The National Jazz Festival which has been held annually for 58 years at Easter was postponed this year until June. This is the first time this has happened in the festival's history.

Tauranga Jazz Society President Jeff Baker says the society is looking forward positively to the festival being hosted at this new time of year.

'Once again Covid had a major influence and the festival is now taking place over New Zealand's first Matariki public holiday weekend,” says Jeff.

'This is an exciting alternative and we are delighted to be able to showcase the best of New Zealand talent and, as last year proved, the acts are of an international standard.”

Festival Manager Marc Anderson is happy with the way the programme has worked out.

'Thanks to the willingness of musicians and venues to make themselves available, we have a fantastic selection of events lined up,” says Marc.

Marc says there are also a few new acts along with the traditional favourites.

'But maybe delivered a little differently due to the festival being held in winter. Like the two-day Downtown Carnival which is going back inside the bars – a throw-back to the way it used to be.

'We are excited to have Port of Tauranga as our major sponsor and are grateful to Tauranga City Council and TECT for their ongoing support.”

Mount Maunganui residents will be pleased to know that the festival will be spreading jazz into their township this year.

'We have a new event showcasing jazz at Mount Maunganui with an outdoor stage at Papa O Nga Manu Porotakataka Park happening on Matariki Friday,” says Marc. 'This is thanks to Mount Mainstreet, the Mount Maunganui business association.

'It has been great to partner with so many businesses to showcase the best of Tauranga.”

Marc says there is something for everyone in the jazz lineup.

'We have a fantastic programme of events, from world-class jazz concerts at the Baycourt Community and Arts Centre, the three-day 44th National Youth Jazz Competition, our very own Jazz Cafe & VIP Bar at the Tauranga Club, the high energy Hurricane Party at Totara Street, the two-day Downtown Carnival jazz party in city bars and restaurants, Jazz at the Mount on Matariki, and a swinging Big Band Tea Dance,” says Marc.

'We hope you will join in the fun and bring your family and friends along,” says Jeff Baker.

For programme details visit www.jazz.org.nz
Book your tickets online at Ticketek or in person at Baycourt Community & Arts Centre Box Office.
59^th National Jazz Festival June 19-26 2022