Live at Lula's comes to life every Thursday, Friday and Saturday with bands and DJ's taking the stage til late
It’s time to turn up the volume and celebrate our local sounds this May in the city centre! This New Zealand Music Month, the city centre is the place to be, with an exciting lineup of free live performances, outdoor gigs, talks with industry leaders, morning raves and a vibrant Midtown Street Party.
From soulful tunes to opera classics, from homegrown favourites to fresh emerging gems, there’s something for every music lover. Whether you’re catching a live band at an iconic music store, experiencing the magic of opera in the Strand Arcade, or soaking up the electric energy of the Midtown Street Party, it’s all about celebrating the creativity and diverse sounds that make Auckland, a proud UNESCO City of Music, so unique. Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the pulse of NZ’s music scene this May.
Midtown Street Party | 15 May, 5–9pmÂ
This street party for everyone with fresh tracks and the best of Auckland’s homegrown musicians on repeat. Celebrate with live DJs spinning slick beats in the Strand, an epic merch market and a rare exhibition of archival photography from some of NZ's most popular artists from the 80's to present day.
Opera in the Strand | 1 May, 6–9pmÂ
After a successful debut in 2024, this free event will feature top New Zealand opera singers performing in the historic Strand Arcade, with no tickets or bookings needed. Enjoy the glorious colour, costumery and melody in this iconic setting.
Music in the city centre |Â All Month, various times
Local talent is taking the streets with live performances every Wednesday and Friday afternoon in the city. Catch rock classics from Rumpus Machine outside JB Hi-Fi and smooth jazz tones from Joe Kaptain and Fruju Peak in Vulcan Lane. New Zealand bands will play in Real Groovy and local singer-songwriters will pop up across Elliott Street, Wellesley Street, Queen Street and more. Join on Wednesdays and Fridays 12 – 1:30pm and 4:30 – 6pm.
While your in midtown be sure to check out: JB Hi-Fi, Marbecks, Holiday Records, Pat Menzies, Trainers Skateboarding, Guitar Gallery, Dangerfield.  Â
Image credit: Auckland CouncilÂ
Enjoy music-filled experiences
Music performances this May
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Last updated:
22 April 2024