Artists at Festival One 2026

“For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). Come join Aaron and Emma Falconer as they present their project ‘Come and Know Me,’ a moving 35-minute musical experience that shares God’s story of redemption from the Fall to Jesus’ return. The eight songs step through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ with Scriptures interspersed to link the redemptive story. Whether you’ve never heard the Gospel, or heard it 1000 times, Aaron and Emma’s prayer is that their music would refresh and remind you anew of the extravagant love of God.

Activate Music was born out of the creative heartbeat of Activate Church — a natural extension of their expression of faith and worship. With a long-standing call to write and release songs that inspire and transform lives, their mission is to serve both their local church and the nation. Through music, production, video - they are committed to sharing the good news and bringing glory to God.

Just some friends who love to worship Jesus together.

4 lads from Hams, NZ. We make music, and we love it.

24-year-old independent artist Avya is earning her place in Aotearoa's music scene one song at a time. Avya's single "You Don't Get It" gained nationwide success, spending several weeks on the Hot NZ Singles Chart, while her previous track "Green" was featured on curated playlists by Spotify and Apple Music. Since placing fifth on TVNZ's Popstars, she has been a 3-time NZ On Air funding recipient, opened for artists like Jeremy Redmore and Georgia Lines, and expanded her catalogue of original material in collaboration with renowned songwriters and producers, including Joseph Faris, Noema Te Hau and Joel Jones. Avya's new 3-track EP, "She", is a deeply reflective exploration of relationships, generational patterns, and grief. The opening track, "My Love", sets the tone with its foot-stomping folk-pop energy, offering a message of self-worth wrapped in infectious hooks. The title track, "She", challenges harmful generational cycles, while "The Hurt Don't Sleep" closes the EP with a tender exploration of grief, leaving listeners with a raw and honest emotional resonance.

A group of young Kiwi fellas with a bit of rhythm have gone viral for creating a beat using what most of us would keep in the garage. Going by the name Beatstreet, the five drummers - Noah, Daniel, Tristan, Elliot, and Lucas - have shared just 13 videos since April and already racked up a whopping 11.5 million views. Their latest video, which has clocked 2.8 million views in just 24 hours, shows the drumline using their unconventional drums - classic Mitre 10 bright orange buckets - to bang along to Macklemore’s hit track ‘Can’t Hold Us’.

Bethany Edmonds is a worship leader/songwriter from Auckland, New Zealand, whose music comes from simply a deep love for Jesus. With a heart to write to Jesus, for Jesus, and about Jesus, her songs are an overflow of time spent in the secret place, where God reshaped her dreams and ignited a vision for pure, authentic worship. In 2019, Bethany released her debut single, and later collaborated with a close friend to create the Steady Heart EP. Now, Bethany is working on a new collection of songs that have been quietly sitting in her journal, waiting for their time to be shared. Whether leading a room full of people or writing in the secret place, Bethany’s passion is the same: to glorify Jesus and help others rediscover the beauty of worship that is pure, responsive, and devoted.

Creating inspiring music at just 18 years old. Based in Upper Hutt, Wellington. Native New Zealander Brooke has a passion for Jesus and creating Christian music, which started from a very early age. Growing up listening to Gather Homecoming CD’s and singing psalms and hymns in church.

Gaelic folk music is like nothing else. Grab your bestie and head along to Ceilidh with Hayleigh. Who knows, you might dance with your new bestie amongst the fun!

Colliding Traits formed in 1997 and are based in Auckland. Colliding Traits were formed in 1997. Right from the beginning one of the main strengths of Colliding Traits was their song writing – proven quickly in 1998 when they won the ‘Best Songwriter’ award at the Export Gold Battle Of The Bands and were the overall winners at the West Auckland Battle Of The Bands Regional Final in 1999. Encouraged by this success they recorded three songs ‘Silence’, ‘Silver and Gold’ and ‘Questions’, pressed a limited run of copies and sold them all at gigs.

