Get ready for the ultimate weekend of Blues and BBQ in Rotorua

New Zealand BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL 2025

28-30 November

New Zealand’s ultimate celebration of blues music and BBQ returns to Rotorua 28 to 30 November

Tickets go on sale Friday, 28 March for the highly anticipated 2025 New Zealand Blues & BBQ Festival, set to take over Rotorua’s Village Green from 28–30 November. This year’s event is shaping up to be the best yet, with crowd favourites, new flavours, and so much music, food and fun to enjoy.

Returning to the main stage by popular demand is the high-energy Australian trio 19-Twenty, whose electrifying set made them a clear crowd favourite in 2023. Their infectious blend of roots, rock and blues is guaranteed to get festival-goers dancing once again.

Also returning is New Zealand blues legend Grant Haua. Haua brings a powerful presence to the stage with his gritty vocals, soul-touching storytelling, and raw guitar work. A former half of the internationally acclaimed duo Swamp Thing, Haua has carved out a formidable solo career with a sound that’s deeply rooted in blues yet uniquely his own. His performance blends emotional depth with Kiwi authenticity, and his return to the festival is sure to strike a chord with long-time fans and new audiences alike.

Joining again this year is one of New Zealand’s most influential bands, The Human Instinct, known for their explosive fusion of blues, rock, and psychedelic sounds. Led by founding member Maurice Greer, the band continues to captivate audiences with their powerful stage presence and legendary status in Kiwi music history.

This incredible outdoor event, produced by BOP Blues Club Inc and showcasing more than 15 bands, is all about celebrating the depth and soul of blues music while dishing up some of the tastiest BBQ in the country. With Rotorua’s Black Label Barbecue team back again, fans can look forward to smoky, savoury goodness from one of NZ’s top pitmaster teams. Winners of TVNZ’s Cooks on Fire, Shaun and Alia will be serving up the low and slow magic that made them a TV and a festival hit.

The 2025 festival will introduce some exciting new features, including a dedicated BBQ Picnic Spot with more food trucks packed with BBQ-inspired delights, and fun activities for the whole whānau.

Two internationally sanctioned BBQ competitions will be held over the weekend, with expert pitmasters battling it out for glory while festival-goers feast on mouth-watering dishes from a variety of vendors. Those looking to sharpen their own BBQ skills can also enjoy demos, tastings, and classes from some of the best in the business.

The New Zealand Blues & BBQ Festival is family-friendly and designed to appeal to music and food lovers of all ages. It's a celebration of culture, community, and the soulful sound of blues, brought to life in the heart of Rotorua.

Get in quick for early bird tickets, weekend passes, and VIP tickets – all available from Friday, 28 March, at Moshtix. VIP corporate tables for up to 10 people will also be available again this year.

Follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram for artist announcements, giveaways, and festival updates. Or visit www.bluesandbbq.co.nz.

Don’t miss out on a weekend of soul-stirring music, sizzling BBQ, and epic good times!