Organisers said the 2026 event drew around 25,000 people to Kirikiriroa and delivered a strong boost to the local economy. Tuck highlights that scale as motivating the move away from Wellington after 18 years.
“Hamilton gives us the room to go bigger,” he said.
Homegrown had taken place on Wellington’s waterfront since it started in 2008, growing from a crowd of 10,000 to 23,000.
“What we delivered last year was just the beginning. The space, the layout, and the support from the city allowed us to take Homegrown to another level. We’ve got bigger plans for 2027.”
The festival will once again bring together multiple stages, a genre-spanning line-up, and a full-scale festival experience.
“Homegrown has always been about more than just music,” Tuck said. “
“It’s about bringing people together. You show up with your crew, and by the end of the day, you’ve got a few more. That’s what makes it special.”
Six60 ay Jim Beam Homegrown. Photo / Supplied
Loyal fan ticket registrations open at 7pm tonight, April 27, providing exclusive first access to limited loyal fan tickets which go on sale at 8am on Tuesday May 5 in celebration of New Zealand Music Month.
The festival showcases a wide array of music genres including rock, reggae and hip-hop, and has hosted iconic local acts including Sir Dave Dobbyn, Shihad, Six60, Shapeshifter and Opshop.
“As we head into our 19th year, backing Kiwi music is still at the heart of everything we do,” Tuck said.
“Releasing our first loyal fan tickets during New Zealand Music Month is a chance to celebrate the industry we’re part of and the people who’ve supported us along the way.”