Emerging with precision and purpose, CRY WOLF is the newest name shaking up New Zealand’s Hard Rock/Alternative Metal scene. Formed by a group of experienced musicians from across the country, the band came together with a shared vision: to create something bold, fresh, and emotionally resonant. The name CRY WOLF hits hard - visceral, aggressive, and layered with meaning. It speaks to the urgency of emotion and the frustration of being unheard, turning the idea of a false alarm into a powerful metaphor for resilience and self-expression. With Kevin Ashby (lead vocals, guitar), Josh Dillner (lead guitar, backing vocals), Nick Raven (bass), and James Porteous (drums), CRY WOLF delivers a sleek fusion of heavy riffs, cinematic melodies, and raw emotion - think Linkin Park, Story of the Year, and Breaking Benjamin, reimagined through a modern lens. Their lyrics dive deep into personal struggles, abstract ideas, and emotional journeys, always with a sense of hope cutting through the noise. In a scene split between polished radio rock and extreme metal, CRY WOLF stands apart - cool, calculated, melodic, and unapologetically heavy.

Derek Lind has been writing songs and performing for audiences for a long time. Following his earliest performances in the late 1970’s he has gone on to write and record seven albums including his latest released, SOLO (late 2015). He currently resides in the bush-clad, isolated hills of Titirangi, West-Auckland, New Zealand. Derek Lind has twice won prestigious NZ Music Awards and has been a nominee for an APRA Silver Scroll. Critical Acclaim; “One of the most consistently literate yet most affecting lyricists, Lind owes much to the school of Texas storytellers but also brings his own astute local observations. There’s humanity and compassion in these songs which are often deeply personal but embrace universal truths” - Graham Reid, NZ Herald

Band from NZ, music- surf reggae

Born from equal parts nostalgia and a stubborn refusal to admit we’re too old to stay up past midnight, Four Tired Dads is a celebration of the golden era of Contemporary Christian Music (1995–2005). With four voices, four instruments, and four sets of dad jokes that never quit, we take you back to the days of DC Talk, TFK, Third Day, Audio Adrenaline, and all the anthems that shaped a generation. Whether it’s an old church hall, a backyard barbecue, or a night that accidentally ends at 2 a.m., we bring the party—dad style. Yes, we’ve got minivans in the car park and early morning soccer practice on the calendar, but once we hit the stage, it’s all soaring harmonies, crunchy guitars, and throwback CCM hits you forgot you still knew by heart. We’re Four Tired Dads. We’re tired. But we still rock.

George After James is the musical project and band of Auckland-based singer and guitarist James Fistonich. His music features intricate guitar playing, soaring vocal lines, and honest, contemplative lyrics that often explore themes of belonging, loss, and finding hope amidst life's realities. The project released its debut single in 2019 and its first EP, Wait For You, in 2020

One of the true rising stars of the New Zealand music scene, Georgia Lines' voice, charisma and songwriting chops are fast winning audiences across the world. After releasing a steady stream of music since 2019, Lines signalled her arrival amongst the upper echelon of local artists with her 2022 EP Human, which debuted at No 3 on the NZ Top 20 and spawned a successful nationwide tour. Throughout 2023, Georgia's star continued to rise. Her performances at SXSW in Texas earned 5-star reviews, highlighting her captivating stage presence and musical prowess. Strengthening her global footprint, she inked a deal with the prestigious US booking agent Wasserman Music, signalling a significant leap onto the international stage. In 2024 Georgia won ‘Best Pop Artist’ at the Aotearoa Music Awards followed by the release of her stunning debut album ‘The Rose of Jericho’ which went to No. 1 in the NZ top 20 charts. Soulful, dreamlike vocals and distinctive feel-good, R&B-sprinkled pop songs provide Lines with a sound that's quickly becoming unmissable.

The Home Sweet Homies are a fun indie pop/rock band from sunny nelson! Through their upbeat energetic music, the Homies desire to spread love and joy to a world in need of hope. This year the Homies release their first EP 'Brighter Future', with the theme that there is hope and a brighter future ahead.

Born in 2016 as a monthly worship night at our home church the Upper Room, the Inner Room is led by Tash Kestle and James Fistonich. With the simple ambition of being in the presence of the Lord and pouring our love on Him, the Inner Room fanned the flame of creative, passionate worship. Our pursuit of the Lord and a desire to publish and proclaim His glory overflowed into original songs of worship.

