Step into a vibrant celebration brought to life with true New Orleans flair, where every corner of the Village buzzes with music, colour, and creativity. Whether you’re a longtime jazz lover or simply looking for a brilliant day out, the Jazz Village sets the scene for unforgettable experiences from the moment you arrive.

Outdoors, the revelry spills into the streets as music fills the Village Square, where a lively outdoor stage showcases unique, fun acts that get everyone dancing. Relax on the lawn in front of the Main Stage and soak up the sounds of international jazz stars, incredible local musicians, and very special national performers. Inside our newly added concert spaces, you’ll discover intimate, captivating shows,fresh, inventive, and truly world-class, bringing another dynamic layer to this year’s musical journey.

Take your time to wander through the funky boutique shops, explore the bustling aisles of artisan market stalls, and browse the beloved Markets. Choose from a delicious range of food trucks, enjoy refreshing drinks including wine and beer, and settle in for a full day of live music and good vibes. With fun activities for kids, a welcoming atmosphere for all ages, and the unmistakable spirit of New Orleans around every corner, it’s the perfect day out with family and friends.

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This year we have some extra special performances.

Benjamin J. Shepherd is back in New Zealand after being in Los Angeles for many years pursuing a full time music career. Benjamin was fortunate enough to become one of the most versatile and in demand bassists on the Los Angeles music scene while residing there. His studio and live credits include: Peter Erskine, Billy Childs, Steve Weingart, Dave Weckl, Mike Stern, Chance the Rapper, Isaiah Rashad, Lee Ritenour, Joe LaBarbara, Dave Grusin, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, Terra Deva and many more. And guess what….Terra Deva will be singing with him – You don’t want to miss Benjamin and his band of great players, which includes Nick Granville – Guitar, Hikurangi Schaverien-Kaa – Drums and Terra Deva – Vocals. This is truly one not miss!

La Tina will be exploring the intersection of Latin rhythm and contemporary jazz, with special guest and trumpet extraordinaire, Geoff Culverwell.

Saelyn Guyton (Ngāi Tahu) holds a unique space in Aotearoa’s music scene with emotionally charged performances and songwriting. Her voice fuses country, soul, jazz, hip hop and blues, into a sound that’s rich, expressive, and unmistakably her own.

With roots in Argentina and a home base in Mount Maunganui, Drosan brings its signature blend of groove, improvisation, and spontaneity — now celebrating the release of its first vinyl record. Join them and share this next chapter of their journey on stage.

The Mojo Masters, a compact powerhouse delivering a superb sound, are precisely the high-energy blues outfit needed to electrify the village atmosphere. This dynamic quartet, packs a punch far beyond their numbers, weaving intricate harmonies and driving rhythms that capture the authentic spirit of the blues.

And make sure to see Jan Preston, Tommy David with Free Status, The Den and Vogon on The Village Square Stage.

Our exclusive indoor concerts include:

VIBE SOCIETY AT THE CINEMA

Vibe Society are a locally based piano trio who take a modern approach to jazz, blending modernism with tradition. The band selects either jazz standards or contemporary tunes that “vibe” with audiences and engage listeners.

The band is composed of Alana Turmaine (Piano) Leith Milson (Bass) and Steve Mills (Drums)

OSCAR LAVËN: MUSIC OF NEW ORLEANS

Dynamic saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist Oscar Lavën, originally raised right here in Tauranga, returns to join forces with a special lineup of Bay Of Plenty all-star musicians (and maybe even some special guests) to present a performance of the enchanting, foot-stomping traditional jazz of New Orleans, made famous by Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet and many more. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind reunion performance.

MICHAEL CRAWFORD

Kiwi by birth, global by groove, Michael Crawford is a Sydney-based keyboardist, MD, saxophonist, and producer who has held down residencies at iconic venues like Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London, toured the UK with Sounds of the Supremes and shared stages and studios with artists linked to Rick Astley, Rag & Bone Man, Gabrielle and Rita Ora to name a few. See his show at The Jazz Village’s Balcony Room. You’ll love it!

BEN FERNANEZ – “YATRA”

While at the Jazz Village, visit The Jam Factory, where The Ben Fernandez trio will present ‘Yatra’ , a concert of jazz music influenced by musical cultures and styles from different parts of the world. Some tunes from Ben’s latest trio album will be featured. Every song is influenced by travel, people, places and experiences. Join us on our ‘Yatra’ – our Journey.

These Indoor Concerts are $12 at the door of each of the venues on the day. Note, you will still need to purchase a Jazz Village ticket for $20/$25/$28 and pay for the concert fee as well to gain access to these concerts. ($10-online with a Jazz Village ticket).