we have in Aotearoa specifically throughout this area of the industry. 

Noema Te Hau III is thrilled to be coming on board to judge the Waiata Māori Competition, saying: “Judging the 2026 Play It Strange Waiata Māori Competition is especially meaningful to me because of how waiata Māori has shaped my own creative journey. It’s a privilege to support and uplift rangatahi who are using music to explore identity, perspectives, tell their own unique stories, and carry our culture forward through waiata Māori”.

Play It Strange’s biggest competition of all, the National Songwriting Competition, will close entries on Sunday, 26 July, with winners being notified by Wednesday 19 August.The impressive collection of judges for this year’s National Competition includes pop icon Cassie Henderson, Drax Project’s Shaan Singh, producer and engineer EDY On The Beat, singer-songwriter Riiki Reid, country artist Kaylee Bell, Academy Award-winning songwriter Bret McKenzie, Devilskin lead singer Jennie Skulander, powerhouse singer-songwriter Gin Wigmore, genre-crossing rapper and producer Melodownz, and Play It Strange’s Mike Chunn.

Riiki Reid judges for Play It Strange for the first time this year, and says: “Being a judge in this year's Play It Strange Competition makes me SO excited to witness the new up and coming writers and musicians of Aotearoa. The work that Play It Strange does is so important for our youth - it is a way that we can introduce them into our music industry with the support and guidance they need. There's an enormous amount of talent here and I'm grateful to be able to play a part in spotlighting our talented youth. I have so much hope for the way young artists will positively shape music in our country”. 

2025’s four major competition winners included:

Salem Māhia Randall from Tairāwhiti Gisborne (2025 National Songwriting Competition Winner)
Ihaka Whanarere-Tauri from Whanganui (2025 Waiata Māori Competition Winner)
Betty Shen from Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland (2025 Peace Song Competition winner)
Sienna Fitzgerald from Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland (2025 Junior Songwriting Competition winner)

Following last year’s success, Play It Strange awarded these winners prizes including recording their singles in a professional studio, mentoring sessions, radio airplay, Artist Development sessions and inclusion on Play It Strange’s digital albums available on all major streaming platforms.

Behind each entry into a Play It Strange competition, there are hundreds of young people finding their voice, building confidence, and feeling empowered to share their creativity with the world. 

The small but mighty team of 3 including Stephanie Brown, Evie Bamford and Paige Tapara showcase creativity, passion, and relentless mahi to mirror the work of founder, Mike Chunn and consistently offer the New Zealand Music Industry and its rangatahi countless opportunities to immerse themselves in songwriting, breaking down barriers and welcoming everyone in with open arms. 

Mike Chunn has listened to every single Play It Strange submission for 23 years - more than 7200 songs. Mike says: “The volume of entries is increasing, and the quality is extraordinary. It is a joy to witness the evolution of Play It Strange”.

About Play It Strange: 
Established in 2003, Play it Strange runs annual national songwriting competitions for high school students, with finalists awarded a day in a recording studio to professionally record their songs. Play It Strange releases these songs on digital albums and provide mentorship and performance opportunities. Their alumni list includes Kimbra, Georgia Nott of Broods, Liz Stokes of The Beths, Frankie Venter, Annah Mac, Louis Baker, CHAII, Luca George, Ratbag and so many more. 

BANISHED MUSIC & STRANGE NEWS PRESENT STRANGE UNIVERSE AUTUMN EDITION - FULL LINEUP REVEALED!

If you weren’t already cancelling all your plans for March, Banished Music and Strange News have just gone and added a whole lot more musical mashed potato to your plate with the extraordinary full line-up for Strange Universe: Autumn edition revealed at last!

That’s right, this phenomenal series of shows in your favourite venues across Tāmaki Makaurau just added 200% more phenom! We’ve gone and added three whole new shows into the mix for your troubles, and announced a bunch of pretty incredible support acts!

One of the UK’s most sought after acts, and an NTS Radio regular, Nabihah Iqbal is coming on back to our shores to throw down a late night DJ set to remember at Neck of the Woods! Opening up the night will be the formidable Tāmaki Makaurau-based Iraqi artist and producer Mariam (Hafleh, Sonic Hapori), spinning for all your Maqams and Mawaals, dancehall, dub, and Raï needs!

Making her Aotearoa debut, it’s the soulfully sublime Los Angeles folk artist Annahstasia, praised by The Guardian for her “superbly written, remarkably moving songs, delivered by a singer who knows exactly how to use her vocals to cut the listener deep”. Joining Annahstasia at Pitt Street Methodist Church is local alternative folk favourite Na’amah Cheiban, whose songs resonate with frank vulnerability and aching sincerity.
 
