The stories that matter to Waikato, for the Waikato.
News · Waikato · Hamilton · Homegrown · Music · Claudelands Oval
Homegrown gets even bigger: Nine more Kiwi acts announced for Hamilton music festival
Hamilton’s biggest celebration of New Zealand music is expanding its 2027 lineup, with another nine performers confirmed for the festival’s 20th anniversary.
By The Waikato Advocate · 3 November 2026 · 3 min read
Share
Jim Beam Homegrown returns to Claudelands Oval, Hamilton, on 3 April 2027. Photo: Supplied
The countdown to Jim Beam Homegrown 2027 is gathering momentum, with organisers announcing another wave of artists who will perform at Claudelands Oval in Hamilton next April.
Popular New Zealand acts Nesian Mystik, Hollie Smith, Home Brew and Zed are among nine additions revealed on Tuesday, adding to an already impressive programme celebrating two decades of Kiwi music.
The festival will take place on Saturday, 3 April 2027, following its successful move from Wellington to Hamilton earlier this year.
Nine more acts join the party
The latest additions bring a mixture of established performers and emerging talent to the Hamilton stage.
Joining Nesian Mystik, Hollie Smith, Home Brew and Zed are The Boondocks, MT EDEN B2B EMWA, MYSHAAN, Lomez Brown and DJ Kane Hawkins.
The announcement features several different musical styles, including hip hop, soul, reggae, rock and electronic music.
Hamilton-born performer MYSHAAN will have the opportunity to perform in his home city, while emerging rock band The Boondocks will take another significant step in their career.
The Boondocks previously entered the festival’s emerging artist competition and will now perform on its Rock Stage.
Festival chief executive Andrew Tuck says the event remains committed to providing opportunities for newer artists alongside performers who have helped shape New Zealand’s music industry.
Two decades of Kiwi music
Homegrown first launched in Wellington before relocating to Hamilton for its 2026 event.
The move proved successful, with approximately 25,000 people attending the festival at Claudelands Oval.
The 2027 event will mark the festival’s 20th anniversary, with organisers bringing back familiar names while introducing new performers.
Previously announced artists include Fat Freddy’s Drop, Sir Dave Dobbyn, Shapeshifter, Gin Wigmore, Savage, The Exponents and Devilskin.
The combined lineup reflects Homegrown’s focus on showcasing music created and performed by New Zealand artists.
Hamilton benefits from major events
The festival’s return represents another opportunity for Hamilton to establish itself as a destination for major live entertainment.
Large-scale events can bring additional demand for local accommodation, hospitality, transport and other services, particularly when visitors travel from outside the region.
Organisers previously reported a strong economic contribution from the 2026 event and have indicated their intention to build on its success.
Homegrown is scheduled to return to the same Claudelands Oval venue, bringing thousands of music fans together for a full day of performances.
Tickets remain available
Organisers say ticket demand for the anniversary event has been strong, with earlier ticket releases already selling out.
General admission and a limited selection of VIP tickets remained available at the time of Tuesday’s announcement.
Further information and tickets can be found at homegrown.net.nz.
With five months remaining until the festival, the latest announcement provides another reason for Waikato music lovers to mark 3 April on their calendars.
