Are you ready to dive into the captivating world of the Waiheke Jazz & Blues Festival? With an incredible lineup of artists set to grace the stage, both locals and visitors are in for a musical treat like no other. For the schedule of events, locations, ticket information, and more, head over to our events page. Let the music play and the good times roll!
- When: 18th April – 21st April
- Various Artists
- Various Locations
- Check out the Waiheke Local Events page for further information.
Buy Tickets: Official Website
Make the most of your Waiheke Jazz & Blues Festival experience.
Start by securing your tickets and booking your accommodation early to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the action. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious waterfront villa, Waiheke Island offers a range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget
Let’s take a closer look at some of the talented performers who will be lighting up this year’s festival:
1. Annie Crummer
Annie’s voice is known to just about every New Zealander on “For Today” with the Netherworld Dancing Toys and her work with luminaries from Sir Dave Dobbyn through to Sting is massive. Her work on “Language” featuring “See What Love Can Do”, along with “Melting Pot” performed with When The Cat’s Away, are part of New Zealand’s musical heritage. Now performing for the first time on Waiheke with her superb band, we can expect a stunning show.
Good Friday Groove:| Fri 18th April, 12 – 5pm | Buy Tickets
2. Lou’ana
“I love to create music that moves the soul, brings people to dance and liberates the spirit – seeing people connecting and feeling free brings me so much joy.”
Inspired by American blues, funk, soul and disco, Lou’ana infuses nostalgic grooves with her own spirit and stories. Her music has garnered millions of streams on Spotify, and she’s recently opened for the legendary Empress of Soul, Gladys Knight, and chart-breaking artist Teddy Swims.
“It’s a steamy slice of hip-shaking soul and it’s 100 percent addictive” – Happy Mag
Good Friday Groove:| Fri 18th April, 12 – 5pm | Buy Tickets
3. White Chapel Jak
The Good Friday Groove wouldn’t be complete without White Chapel Jak. Their journey is a musical odyssey of friendship, whānau, growth, and aroha – driven by dreams and countless hours of dedication. Dynamic, powerful, and beautifully melodic, WCJ has become one of New Zealand’s most sought-after live acts, captivating audiences across the country.
And we just can’t get enough of them!
Good Friday Groove:| Fri 18th April, 12 – 5pm | Buy Tickets
4. Adrian Cox Trio
“Makin’ Runs,” the latest project by internationally acclaimed clarinetist Adrian Cox, delves into alternative ragtime repertoire from the early jazz era, aiming to capture and express the timeless essence of the music.
The trio endeavours to emulate that spirit, crafting tight yet dynamic arrangements that honour the music’s original intent, allowing ample room for improvisational fire. The program includes compositions by Duke Ellington, Sidney Bechet, Jelly Roll Morton, Barney Bigard and many more.
Jazz Sundowner | Sun 20th April, 2 – 6pm | Buy Tickets
5. Hammond Gamble
Legendary Blues singer songwriter Hammond Gamble’s career spans five decades. In his 1980’s supergroup Street Talk, his distinctive vocals and guitar prowess inspired generations. Renowned for his soulful blues-inspired performances, he has supported many music-industry luminaries, including Tina Turner, Bonnie Raitt, Fleetwood Mac, Joe Cocker and the Eagles. Hammond appears at the festival solo, accompanying himself on guitar. This is a very special opportunity to see Hammond live, on Waiheke!
Blues Revue | Sat 19th April, 12 – 5pm | Buy Tickets
6. Midge Marsdon
Mr. Blues himself, Marsden was a friend of Stevie Ray Vaughan and toured with Vaughan several times, playing harmonica.
His career spans four decades, and during that time he has played thousands of concerts in New Zealand and introduced several generations of New Zealanders to the blues. He was voted New Zealand Entertainer of the Year in 1990, and his 1991 album Burning Rain achieved gold status.
In the 2006 New Year Honours, Marsden was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to music.
