Music in the city centre

Local talent is taking the streets with live performances every Wednesday and Friday afternoon in the city. 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 4:30 – 6pm, Vulcan Lane: 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 12 – 1:30pm, Queen Street entrance of The Strand Arcade: 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 2 – 5pm, Marbecks, 34 Queen Street: 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 6 - 8pm, Real Groovy, 19 Victoria Street West:

6 – 6:30pm: Bub
As a self-proclaimed “doo-wop punk band”, Bub is equal parts reminiscent of their influences and a trailblazer for a new kind of genre-fusion. Fronted by Priya Sami (vocals/guitar) and joined by Daniel Barrett (bass), David Harris (drums), and Joe Kaptein (synthesizers), the band creates a brutally honest sonic experience- with vocals to match. Their music commands attention both live and on record, carving out a distinct niche in the Aotearoa music scene.

6:45 – 7:15pm: George Villa
With a mellow presence and an ear for genre fusion, George VILLA has crafted a sound entirely his own. Drawing from a wide range of influences- from Bob Dylan and The Beatles to King Krule and Ocean Alley- George VILLA champions surf rock with a soulful, personal twist. With an unforgettable vocal tone, he’s a songwriter who perfectly suits the fun, cheeky energy that resonates with Aotearoa’s musical culture. 

7:30 – 8pm: Phoebe Rings
Perfecting dream-pop with style, Aotearoa is lucky to have a band like Phoebe Rings. Originally the solo project of bandleader Crystal, the group evolved into an ‘indie supergroup’ featuring Simeon (Lucky Boy, Princess Chelsea), Alex (Tiny Ruins, A.C. Freezy), and Ben. Aotearoa’s very own Fab Four take listeners on a synth-pop journey that’s meticulously crafted, polished, and entrancing.

Wednesday 21 May 12 – 1:30pm, The Atrium, Elliott Street: Joshua Duting

Josh Duting is a versatile 20-year-old multi-instrumentalist, skilled in guitar, violin, piano, vocals, and more. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Popular Music at the University of Auckland, Josh has built a name in the music industry as a dedicated session musician and collaborator. 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. His experience includes performing at weddings and Filipino cultural events across New Zealand, showcasing his range and adaptability.

With his debut EP, Always and Forever, set to release in late May next year, Josh continues to shape his career, bringing fresh sounds to the RnB and pop landscape.

Friday 23 May 12 – 1:30pm, Queen Street entrance of The Strand Arcade: 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 4 – 6pm, Guitar Gallery, 95 Queen Street: 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 4:30 – 6pm outside JB Hi-Fi, 126 Queen Street: 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 4:30 – 6pm, Vulcan Lane: 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.

Fruju Peak are simultaneously the question, the answer, and the process of finding though at times; failing. Come jam!

Friday 30 May 6 - 8pm, Real Groovy, 19 Victoria Street West:

6 – 6:30pm: Lucian Rice
As a multi-instrumentalist and exceptional producer, Lucian Rice’s newly formed solo project establishes him as a rising force in Aotearoa’s alternative music scene. Candid and raw, Lucian’s sound is driven by distorted guitars, charming riffs, and pristine production. He crafts an exhilarating, high-octane alt-rock experience, with a distinct sonic identity. 

6:45 – 7:15pm Awning
Christian Dimick (Recitals, Avant-Glass, Desperate Models) is widely accepted as one of our country’s most expressive guitar players, and perhaps our most underrated. He’ll often be hidden away in his studio, working on new music or paintings in secret. You’ll have seen this gentle giant play before in a number of groups, though Awning is the band you’ll catch him playing with these days.

7:30 – 8pm: Saltwater Criminals
Saltwater Criminals are an indie-rock band with a bright, stirring sound, made up of Scottie, Damin (Awning), Louis (Daffodils), and Mitch (Office Dog). Known for their infectious choruses, frank lyrics, and lively riffs, each member shines within the band. Their live shows have earned them a reputation as one of the most exciting bands to watch.

Various dates 9pm – 12am, Father Ted's Original Irish Pub, 1 Wellesley Street West

Looking for great live music? Visit Father Ted’s for tunes from Eddie Gaiger, James Harrghy, The Paperbacks Shae Snell and more.

Line up changes weekly, visit here for set times and details.