Live Nation Entertainment has bought a controlling interest in New Zealand’s Rhythm and Vines Festival.
Held annually, Rhythm and Vines is one of New Zealand’s biggest music and camping festivals and an iconic New Year’s event.
Given their time zone, New Zealanders are among the first to ring in the new year.
Founded in 2003, the three-day festival is set among wineries in the coastal town of Gisborne. It has played host to a number of big headliners over the years including Public Enemy, Moby, LCD Soundsystem, Wiz Khalifa, Bastille and Chance the Rapper, and last year’s line-up boasted big names such as Schoolboy Q, Mura Masa, 2manydjs, A-Trak, Baauer and Giggs.
“Over the course of 15 years, Rhythm and Vines has curated a wonderful line up of both domestic and international talent in one of the most beautiful parts of our country. It has become a household name in New Zealand and we’re excited to be adding the festival to the Live Nation portfolio and welcoming its experienced team to the company,” said Live Nation New Zealand Chairman, Stuart Clumpas.
“Rhythm and Vines has become a household name in New Zealand and we’re excited to be adding the festival to the Live Nation portfolio and welcoming its experienced team to the company.”
Stuart Clumpas, Live Nation
“By joining forces with the global leaders in entertainment, Live Nation, we can ensure our long-term vision for the event and continue to grow the festival. This partnership will allow us to attract the very best acts, delivering a unique festival experience in New Zealand,” said Kieran Spillane, CEO of Rhythm and Vines Festival.
Hamish Pinkham, co-founder of Rhythm and Vines added: “From humble beginnings, Rhythm and Vines has always tried to do justice to being the first celebration in the world to bring in the new year. Over 15 years we have grown the event to become a world-class three day festival. This partnership will ensure this legacy continues and I’m excited for the future of the festival with our partners at Live Nation.”
With its investment in Rhythm and Vines Festival, Live Nation is further strengthening its position in the New Zealand market, following the majority acquisition of Auckland’s 12,000 capacity Spark Arena (formerly Vector Arena) in 2016. In 2015, Live Nation partner C3 Presents also expanded its marquee festival Austin City Limits to New Zealand with Auckland City Limits.
Clumpas adds: “Live Nation’s involvement further highlights the growing maturity and health of the New Zealand live entertainment market. There has been the long-held view that we’re an extension of the Australian touring market, when in fact New Zealand delivers unique experiences, and Live Nation, as a global player, recognises and invests in that.”Music Business Worldwide
