In the beautiful tapestry of New Zealand's cultural landscape, music festivals have woven their own extraordinary tales, leaving behind a vibrant legacy as diverse as the nation itself. From the early days when rock bands found their groove amidst the groves of Redwood 70 in 1970 to the resounding echoes of the Great Ngaruawahia Music Festival in 1973, these amazing outdoor rock spectacles marked the beginning of an exciting era, uplifting the spirits of everyone who gathered. However, it was the legendary Nambassa rock music festival of 1979 that stole the spotlight as the grandest and most enchanting of its time, casting its spell upon the breathtaking Golden Valley, nestled just north of Waihi.

In the welcoming embrace of Aotearoa's musical soul, jazz, folk, ethnic, and country melodies have discovered their cherished home within dedicated awards and beloved festivals that have stood the test of time. Sweetwaters Music Festivals, Nambassa, and The Big Day Out have graced the stages with resplendent magnificence, their rhythms blending harmoniously with the very spirit of the land since the groovy 1970s. These grand gatherings serve as firm testaments to the nation's unwavering love for rock music, bringing people from all walks of life together in joyous celebration.

Amidst this vibrant symphony, a unique note emerges, resonating with spiritual significance—the Parachute Music Festival. Once standing tall as one of New Zealand's grandest music festivals, its melodious vibes echoed throughout the Southern Hemisphere, captivating hearts and minds. Sadly, on that fateful day, March 27, 2014, a heartfelt announcement echoed through the digital realm as Parachute Music bid farewell to its beloved festival. Yet, its presence had left an indelible mark on the hearts of many, forever woven into the rich fabric of New Zealand's rock music heritage.

Nambassa 1979, frozen in time, stands as the pinnacle of New Zealand's majestic rock spectacles. Nearly 60,000 souls converged upon its hallowed grounds, earning it the well-deserved title of the world's largest music festival of its kind per capita. But Nambassa's legacy goes beyond mere numbers, for it encapsulated the very essence of a nation's spirit. It transformed into a sprawling campsite where dreams intertwined, a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors and laughter that illuminated even the darkest of nights. It became the pulsating heartbeat of a joyous party, an ecstatic celebration of unity and cultural richness. Through its resounding success, Nambassa carved its name as an immortal legend within New Zealand's storied rock music landscape.

As the symphony of New Zealand's music festivals continues to resound, each note, each stage, and each gathering finds a special place in the hearts of those who have danced beneath the starlit skies. They stand as everlasting testimonies to the indomitable spirit of a nation that finds solace, joy, and unity in the transformative power of rock music. Let the melodies reverberate through the valleys and hills, forever celebrating the intricate tapestry of New Zealand's vibrant and diverse cultural heritage.

Among these cherished events, we discover remarkable moments that have shaped the festival landscape. The Great Ngaruawahia Music Festival witnessed memorable incidents, from the captivating stage presence of Corben Simpson, who fearlessly shed his clothes, to the fiery spectacle created by Black Sabbath, as they ignited a cross atop the hill, guiding the entire audience to light their matches together. Hinuera experienced the enchanting magic of Mother Goose, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to witness


The Great Ngaruawahia Music Festival