New Zealand music industry announces 2026 summits and festivals

New Zealand's music industry is preparing for two major upcoming events. The Going Global Music Summit 2026 is scheduled for August 27–28 in Auckland. The summit's programme includes a keynote by Mirik Milan, co-founder of VibeLab, regarding the cultural and economic impact of nightlife. The event will also feature discussions on music export opportunities, including a panel with political parties regarding support for the sector ahead of the 2026 election.

Additionally, the Eyegum Music Collective has announced the Great Sounds Great 2026 festival, taking place in Wellington on September 5. The festival will feature a diverse lineup including Bic Runga and Beastwars, and will be preceded by a mini-festival titled ‘The Night Before’ in Newtown on September 4. The event utilizes multiple venues across the city, including the new Meow Nui space.