Finally, we are unbelievably honoured to announce the long-awaited return of American folk hero Jolie Holland, back at last to perform at Pitt Street Methodist Church as a very special intimate duo. Jolie’s connection with Aotearoa runs deep, recording a recent collaboration with Theia, and a long-standing friendship and collaboration with our old friend Steve Abel. Speak of the devil, we’ve managed to lure Steve away from the Beehive for one night only, set to perform his first solo show in longer than we care to imagine.
 

But wait… that’s not all! 

Norwegian duo of the moment Smerz have invited the one-and-only Erny Belle to join the bill at Double Whammy for one of her only shows of the season! Smerz are absolutely dominating the world circuit at the moment, and this new addition makes the show truly unmissable.
 
Flying Nun favourite The Bats are celebrating their 2025 already-classic album Corner Coming Up, inviting the wonderful HalfSisteR to open for them at the iconic Hollywood Avondale! HalfSisteR are newly minted, and feature members of Jean-Paul Sartre Experience, Superette, Drorgan, and more!
 
Set to join American psych lord Ty Segall and his scorching band on his grand return are none other than Japan’s most dangerous band, Guitar Wolf! The Powerstation is set to have its foundations put to the test once and for all with this rock’n’roll collision for the ages!
 
Anatolian psych-folk sensation Derya Yıldırım & Grup Şimşek will transform Double Whammy into something truly magical, now with added sorcery thanks to an all-star live incarnation of Noa Records mainstays WAIWHAI.!

Eternally excellent Swedish noise makers Les Big Byrd will be joined by the fiercest trio in the land right now, Sulfate! Reunited, reinvented, and fully reinvigorated, you won’t experience a deeper head trip than a Sulfate show any time soon, and we’re stoked to have them on the bill.
 
“Woah, turns out we’re even more crazy than we were when we thought we were crazy before!”
- Reuben Bonner, CEO of Banished Music
 
Yes, it’s time to ramp things up and really get the party started with this wild line-up of good times. March will never be the same again… And you better believe we are planning Strange Universe WINTER Edition already… 

STELLAR LINEUP ADDITIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS ANNOUNCED FOR CENTRE COURT SOUNDS 2026

Auckland’s most unique summer music experience, Centre Court Sounds, is well and truly back. Following the city’s staple annual ASB Classic, February 21st 2026 will see the Manuka Doctor Arena transform the space into an intimate live music venue for one unforgettable night.

Today’s news sees the addition of three incredible acts to the 2026 lineup, as well as the official partnerships being announced. 

Following the city’s staple annual ASB Classic, Centre Court Sounds returns to theManuka Doctor Arena on February 21st 2026 - transforming the space into an intimate live music venue for one unforgettable night.

Centre Court Sounds is proud to partner with Mānuka Phuel, a New Zealand-made, all-natural energy drink brand known for delivering clean, functional energy using premium local ingredients - making them the perfect presenting partner for the 2026 event.

Piper-Heidsieck Champagne joins as a luxury partner, bringing over two centuries of French champagne excellence and adding a touch of celebration and sophistication to the Centre Court Sounds experience.

Rounding out the lineup, Steinlager, one of New Zealand’s most iconic beer brands, comes on board as a partner, synonymous with quality brewing and great moments shared with friends and live music.

Joining the iconic kiwi pair SACHI, Sydney-based electronic duo Bag Raiders and five-piece alt-rock group NO CIGAR - will be music collective Flamingo Pier (DJ Set), breakout dance powerhouse Bontempo and multi-talented radio host and DJ Sin.

Born in New Zealand and formed in London, Flamingo Pier are a globally recognised dance act at the forefront of contemporary electronic music, blending house, disco, funk, and jazz with live instrumentation and electronic production. The trio - Luke Walker, Dom Jones, and Brad Craig - first gained international attention through releases on Kitsuné and Soundway Records, with their music featured on BBC Radio 1, KEXP, and Netflix, and praised by Rolling Stone as “dancefloor legends.” Their releases have topped charts, surpassed millions of streams, and taken them to major festivals and sold-out shows across Europe, the US, and New Zealand. For Centre Court Sounds, Flamingo Pier will perform as a duo, with Luke and Dom delivering their signature joyful, high-energy live show.

Bonnie, or Bontempo - which translates to “good times” - lives by the music motto “there is no such thing as a guilty pleasure”, and is known for flouting the norm. Her sets are a captivating, dynamic trip through a range of genres, which has made her a favourite for dancers across the nation during her six years DJing. Bontempo has performed at many of Aotearoa’s most esteemed events, with sets at R&A, Splore, Flamingo Pier, Two Minds Festival, R&V, Baseline, and Le Currents, to name a few. Her vast music knowledge is evident in her sets, and her ability to connect to the audience and create a collective energy is unparalleled.

