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  • Useful Information
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The story of Lakeside Concert

Creating an Experience: The Magic of Music and Community

Welcome to the Rotorua Lakeside Concert, an annual event that brings people together.

As the sun sets over the tranquil waters of Lake Rotorua, a symphony of sounds fills the air. Since 1997, Rotorua Lakeside Concert Charitable Trust has been providing a free entry outdoor concert that showcases the best of Māori, classical, and contemporary music. It has remained a format that is easily accessible to everyone.

It’s a night of music. It’s a night for the community at large. The format is designed to be easily accessible to all locals and guests visiting the city.

Founder Ian Edward envisioned an event that would appeal to everyone, regardless of age or musical preference. From our first concert to our most recent, we have consistently delivered a musical experience that has become a highlight of the Rotorua calendar, year after year.

We are committed to bringing the community together through music, and we believe that our event is a testament to the rich cultural diversity of our region. Rotorua Lakeside Concert has something for everyone.

The Rotorua Lakeside Concert is more than just a night of music – it is an opportunity to connect with your whānau, friends, and community. We invite you to join us this year.

Rotorua Lakeside Concert Charitable Trust - Trustees

Rawiri Waru – Trustee, Mayor Tania Tapsell – Trustee, Ian Edward QSM – Patron & Trustee, Alex Wilson – Chairman, Amber Taare – Secretary, Trevor Maxwell CNZM – Trustee, David Jones – Trustee. 

Thank you to our supporters

Thank you to everyone who took the time to share t Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their feedback and filled out our survey - it plays an important role in shaping future events. 

Congratulations to our winners:
Zoe Mansell - $100 Prezzy card winner
Shannon James - $50 Prezzy card winner
Yvonne Paul - $50 Prezzy card winner
If you attended the Lakeside Concert 2025 'Funkysi If you attended the Lakeside Concert 2025 'Funkyside' or Te Arawa Kapa Haka Celebration. We want to hear from you! 

Tell us what you thought by filling out our survey and you could go in the draw to win a Prezzy Card valued at $100 or one of two valued at $50. This survey closes Sunday, 6th April 2025.

Survey ➡️ https://shorturl.at/3Vm74 (link in bio)

Please note that this prize is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Meta. Prize winners will be contacted via phone and/or email.
The wait is over! 🎉 The main show starts at 7 PM T The wait is over! 🎉 The main show starts at 7 PM TONIGHT!

Join us at the Rotorua Village Green. 🎶
The weather forecast for tomorrow's Lakeside Conce The weather forecast for tomorrow's Lakeside Concert is clear all day. ☀️

However, temperatures will drop in the evening, so make sure to pack something warm!

Join us from 7pm at the Rotorua Village Green.
Thank you to all of our sponsors! Platinum Spons Thank you to all of our sponsors! 

Platinum Sponsors: @onefoundationnz and @rotoruatrust 

Gold Sponsors: @nzcommunitytrust, @aotearoa_gaming_trust, Four Winds Foundation, Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust, Grassroots Trust, @pubcharityltd, @novotel.rotorua.lakeside, @rotorualakescouncil, @deloitte_nz, We Care Community Trust, @thelionfoundationnz 

Bronze Sponsors: @bayofplentyregionalcouncil, @andysmarqueeandpartyhire, @monstavisionnz, @little_big_events_co 

Lakeside Lovers: Artworks, BOP Event Hire, Vivien Cooper, B&B@The Redwoods
We're thrilled to announce that Eden Music will be We're thrilled to announce that Eden Music will be returning to Rotorua Lakeside Concert 'Funkyside'. 🤩🎤

This time, he's bringing something extra special: his debut album, which he will showcase as the pre-show, happening from 5pm-6pm. 

For Eden, this performance is a deeply personal one, as he plans to share not only his music but also the stories of his journey through overcoming addiction and following his dreams.

Join us at the Rotorua Village Green.
Rotorua, get ready for the legendary Soul Prophet Rotorua, get ready for the legendary Soul Prophet – Karl Benton! 🎹🔥 

With over 30 years in the NZ music scene, Karl is a keyboardist, composer, producer, musical director, and educator. Influenced by hip-hop, R&B, and disco legends like Earth, Wind & Fire.

His musical journey includes playing with iconic bands like Ardijah and Kantuta. Now, he’s creating his own fusion of 70s funk, neo-soul, and electronic vibes with his debut album To What End, featuring collaborations with top artists.

Join us from 7pm at the Rotorua Village Green this Saturday, 22nd March for an amazing free concert.
📣 1 Day To Go 📣 Join us from 7pm at the Rotorua Vi 📣 1 Day To Go 📣
Join us from 7pm at the Rotorua Village Green this Saturday, 22nd March for an amazing free concert.
Feel the rhythm at Lakeside 2025 with Mickey Ututa Feel the rhythm at Lakeside 2025 with Mickey Ututaonga. 🎶

Born in Rotorua, Mickey comes from a large Māori musical family (Te Arawa, Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Hine, and Ngāti Māhanga). 

He was introduced to music and drums at the age of four, laying the groundwork for his career. Starting professionally at just eight years old, Mickey gained experience by playing in clubs and with various bands, leading to collaborations with many talented musicians across genres.

A true master of his craft, Mickey continues to push boundaries, always bringing passion, precision, and energy to every performance.

Join us from 7pm at the Rotorua Village Green this Saturday, 22nd March for an amazing free concert.
🎵 Artist Introduction - Richard Anaru! Richard is 🎵 Artist Introduction - Richard Anaru!

Richard is a veteran of many Lakeside events, having been Artistic Director for Whenua in 2018 and MD for Tatou Tatou in 2020. 

After missing last year’s wonderful Lakeside show, Richard is stoked to be joining the awesome Lakeside Music Ensemble again on the guitar for Funkyside 2025.

Join us from 7pm at the Rotorua Village Green this Saturday, 22nd March for an amazing free concert.
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