Bevan Gardiner, Marian Burns and many more!

From August 7–9, 2026, the Bay of Islands will come alive with rhythm, reflection and celebration as the Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival marks an extraordinary milestone: 40 years of music by the sea.

What began in the mid-1980s as a small, community-driven gathering has grown into one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most loved and enduring music festivals. For four decades, the festival has woven jazz, blues and related roots music into the fabric of winter in the Far North, drawing artists and audiences together against the stunning natural backdrop of the Bay of Islands.

The 2026 festival is more than a weekend of performances—it is a celebration of legacy, resilience and the power of live music to connect people across generations and cultures. Over three days, more than 30 bands will perform across six venues, transforming Paihia and surrounding areas into a walkable, listenable celebration of sound. From intimate club sets to high-energy headline shows, the festival continues its tradition of offering something for everyone.

At the heart of the weekend is Scenic Hotel, proudly serving as Festival HQ. Long a cornerstone of the event, Scenic Hotel will host key performances, late-night jams and moments of reunion as musicians, locals and visitors gather to share stories from festivals past and dreams for festivals still to come. It’s a fitting hub for a festival built on hospitality, collaboration and community spirit.

The 40th anniversary lineup reflects the festival’s global outlook and deep local roots. International artists such as Australia’s powerhouse blues singer Minnie Marks and China’s Chihiro + Route 14 Band bring fresh energy and global perspectives, while New Zealand favourites like the Nairobi Trio remind audiences why homegrown talent has always been central to the festival’s identity. Alongside these names, dozens of artists—emerging and established—will fill the town with music from afternoon through to late night.

One of the defining features of the Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival has always been its accessibility and atmosphere. With a dedicated shuttle bus running between venues, audiences can move easily from show to show, enjoying the music without worrying about transport. The result is a relaxed, welcoming festival experience that encourages discovery—of new artists, new sounds and new connections.

Reaching 40 years is no small feat, particularly in the ever-changing landscape of live events. The festival’s longevity is a testament to the passion of its organisers, volunteers, sponsors and loyal audiences, many of whom have been attending for decades. It is also a tribute to the musicians who have graced its stages over the years, helping shape the festival’s reputation as a place where artists are respected, audiences are engaged and music is celebrated in its purest form.

As the festival looks back on its rich history, it also looks forward. The 2026 edition honours tradition while embracing the future, continuing to evolve while staying true to the spirit that launched it 40 years ago. It remains a festival defined not just by who plays on stage, but by the shared experience—music drifting through winter air, conversations sparked between sets, and the unmistakable feeling of being part of something special.

From August 7–9, 2026, the Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival invites everyone—longtime supporters and first-time visitors alike—to raise a glass, tap a foot and celebrate 40 years of unforgettable music by the sea.