Co-host of George FM Drive, New Zealand’s leading dance and electronic radio show, Sin is a key figure in Aotearoa’s dance music scene and a trusted voice in electronica. Her reputation as a selector has seen her perform at major festivals including Electric Avenue, Rhythm & Vines, Homegrown, Hidden Valley and Hidden Lakes - including Boiler Room sets - and share stages with global heavyweights such as Fatboy Slim, Groove Armada, Solardo, Ewan McVicar and Eli Brown. Her sound has taken her from Fiji’s Your Paradise to international stages in Perth, Miami, the UK and Europe, with standout moments including a four-date Australian tour in 2024 and a six-show UK and European run in 2025 featuring a sold-out headline show at Brixton Jamm and festival slots at Boomtown and Liquicity. Known for building high-energy, dancefloor-first sets spanning house, techno and rave-inspired heaters, Sin brings an electrifying presence to the Centre Court Sounds lineup.

Centre Court Sounds co-creator Harry Gorringe says “Centre Court Sounds is all about covering the court, a full day rallying through genres in the heart of Auckland, with something for everyone in the stands. With Flamingo Pier, Bontempo and SIN joining SACHI, Bag Raiders and No Cigar, it’s a lineup that serves from first ball to match point.” 

General Admission and Premium General Admission tickets are selling fast, and can be found at centrecourtsounds.flicket.co.nz.

Positioned in the heart of late summer - that sweet spot where the weather is warm and the pace of life hasn’t fully accelerated - Centre Court Sounds is designed for guests seeking a final escape before autumn arrives, blending premium live music with a relaxed, sun-soaked atmosphere.

The Manuka Dr Arena will undergo a full transformation, with lush greenery, resort-style landscaping, turf underfoot, and intimate design elements reshaping the iconic venue iboutique summer festival setting. Leading brands will activate across the venue with curated food, bars, tasting experiences, and premium lounges - elevating Centre Court Sounds into one of the country’s standout hospitality-led music events.

The centre-court layout places fans just metres from the stage, delivering unbeatable sightlines and proximity across suites, premium seating, VIP lounges, on-court GA areas, and dedicated hospitality zones. With its central position and non-residential surroundings, Manuka Dr Arena is uniquely positioned for a high-energy summer event - with no noise restrictions and effortless transport options.

Following updates required for ATP regulations during the ASB Classic - including the demolition of the original Robinson Stand - the arena’s redevelopment has created an entirely new opportunity for Centre Court Sounds. For this year’s event, the temporary Robinson stand will be fully repurposed into a bespoke, purpose-built stage, complete with backstage and sidestage lounge spaces reminiscent of the premium tennis environment fans know and love. This redevelopment allows Centre Court Sounds to expand to a 3,000-person capacity, with a configuration tailored specifically for live music.

2026’s Centre Court Sounds will see an atmosphere full of new and improved offerings off the back of a successful first year in operation. Attendees can expect a larger GA footprint on centre court, a reimagined premium hospitality layout, VIP Booths and VIP Lounge experiences inspired by the ASB Classic and a completely new way to experience a live concert inside one of Auckland’s most iconic venues.

GLOBAL SYNTHONY PHENOMENON RETURNS HOME AS MĀNUKA PHUEL SYNTHONY FESTIVAL FINAL LINEUP IS ANNOUNCED

Duco Touring has today revealed the final additions to the Mānuka Phuel SYNTHONY Festival lineup, confirming SYNTHONY artists ahead of the festivals highly anticipated return to Auckland Domain on Saturday 21 March 2026.
 
The announcement comes off the back of an extraordinary 12 months for SYNTHONY globally, cementing the format as one of New Zealand’s most successful music exports. Across 2025 and early 2026, SYNTHONY completed a nine-city European tour (with all but two shows sold out), debuted in North America in Calgary, Canada, and made its U.S. debut in Orlando performing alongside the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. The brand has also just wrapped its fifth Australian tour, culminating in a standout performance on the steps of the Sydney Opera House, welcomed in 2026 as the New Year’s Eve midnight act at Rhythm & Alps, and will make its Middle East debut in Dubai following their flagship event Mānuka Phuel SYNTHONY Festival.
 
Rising pop powerhouse Cassie Henderson, award-winning country-pop star Kaylee Bell, electrifying rock frontwoman Jennie Skulander, and legendary electronic and drum & bass vocalist P Digsss are newly confirmed as the latest vocalists set to take the stage as part of SYNTHONY No.7,  delivering the next evolution of the genre-defying SYNTHONY experience. Fans can also expect the return of beloved SYNTHONY collaborators Sarah-Grace Williams and the Auckland Philharmonia.
 
