Four huge New Zealand artists are set to perform at a new Queenstown music festival next year.
The Valley, being produced by Ripe Events, is being held for the first time at Gibbston’s The Church Cellar Door and Cafe on January 24.
The monster lineup features Kora, The Black Seeds, Reb Fountain and Hollie Smith, along with local support acts.
Festival director Nathan White says it’s "exactly" what the organisers dreamed of when they set out to create The Valley.
"It’s a celebration of Aotearoa’s soundscape, paired with the food, wine and natural beauty that makes Gibbston truly iconic."
Kora’s known as one of Aotearoa’s most powerful and dynamic acts, fusing elements of roots, reggae, funk, rock, dub and electronic music to create a sonic identity that’s entirely their own, while The Black Seeds have taken their distinctive homegrown sound to the world since launching their soulful roots-reggae fusion more than two decades ago, building a devoted international fan-base, alongside loyal local fans.
Fountain’s a premium NZ award-winning artist — her Flying Nun debut, Reb Fountain , and sophomore, IRIS , were both released to critical acclaim; MOJO’s Martin Aston described her as "NZ’s next alt-folk sensation", while Rolling Stone said it was "impossible not to be moved on this journey".
Smith’s no stranger to Queens-town audiences — she’s performed sold-out gigs here fairly regularly — and is a prolific, hardworking singer, songwriter and performer whose incredible live performances and powerhouse vocals have made her one of the most sought-after acts in the Kiwi music industry.
White says tickets will go on sale at 7am on September 1.
General admission starts at $80 with kids under 12 free — he notes while it’s not a kids’ event, if people can’t find a babysitter, he doesn’t want them to miss out on the fun.
There’s also "very limited" VIP tickets available for $249, which includes a welcome drink, premium canapes, exclusive access to the VIP marquee and bathrooms and a private bar.
The event, running from noon till 8pm, will also include refreshments courtesy of Scapegrace, Canyon Brewing and Mount Edward wines, and a host of food options.
— TRACEY ROXBURGH
