Graeme James, Heavy Chest, SLUR, The Splinters & Pool House Announce New Tours
This week’s tour announcements bring a diverse mix of talent to our local stages. From the folk-inspired strings of Graeme James and ambient textures of Heavy Chest, to the high-energy sounds of SLUR, The Splinters, and Pool House, there’s plenty on offer. Check out the latest dates for venues across the country as artists begin scheduling their live appearances for the coming months.
The touring schedule is heating up with a fresh wave of shows announced for the year. Graeme James leads the pack, bringing his multi-instrumental folk background to the Sir Howard Morrison Centre in Rotorua on 29 May. His transition from classical violin to a career in folk and celtic music has built a solid following, and this upcoming date is a key opportunity to catch his live set.
For those looking for something with a more ambient or electronic edge, Heavy Chest is set to perform at The Yard Cafe & Venue in Raglan on 24 April. It is a great spot to catch them in an intimate setting. Meanwhile, SLUR is keeping busy with two dates on the books: they head to 605 Morningside in Auckland on 25 April before playing The Penguin Club in Oamaru on 26 April. Note that there are several bands operating under that name globally, so expect a solid dose of indie-rock energy at these shows.
The garage rock scene is also well-represented, with The Splinters bringing their riot grrrl-inspired sound to Valhalla in Wellington on 24 April. If you prefer your live music with a punk or shoegaze lean, head along to see Pool House at Wunderbar in Christchurch on the same night.
A few other highlights to keep on your radar include LEAO hitting Double Whammy in Auckland on 26 April, and Louisa Nicklin performing at the Anglican Hall in Coromandel on 25 April. For the punks, BnP will be tearing up Space Academy in Christchurch on 25 April.
If you are after something a bit different, the schedule also includes some tribute and covers acts. Rock Tenors have locked in shows at the SBS St James Theatre in Gore and the Ashburton Events Centre, while Tres Hombres are bringing their ZZ Top tribute to A Rolling Stone in Christchurch on 25 April. These shows offer a different vibe compared to the original touring artists but are worth a look if you are after a nostalgic night out. Keep an eye on local venue listings as more details for these dates are finalised.
Gigs discovered this week
Shows added for the week ending Sunday, 26 Apr 2026.