Blues Revue | Sat 19th April, 12 – 5pm | Buy Tickets
7. Nairobi Trio
“New Zealand’s favourite Jazz Entertainers”, the Nairobi trio claim to have have played in just about every Vineyard, Village hall, Theatre and Festival in the Country and their international touring has taken them around the World many times, including shows at Raffles Hotel in Singapore, Festival stages in the UK, including the Edinburgh Jazz Festival, Festivals in Norway, Denmark, Germany, Italy and France and throughout Australasia and the Pacific.
Always playing to the crowd, the Nairobi trio showcase skilfully crafted original material, reimagined standards and popular tunes delivered in a dynamic and engaging live show.
Nairobi Trio are Richard Adams (Violin/ vocals), John Quigley (Guitar/ vocals) and Aaron Coddel (Bass/ vocals).
Jazz Long Lunch | Mon 21st April, 1 – 4pm | Buy Tickets
8. WBB Bigband
Twenty talented musicians make up WBB bigband, one of Auckland’s premium big bands. Led by powerhouse vocalists Jennifer Eirena and Peter Glynn, they combine a driving rhythm section with a spectacular 13-piece horn lineup. Their versatile repertoire spans from Bruno Mars, Santana to the Motown Classics of Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye to Michael Bublé and Glenn Miller. Whether you’re a fan of classic swing, blues, or contemporary grooves, WBB bigband guarantees a show that entertains every audience.
Good Friday Groove:| Fri 18th April, 12 – 5pm | Buy Tickets
9. George Washingmachine
While George has previously enchanted Waiheke with his jazz performances, he now returns with his premiere island blues show. Joined by the versatile Clare O’Meara (accordion, violin, vocals), George brings his “Blues Rinse” album to life with guitar and powerful vocals.
Jazz Long Lunch | Mon 21st April, 1 – 4pm | Buy Tickets
10. Big Tasty
One of the true finds of the 2024 festival, we invited Big Tasty back this year.
Bringing a big brassy sound this electrifying 8-piece funk and soul band that captivates audiences with their unique blend of classic funk and soul and Jazz-inspired melodies. A great way to wind up the Jazz Sundowner at Goldie Estate.
Jazz Sundowner | Sun 20th April, 2 – 6pm | Buy Tickets
11. The Madeleines
The Madeleines are a vintage vocal trio specializing in jazz, swing and Old Hollywood Glamour! In this show filled with timeless tunes and gorgeous harmonies, these ladies will pay homage to many of the greatest stars from the golden era; including Marilyn Monroe, Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra and Irving Berlin. Let’s get glam!
Jazz Sundowner | Sun 20th April, 2 – 6pm | Buy Tickets
12. The Lightning Brothers
Nigel Gavin (Guitar), Neil Billington (Harmonica) and Neil Finlay (Guitar and Vocals) tear down the house with their soaring guitars, screaming Harmonica and deft attention to the Blues idiom – breathing life back into the old classics, weaving their virtuosity throughout.
Blues Revue | Sat 19th April, 12 – 5pm | Buy Tickets
13. The Flaming Mudcats
A passionate blues band from Auckland, New Zealand, The Flaming Mudcats captivate audiences with their eclectic blend of Blues influences and slick arrangements. Encompassing mainly blues, but delving into soul, funk, and jazz at times, their live performances demonstrate real passion and commitment to roots music. A great live band. Not to be missed!
Blues Revue | Sat 19th April, 12 – 5pm | Buy Tickets
14. Boplicity
Wellington-based jazz guitarist Lockie Bennett brings his acclaimed “Boblicity” Trio to Waiheke on Monday 21 April. A rising star of New Zealand jazz, Bennett and his virtuosic trio combine stunning musicianship with graceful artistry.
Jazz is in good hands with these remarkable young musicians.
Jazz Long Lunch | Mon 21st April, 1 – 4pm | Buy Tickets
With such a diverse lineup of talent, the Waiheke Jazz Festival is set to be a highlight of the year for music lovers everywhere. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, funk, soul, or rock, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this incredible event.
Gather your friends, grab your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of the Waiheke Jazz & Blues Festival!