Jake Nelson has been raised in a music environment ever since he was 7 years old at his parents music academy. The easiest way for Jake to explain himself is through the music he writes , and composes through what his heart follows . Jake has always been heavily influenced by artists like and which defines the different styles of music he makes. He also has discovered his music style through playing in the local markets and events in his current hometown Cambridge, New Zealand. Jake likes to define live performing as an atmosphere where the music takes control over the moment, and new ideas generate from it. It is always been a dream for Jake to share his music to the world and understand his true identity. He looks to continue his journey through Gods plan for him in music and in life.

Kliffs is a five-piece indie-rock/reggae band from Tāmaki Makaurau, made up of musicians in their late teens and early 20s. Known for their smooth vocals, energetic drums, and catchy guitar riffs, their music is rooted in the local jazz, rock, and surf scenes. Their EP Tides Change showcases thoughtful lyrics and standout guitar work. With all members contributing to songwriting, their sound is diverse and full of character. Rumors suggest they're heading back to the studio soon, with new music on the way.

Since 2000, the 10 piece Late 80’s Mercedes have succeeded in bringing the party whatever the occasion! They play a wide variety of tunes including crowd favourites from the likes of Adele, Bruno Mars, James Brown, Stevie Wonder and many more. Late 80’s Mercedes has played an impressive array of corporate functions both locally and internationally, including events for the WOW Awards Show, Vodafone NZ, The NZ Advertising Awards, TVNZ, A1 Grand Prix, V8 Supercars, the Flight-Centre National Ball, World Rally Championships, Air New Zealand and Netball NZ just to name a few.

Lounge Dogs have become a Festival favourite over the years. With a full band performing classic covers they will get you out of your seat, dancing and having the best time.

An effervescent artist blending the soulful warmth of jazz with the smooth edges of contemporary soul. With a sound that captivates from the first note, he's quickly becoming an artist to watch. But it's not just his incredible talent that draws people in - it's his authentic, humble character that leaves a lasting impression. Rarely do you find an artist who's just as captivating live as they are in the studio, and Nick effortlessly bridges that gap.

Our music is kinda like if Sublime and Jack Johnson hung out a lot with Fat Freddy’s Drop…

Stephen Proctor is a visual artist who creates imaginative, contemplative experiences through landscape cinematography, aerial photography, and immersive projection. By combining cutting-edge technology with the beauty of the natural world, his work invites us to slow down, rediscover wonder, and see the unseen. Described as an ‘ancient-future’ fusion, Stephen’s art blends modern tools like drones and projectors with timeless, spiritual themes, evoking a deep sense of awe and connection to the world around us. For over twenty years, Stephen has collaborated with musicians, composers, authors, fine artists, and contemporary dancers. His immersive projections have enhanced live events across diverse genres, adding emotional depth and dynamic energy to both mainstream and liturgical spaces. His work explores themes of reflection, faith, and the intersection of technology and nature. Stephen’s philosophy of slowing down and connecting with nature is explored in his photo-essay book, Wild Wonder: What Nature Teaches Us About Slowing Down and Living Well (Ink & Willow/Penguin Random House, 2024). Combining drone photography, contemplative essays, and personal stories with cinematic soundtracks and films, the book offers a multi-sensory exploration of Creation’s beauty, inviting readers to live a more mindful, wonder-filled life. Stephen lives in a small cabin ( @RivendellxPNW ) nestled in a forest in the Columbia River Gorge near Portland, Oregon, where he draws inspiration from the landscape and its wildlife, including a family of deer that frequently visits.

Pineapple Hedz are a reggae / funk band from Hamilton, New Zealand, featuring a five piece brass section. Influenced by the Skatalites and the Roots.

The planetboom Band is passionate about encountering God, seeking His Presence and bringing positive, God-honouring change to their culture. Comprised of young, passionate musicians, songwriters and vocalists, the planetboom Band exists to champion the mandate of Planetshakers—Empowering Generations to Win Generations. Pioneering the next generation of Planetshakers music, The planetboom Band is passionate about encountering God, seeking His Presence and bringing positive, God-honouring change to their culture. With this passion, they produce relevant, and contemporary praise and worship music, inspiring young people to encounter God personally and receive the freedom they need in every area of their lives.

We combine strengthening and stretching postures, gentle movements and Bible scripture.

