Primus, Queens of the Stone Age & Bryan Adams Announce NZ Tours

The concert calendar has just received a major shake-up with some massive international acts locking in dates for the coming year. Headlining the announcements is a powerhouse show at Auckland's Spark Arena on December 20, 2026, featuring Primus, Queens of the Stone Age, and Tropical Fuck Storm. It is a rare chance to catch three distinct legends of the alternative rock and psychedelic scene on a single stage.

For those who prefer a classic rock anthems, Bryan Adams has confirmed his return to Aotearoa. He will be playing at Auckland's Spark Arena on March 10, 2027, followed by a show at the Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch on March 12.

The club circuit is looking just as busy. Del Amitri are set to bring their pop-rock sound to The Powerstation in Auckland on March 7, 2027. Folk legend Loudon Wainwright III will perform at the James Hay Theatre in Christchurch on February 4, 2027. If you are after something a bit more experimental, Papa M has scheduled dates at Meow in Wellington on October 6 and the Whammy Bar in Auckland on October 7, 2026.

Other notable mentions include:

• Friends playing at Big Fan, Auckland on August 2, 2026.
• Atomic performing at San Fran, Wellington on August 8, 2026.
• Mick Turner hitting Wellington and Auckland in October.
• 2charm bringing their hyperpop set to Double Whammy, Auckland on September 19, 2026.
• Alayna performing at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre in Rotorua on August 15, 2026.

Keep in mind that while there are plenty of local gigs listed like soul at the Point Chevalier Bowling Club or The Mariners at the Ding Dong Lounge, these smaller acts and local covers groups provide a different flavour compared to the major arena tours. Ensure you check ticket availability early for the bigger shows as they are likely to move fast.