Your NZ Music Month Guide

1-31 May 2025

Dates

1-31 MAY, 2025

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, and 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.

Mighty | 27 May - 1 Jun

Step into Mighty - a 10-foot container transformed into an intimate theatre in the heart of Te Komititanga. With a ticket booth, red carpet, and velvet-draped interior, this pocket-sized venue sets the stage for unforgettable one-song performances.

The lineup is stacked with some of Aotearoa’s most talented musicians, but there’s a twist—you won’t know who you’re seeing until you step inside. With space for just a handful of people at a time, Mighty offers a rare, up-close encounter with live music in its purest form. Line up, step in, and experience the magic of music in a whole new way.

Music In The City Centre | All month, various times

Local talent is taking over the streets with live performances every Wednesday and Friday afternoon in the city. Catch 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.

Light Box Exhibition | 1–20 May

Check out a shortlist of photographs submitted for the 2024 Aotearoa Music Photography Award! This exhibition features stunning works from both professional and amateur photographers, capturing the energy and diversity of music events across Aotearoa and abroad. Showcasing a multitude of genres and styles, the photographs are presented on outdoor lightboxes in Te Komititanga Square.

While you're in midtown be sure to check out: JB Hi-Fi, Marbecks, Holiday Records, Pat Menzies, Trainers Skateboarding, Guitar Gallery, Dangerfield.

Image credit: Auckland Council

Rhythm Nation with Te Whare Kairoi | Every Saturday in May, 11am - 12pm

Join us every Saturday in May at Te Wharekura and surrounding Te Wānanga for a vibrant, interactive performance celebrating Māori music and movement as part of NZ Music Month. Led by Te Whare Karioi, from the heart of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, these free, whānau-friendly events invite you to connect with Tāmaki Makaurau’s rich whakapapa through live performance and hands-on experiences. Feel the pulse of the haka, hear the call of ancient instruments, and move to the rhythm of poi.

The Sounds of the City: How Music Shapes a Thriving Auckland | The Civic | 20 May, 5 – 7:30pm

NZ Music Month x Auckland Conversations have facilitated a panel discussion with key music industry leaders about the influential role music has in shaping our city. From cultural growth to energising the economy, music is more than just entertainment – it's a catalyst for change.

Panel speakers include Dan Bali, Ladyhawke, Malcolm Lakatani, Lucy Macrae and Gene Rivers. MC’d by award-winning broadcaster Charlotte Ryan and featuring a special performance from singer-songwriter TEMA from 5pm, before the panel commences.

FromThePit | Spark Arena | 06 - 30 May | 7-8pm daily

This year, the Fan Studio video will be screened outside Spark Arena during May for NZ Music Month, playing 7-8pm daily. May not be playing during show days.