Passionate about music you can really vibe and groove to, Reuben presents a flavourful fusion of indie-folk and gospel-funk across his music. A multi-award-winning lyricist, frontman, worship leader, and multi-instrumentalist, Reuben seeks to connect people and breathe life by sharing music that points to Jesus without being weird about it. The heart of the music is to share of our harvest, create beauty that can be enjoyed, which encourages, challenges, and points people to Jesus. Recent years have seen Reuben and the Jasper Road Band performing in various locations and festivals, playing their first sold-out show, and producing and releasing music (with 10 tracks independently released throughout the course of 2024). With a live album in the works, Reuben is only getting started. We go with God, leaning into music that boxes us into that niche, and we'll keep singing about Him as long as the opportunity is there. We pray that the music blesses you. "Do the thing, hope & dream, walk with Jesus... music stream 🎶 🌊" Thanks for stopping by ✌️

Revival Tribe brings a powerful and compelling anointing for worship, all through NZ they are lighting fires of revival in the hearts of young people, youth groups and churches. Melodic tones with well sculpted lyrics build powerful breakthrough, taking you to new experiences of who God is, and his plan for you.

Souvenirs Worship is a collective of worshippers and creatives based in Wellington, NZ. We’re passionate about sharing the songs God has entrusted us with and creating moments, memories, or “souvenirs” that point people to The Creator.

We sometimes play music and write tunes

Alt-Country band in NZ, built on heartfelt songs, layered harmonies, and killer guitar solos, bringing honest road-worn songs to every stage we hit.

A musical force bridging continents and cultures. TîMMY The First is an artist born in Zimbabwe, raised in New Zealand and Canada, whose sound transcends boundaries. Starting his musical journey in the realm of hip hop, Timmy initially honed his craft with powerful, introspective lyrics, but as he evolved as an artist, he began weaving his African roots into his sound, creating a fusion of global influences that reflect his diverse upbringing. With a bold new direction in his music, TîMMY’s live performances are where he truly shines. He’s graced the stage with some of the biggest names in the New Zealand and Australia music industry, having opened for iconic acts such as Savage, JessB, Gold Fang, and CHAII. But it’s his full-band performances that set him apart from the crowd, as he brings a new, electrifying live experience that fuses traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds in ways audiences have never seen before.

We are 3 piece youth band from Northland New Zealand. We create music to get people to dance...

Siblings who love to sing when they’re not arguing, eating or playing Fortnite

Ver DeClay is a producer, song writer and singer from Wellington, NZ. His music is constantly evolving towards bridging the gap between what words can express and the intangible emotions that we seek to describe. Balancing powerful drums with soulful vocals, he takes influence from all over the world. From praising God to romance, he doesn’t shy away from raw and honest lyricism.

Wash originate from the surf beaches of Tauranga and are now based in Auckland. For eight years they have been working together to develop their own distinctive sound – fat analog synths pump, and rock guitars drive rap and melody over a foundation of heavy grooves and solid beats. Described as Nu-rock, the sound derives from rapcore and rock.

We are Messengers are fronted by Darren Mulligan, a single minded Irish man who writes rock n’ roll anthems and intimate earthly psalms for messy broken people. The goal has always been to engage culture in conversation about the goodness of God and to put words and melody to some of the hardest things we feel as humans. This is a band that understands and loves the outsiders, the marginalized, the lost and the least. We Are Messengers have built a career, the old fashioned way, on the road touring relentlessly around the USA, Europe and beyond. They have had 11 consecutive top 10 radio singles including the multi chart #1 hit song “Come What May” and the Gold certified “Maybe Its OK’. Collaboration has been a cornerstone of We Are Messengers distinctive sound. In 2020 country legend Vince Gill joined the band on a one take stripped back version of “Image of God” captured live and acoustic at Vince’s place. Features by Cory Asbury, Josh Baldwin, Naomi Raine of Maverick City and Christian Hip Hop legend KB have followed.

Zach Ready and Vin City are a duo from Wellington, New Zealand, who create and release music, primarily within the hip-hop and rap genres. Their collaborative work includes the album The Mustard Seed, released in 2019, and singles such as "Heat" and "Heart Muscle".