Liven up your afternoons with local singer-songwriters and emerging New Zealand bands cropping up across Elliott Street, Wellesley Street, Queen Street and more.
Coming up:
Friday 9 May | Vulcan Lane | 4:30–6pm | Joe Kaptein and Band
Drawing influence from the adventurous mid-70s era of celestial jazz-funk by the likes of Donald Byrd and Ramsey Lewis, as well as lounge lizards such as Burt Bacharach and Ennio Morricone, Auckland-based pianist and composer Joe Kaptein presents some fresh original sounds brought to life with the able support of the band - as well as a handful of obscure covers thrown in.
Wednesday 14 May | Queen St Entrance of The Strand Arcade | 12–1:30pm | Manuela
Auckland-based singer-songwriter and lead singer of Big Tasty, Manuela brings a soulful session of her own original songs with beautiful renditions of her favourite pop hits.
Friday 16 May | Marbecks, 34 Queen Street | 2–5pm | DJ Taite
For your listening pleasure, drop into Marbecks and catch DJ Taite bringing the groove to Queens Arcade with an all-vinyl mix of soul, funk, and disco. With a fun and fluid style, DJ Taite keeps the energy high and the vibes right. From deep cuts to dance floor anthems, every set is a journey through rhythm and soul.
Come into Marbecks and view their huge range of NZ Artists this Music Month.
Friday 16 May | Real Groovy, 19 Victoria Street West | 6-7.15pm
6–6:30pm: Bub
Priya Sami is a musician and an absolute fixture of the Karangahape Road scene. Bub unwraps a gift-pack of grungy new wave hooks and turbulent emotions on hyper-catchy new single “Phase 2”.
6:45–7:15pm: George Villa
Hamilton-born George Villa burst onto the scene with his infectious debut single, “Running Free”. Now based in Auckland, George Villa has quickly gained attention from well-known producers Dave Hammer (Lime Cordiale, Baker Boy) and Neil Macleod (Drax Project). Villa’s subsequent EP, Empty Pockets, features laid-back and groovy surf rock tracks, enriched by smooth verses from his good friend and local rapper and producer Rhys Rich.
Wednesday 21 May | The Atrium, Elliott Street | 12–1:30pm | Joshua Duting
Josh Duting is a versatile 20-year-old multi-instrumentalist, skilled in guitar, violin, piano, vocals, and more. His talents have led him to work with various artists and contribute to numerous studio projects. Beyond studio work, Josh is an accomplished violinist who has played with renowned orchestras and supported emerging artists like Alex Beattie and Kain Sining.
Friday 23 May | Queen Street Entrance of The Strand Arcade | 12–1:30pm | Mema Wilda
Mema Wilda is a Sāmoan musician, songwriter and singer now based in Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland. Mema Wilda’s music is created on the salutations of fear, anger and sadness in balance with faith, hope and love. Her melodies and lyrics are inspired by a deep acknowledgment of her feelings and life experiences. Mema’s voice is simply angelic. Soft yet strong and pure.
Friday 23 May | 95 Queen Street | 4–6pm, | NZ Boutique Music Makers Salon at the Guitar Gallery
The Guitar Gallery, Aotearoa’s premier boutique guitar shop, is renowned for featuring a curated collection of small-batch, artisan Kiwi-built gear—from high-end guitars and effects pedals to hand-wound pickups. They're hosting a special in-person meet-up with these talented builders, complete with product demos, a Q&A session, and more. Swing by their Auckland shop, tucked away on Exchange Lane just off Queen St, and meet the makers behind the gear.
Friday 23 May | outside JB Hi-Fi | 4:30–6pm | Rumpus Machine
Rumpus Machine is a band of teenage brothers and sisters based in Torbay on the North shore of Auckland. They pride themselves in performing top-class covers of the most epic classic rock songs in history from the 50’s to the 90’s – all while writing guitar-based original rock music of their own.
Wednesday 28 May | Vulcan Lane | 4:30–6pm | Fruju Peak
Formed in early 2022, Fruju Peak have been busily creating and experimenting within Jazz. They draw inspiration from psychedelic music in its different forms, and they aim to present a cohesive blend of their own original compositions.
Friday 30 May | Real Groovy, 19 Victoria Street West | 4:30–6pm
6–6:30pm: Lucian Rice
Aotearoa/New Zealand-born and based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Lucian Rice continues to showcase his ability to blend nu-gaze, dream pop, and alternative rock into a mesmerising sonic experience.
