BIG FAN will open an Expression of Interest process for rangatahi aged 25 and under from Tuesday 21 April, inviting applications from artists, promoters, and crew positions.
New Fans is a programme built entirely around rangatahi, with paid opportunities across all levels of live music delivery – from performers and promoters, to lighting operators, photographers, and door staff.
Launching with its first show on Friday 12 June, New Fans will run bi-monthly throughout 2026, with shows in June, August, October and December, each curated and delivered by a different young promoter.
Selected promoters for this first round will be notified by Friday 8 May, and will then work with guidance and support from the BIG FAN team to build the lineup, plan marketing, and deliver their own affordable all-ages show at BIG FAN.
At the heart of New Fans is a simple mission: to remove barriers to live music for young people. With $10 tickets, an all-ages environment, and lineups curated by rangatahi themselves, the programme aims to create safe, welcoming entry points into gig culture – while also supporting the development of the next generation of Aotearoa’s music industry workforce.
“If we want a sustainable music ecosystem in Aotearoa, we need to invest in how audiences are formed, and in the pathways for rangatahi to be part of the industry. All ages shows are a critical part of that, and New Fans is about re-establishing those entry points so rangatahi can engage with live music early, not just as audiences, but as the people putting on and working behind the shows.” says Savina Fountain, General Manager.
By investing in both audiences and young creatives behind the scenes, New Fans aims to build a stronger, more sustainable local music ecosystem – nurturing young people who not only make music, but also attend, support, document, and produce it.
WHO CAN APPLY
New Fans is open to rangatahi who are:
Based in Tāmaki Makaurau
Aged 25 and under
New Zealand citizens or residents
Available for the show date and prep sessions
New Fans is made possible by BIG FAN and the Auckland Council.
BIG FAN’S NEW FANS
Expressions of Interest Open: Tuesday 21 April 2026 at 10am
Promoter Expressions of Interest Close: Tuesday 5 May 2026 at 10pm
NEW FANS: SHOW ONE: Friday 12 June 2026
Rolling Expressions of Interest will remain open for artists and crew positions.
For more information and to apply, visit: www.bigfan.co.nz
ABOUT BIG FAN
BIG FAN Charitable Trust is a not-for-profit, multi-purpose music hub located in Morningside, Tāmaki Makaurau. We offer three world-class recording studios and a live music venue all under one roof. Our goal is to bring people together, to support the role of music in the betterment of people’s lives, and to foster the talents of musicians, songwriters, and those behind the scenes at every level.
