Beyond the mainstream, NZ hosts a plethora of underground festivals that cater to the diverse tastes of music, art, and adventure enthusiasts. In this article, we delve into the exhilarating world of underground festivals in NZ. Join us as we explore these hidden gems and discover the extraordinary experiences they have to offer:
1. Aum Festival
30 December 2026–2 January 2027 · Official updates
AUM New Year’s Festival is a camping, music and arts festival held north of Auckland. Famous for its friendly, inclusive vibes and themed nights, AUM takes place over three nights/four days. Attention to sound, visuals, lights and decor are second to none at AUM with the four stages being recreated each year. Performance and visual arts include circus and cabaret shows and multiple immersive art installations. AUM has family-friendly art, circus, play, wellness and workshops, and a huge campground nestled in a Kānuka forest.
2. Shipwrecked Festival
12–14 February 2027 · Official updates
A boutique music and arts event filled with love, takes place in a picturesque landscape nestled between three lakes, not far from the vibrant city of Auckland and the golden beaches of the North. The festival site at Te Arai has been meticulously curated over the years to create a breathtaking playground for attendees. Drawing inspiration from the global festival scene while embracing a distinctly Kiwi atmosphere, Shipwrecked Festival provides a gathering where people can unite, revel in underground music, indulge in visual and interactive art, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and life itself.
3. Earth Beat Festival
No 2026 edition; return date unannounced · Official updates
Earth Beat’s organisers confirmed that the festival would not take place in 2026. A return date has not been announced; follow the official website for news.
4. Kiwiburn
27 January–1 February 2027 · Official updates
Kiwiburn is a regional Burning Man event held in New Zealand, where participants come together to create a vibrant community that embraces the principles of inclusion, radical self-expression, gifting, participative art and culture, fostering an atmosphere of creativity, connection, and collective celebration.
5. Taniwha’s Den
6–8 February 2027 · Official updates
Taniwha’s Den is an annual music, dance and light festival which has evolved into a very special experience for the hosts, volunteers and attendees since the first Den in 2010. It is also the name of the remarkable place where the festival is held: a natural wonder, nestled within a private property in Hinakura, Martinborough, New Zealand, which is named after its legendary creator, the Pahaoa Taniwha.
6. Camp A Low Hum
19–21 & 26–28 February 2027 · Official updates
We’re really going underground now with this one. A Low Hum evolved from a record label I started called HUM in 2001 into a music magazine in 2003 called A Low Hum. Since then the name has been used for band management, booking, tour management, festivals, making music videos, publishing books, events, a magazine, a label and more. Check them out!
7. Lunasa Festival
No 2026 edition; 2027 dates to be confirmed · Official updates
Formerly Luminate Festival, Lunasa is a celebration of music, art, sustainability, and culture. Held in the Golden Bay region, the festival offers a unique camping experience in a stunning natural setting. Visitors can enjoy a range of workshops, performances, and activities that promote environmental sustainability and community building.
8. NZ Spirit Festival
Next dates not verified — check organiser announcements · Official updates
A wellness festival like no other. NZ Spirit places a high level of value on creating a wholesome festival vibe with a zero alcohol policy. It hosts a large range of workshops and healing stalls. Located about 1 hour north of Auckland, this festival is a great retreat from the big smoke. Head up for the weekend or for the day!
Any Others?
Feel free to drop us a line at info@nzfestivals.com if you think there are some that we missed. Dates checked 28 October 2026. Where a new edition has not been confirmed, check the organiser’s announcement before booking.
Mauri ora!
