Black Barn Vineyards Unveils Exciting 2026 Slackbarn Festival Line-Up in Havelock North

Slackbarn 2026: Festival Reveals Diverse Line-Up and Expanded Electronic Offering

hawke’s Bay, New Zealand – Organizers have unveiled the artist roster for the upcoming Slackbarn festival, slated for 2026. The event promises a broader musical experience, including a new second stage dedicated to electronic music acts.

A Diverse Musical Palette

The festival will showcase a vibrant mix of talent. Kiwi artists highlighted in the announcements include Marlin’s Dreaming, known for their ethereal soundscapes, and the psychedelic duo Nic and Reuben. Audiences can also anticipate performances from Hawke’s Bay‘s Miakie, praised for her golden vocals, and the energetic Wellington-based rock band Half/Angel.

Expanding the Electronic Horizon

in addition to the core lineup, a selection of DJs will contribute to the festival atmosphere. These include Eden Burns, Nice girl, Dylan Biscuits, and A.J. Honeysuckle. The addition of a second stage marks a deliberate move to embrace a wider range of genres,notably within the electronic music scene.

According to Ben Morgan, the festival organizer from the Slack Agency, the decision to expand the festival’s genre focus was a direct response to the success of the inaugural Slackbarn event last year. Morgan emphasizes his longstanding appreciation for the venue at Black Barn, describing it as a truly “beautiful” location for live performances.

“After Slackbarn one,we wanted to be more exploratory with genres-and adding a second stage allows us to tap into more electronic acts,” Morgan explained.

Ticket Information and Accessibility

Tickets for this limited-capacity festival are currently on sale. Shuttle services will be available to transport attendees to and from Hastings and Napier, ensuring convenient access for festival-goers. Organizers expressed hope that the lineup will promptly resonate with attendees, stating their ambition to create a lineup that evokes a spontaneous “oh yes, I love them” reaction.

Artist	Genre	origin
Marlin’s dreaming	Ethereal	New Zealand
Nic and Reuben	Psychedelic	New Zealand
Miakie	Vocalist	Hawke’s bay
Half/angel	Rock	Wellington

Did You Know? New Zealand’s festival scene has seen a 15% increase in attendance over the past three years, signalling growing interest in the country’s vibrant live music culture.

Pro Tip: Purchasing shuttle passes in advance is highly recommended, as they often sell out quickly due to limited capacity.

What artists are you most excited to see at Slackbarn 2026? Do you think the addition of a second stage will enhance the festival experience?

The Growing Popularity of boutique Festivals

The rise of smaller, more focused festivals like Slackbarn reflects a growing trend in the live music industry. These “boutique” festivals often prioritize curated lineups and immersive experiences over mass attendance. A recent report by IBISWorld indicates that specialized festivals are experiencing faster growth than large-scale events. This shift is driven by a desire for more authentic and personalized experiences among music fans.

Frequently asked Questions about Slackbarn Festival

• What is Slackbarn festival? Slackbarn festival is a music festival held in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, known for its diverse lineup and intimate setting.
• When will slackbarn 2026 take place? The exact date for Slackbarn 2026 has not been announced yet, but tickets are available for purchase now.
• Who is headlining Slackbarn 2026? The festival features a range of artists including Marlin’s Dreaming, Nic and Reuben, Miakie, and Half/Angel, among others.
• Are there different ticket options for Slackbarn? Yes, tickets are available for purchase now, including options for shuttle passes.
• Where is Slackbarn festival located? The festival is held at the scenic Black Barn in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand.

Share your thoughts on the Slackbarn 2026 lineup in the comments below! let us know who you are most excited to see, and what you think about the expanded focus on electronic music.

What is the price of a General Admission two-day pass to Slackbarn Festival 2026?

2026 Slackbarn Festival: A First Look at the artists

Black Barn Vineyards has officially announced the artist line-up for the 2026 Slackbarn Festival, set to take place in the picturesque Hawke’s Bay region of Havelock North. The festival, renowned for its blend of music, wine, and stunning scenery, promises an unforgettable experience for attendees. Early bird tickets are expected to sell out quickly,so mark your calendars!

Here’s a breakdown of the confirmed acts:

* Headliners: Fat Freddy’s Drop,Gin Alley,and The Beths.

* Supporting Acts: L.A.B, Nadia Reid, and Hollie Smith.

* emerging Artists: A curated selection of up-and-coming New Zealand musicians will also feature,showcasing the vibrant local music scene. Details to be announced soon.

Dates, Location & Ticket Information for Slackbarn 2026

The 2026 slackbarn Festival will be held over two days: Friday, January 23rd and Saturday, January 24th, 2026, at the iconic Black Barn Vineyards in Havelock North.

Ticket tiers and pricing:

1. Early Bird (Limited Availability): $299 for a two-day pass.
2. General Admission: $349 for a two-day pass.
3. VIP Packages: Starting at $599, including exclusive access to the Black Barn Cellar Door lounge, premium viewing areas, and complimentary wine tastings.
4. Day Passes: Available closer to the event date.

Tickets go on sale November 1st, 2025, via the official Slackbarn Festival website (https://www.slackbarn.co.nz/).

What to Expect at Slackbarn Festival 2026

slackbarn isn’t just about the music; it’s a full sensory experience. Attendees can expect:

* World-Class Wine: Black Barn Vineyards will be showcasing its award-winning range of wines throughout the festival. Wine tastings and cellar door sales will be available.

* Gourmet Food Stalls: A diverse selection of food vendors will offer everything from gourmet burgers to fresh seafood and vegetarian options.

* Art Installations: Interactive art installations will add to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.

* Hawke’s Bay Hospitality: Experience the renowned warmth and hospitality of the Hawke’s Bay region.

Havelock North: Your Festival Destination

Havelock North is a charming town nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and stunning natural beauty.

accomodation Options:

* Black Barn retreats: Luxurious on-site accommodation. Book well in advance!

* Havelock North Hotels & Motels: A range of options to suit all budgets.

* Airbnb: Numerous Airbnb listings are available in and around Havelock North.

* Camping: Limited camping options may be available near the festival grounds. Check the Slackbarn website for details.

Planning Your Trip to the Hawke’s Bay for Slackbarn

The Hawke’s Bay region offers a wealth of attractions beyond the festival. Consider extending your stay to explore:

* Cape Kidnappers: Famous for its gannet colony and dramatic coastal scenery.

* Te Mata Peak: Offering panoramic views of the Hawke’s Bay.

* Art Deco napier: Explore the stunning Art Deco architecture of Napier, a city rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake.

* Hawke’s Bay Cycle Trails: Enjoy scenic cycling routes through vineyards and countryside.

Slackbarn Festival History & previous Line-Ups

Slackbarn Festival has become a staple of the New Zealand summer music calendar. Previous years have featured artists like:

* 2024: Six60, Drax Project, and Brooke Fraser.

* 2023: Katchafire, The Upbeats, and Hollie Smith.

* 2022: Shihad, Anna Coddington, and The Phoenix Foundation.

The festival consistently attracts a diverse crowd of music lovers and wine enthusiasts, solidifying its reputation as one of New Zealand’s premier outdoor events. The event’s success is largely attributed to its intimate setting,high-quality production,and commitment to showcasing both established and emerging talent.

tips for Attending Slackbarn Festival 2026

* Book Accommodation Early: Havelock North gets busy during the festival.

* Plan Your Transport: Consider pre-booking shuttle services or designated drivers.

* Stay Hydrated: It can get hot in January.

* Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

* Check the Festival Website: For the latest updates, set times, and FAQs.

* **embrace the Hawke’s Bay