Also joining the stacked lineup as SYNTHONY artists is Ilan Kidron, Emily Williams, Jujulipps, Lewis McCallum, Nate Dousand and Ventura Black.
These final announcements complete a lineup that spans electronic, live band, DJ, orchestral and vocal performance.

The 2026 festival will additionally see previously announced Faithless (Full Live Band), Peking Duk, Shapeshifter, Kaylee Bell, Nice ’n’ Urlich, Made You Look, Hot Dub Time Machine, The Black Seeds, The Exponents, and the powerful return of SYNTHONY No.7, alongside a full-scale Pepsi DJ Stage featuring Beccie B, Flamingo Pier (DJ Set), Pixie Lane x Kazi Flip, Scary B. Mean, Take Em To Church, and Tim Phin.

“After taking SYNTHONY to stages around the world over the past year, it’s always special to bring it home to Auckland Domain. Mānuka Phuel SYNTHONY Festival remains our biggest event globally, and SYNTHONY No.7 is shaping up to be one of our most ambitious and exciting editions yet,” says David Higgins, Founder of Duco Touring.

The 2025 edition of Mānuka Phuel SYNTHONY Festival saw a sold-out crowd of 40,000, a $1.8 million production, and a 2,000-strong crew, firmly cementing the festival as a cornerstone of the New Zealand summer events calendar.

MĀNUKA PHUEL SYNTHONY FESTIVAL
Saturday 21 March, 2026
Auckland Domain
 
FAITHLESS (FULL LIVE BAND) (UK)
PEKING DUK (AU)
SHAPESHIFTER
SYNTHONY No.7 (NEW SET LIST)
HOT DUB TIME MACHINE (AU)
KAYLEE BELL
MADE YOU LOOK
NICE 'N' URLICH
THE BLACK SEEDS
THE EXPONENTS
 
PEPSI DJ STAGE
BECCIE B
FLAMINGO PIER (DJ SET)
PIXIE LANE X KAZI FLIP
SCARY B. MEAN
TAKE EM TO CHURCH
TIM PHIN
 
SYNTHONY ARTISTS
CASSIE HENDERSON
KAYLEE BELL
P DIGSSS
JENNIE SKULANDER
EMILY WILLIAMS
ILAN KIDRON
JUJULIPPS
LEWIS MCCALLUM
NATE DOUSAND
VENTURA BLACK

Over 25,000 tickets have already sold for the event with less than two months to go. In addition to General Admission (All Ages) tickets, fans can secure Premium GA tickets (18+), Amex VIP Garden, or Amex VVIP Garden all-inclusive options.

To purchase tickets, register for updates, or for more information, go to: SYNTHONY.COM

HELIOS: BREATHTAKING SIX-METRE SUN ART INSTALLATION LANDS IN AUCKLAND FOR THE FIRST TIME

Aucklanders are guaranteed a little extra sunshine this summer, as Auckland Live presents Helios - a breathtaking, larger-than-life artwork created by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Arriving in New Zealand for the first time, Helios is both a scientific wonder and a multi-sensory artwork, offering a rare opportunity to visualise the beauty and complexity of our closest star.

The first chance to catch a glimpse of Helios in Aotearoa will be at the opening night of the brand-new New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) on Thursday 12 February. Following the showing at the NZICC, Helios will move to its week-long home in the Concert Chamber, Auckland Town Hall from Saturday 7 March until Sunday 15 March. Helios will be presented in association with the Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival.

Measuring six metres in diameter and created at a scale of 1:230 million (each centimetre represents 2300km of the sun’s surface), Helios is constructed from approximately 400,000 images of the Sun’s surface. These images combine photography by astrophotographer Dr Stuart Green with data from NASA solar observations. Internally lit, this spherical installation allows for a safe yet awe-inspiring examination of the Sun’s extraordinarily detailed surface, revealing features such as sunspots, spicules and filaments.

Named after the ancient Greek sun god – symbolic of time and life, Helios blends real solar imagery with animated lighting accompanied with an immersive surround-sound composition by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson, resulting in a powerful and unforgettable experience. Exhibition creator Luke Jerram has also produced several other astronomical artworks, including Museum of the Moon, Gaia and Mars.

Director of Auckland Live, Daniel Clarke is thrilled to bring Helios to Aotearoa for the first time, saying:
“Presenting Helios as a free public exhibition reflects our commitment to opening up Auckland’s civic spaces for shared cultural experiences. Bringing an international artwork of this scale into the Auckland Town Hall creates an opportunity for people to come together, slow down and encounter something extraordinary in the heart of the city.”

Viewing of Helios in the Concert Chamber at Auckland Town Hall is free and open to everyone, with no booking required at any time. A programme of associated free events will be announced in the coming weeks.

RHYTHM AND VINES WELCOME IN THE NEW YEAR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This exclusive advance sale will offer:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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