Pasifika artists to look out for this month

Music is undeniably woven into our Pasifika heritage.

Our ancestors used oral storytelling through song, dance, and poetry, making music an important part of who we are as Pasifika people.

As we enjoy the last two months of summer, I want to highlight some of the most renowned Pacific artists in Aotearoa and across the region who will be performing this month.

Maoli: Last sip of summer tour

Kicking off the list is none other than the acclaimed Hawaiian artist, Maoli.

Known for his blend of soul, country, and island reggae music, Maoli announced his world tour late last year, confirming that Aotearoa would be one of the destinations.

In a social media post, he expressed excitement about releasing his new first single: “I’m really excited to share that my first single ‘Last Sip of Summer’ comes out January 24!”

Maoli is set to perform on 24 January at the Navigation Homes Stadium, Pukekohe, at 8pm, alongside special guest FIJI.

One of his top hits, “Mercy” has over 19 million streams on Spotify, followed by “Every Night Every Morning” with 16 million streams.

“Thank you to all of you that have been supporting me since the beginning. “I got a lot more surprises coming up for you all this year,” Maoli shared in his social media post.

For more information on tickets, check out Maoli: Last Sip of Summer Tour

Don’t miss this chance to enjoy some good soulful vibes.

One Love Festival 2025

An iconic gathering of Pasifika artists – the One Love Festival – is set to feature 46 well-known artists from across the region.

As if the weekend couldn’t get any better, Maoli will also be performing at this festival, alongside other well-known artists such as Rebel Souljahz, Katchafire, J Boog, Inner Circle, FIJI, and Steel Pulse as the main acts.

The One Love Festival will take place over two days (25-26 January) at the Tauranga Domain and will include two stages – the main stage and an Aotearoa stage dedicated to Kiwi music.

While there are too many artists to name, a few notable artists include Spawnbreezie, Adeaze, Tomorrow People, Three Houses Down, Pieter T, Deach, Sammielz, Samson Squad, and Rex Atirai.

This festival promises a spectacular showcase of the best island reggae music that you won’t want to miss.

For more information, visit One Love Festival 2025.

If you are not planning to attend the festival but want to catch up, stay tuned to the Official One Love 2025 playlist on Spotify.

Festival One 2025

Festival One is dedicated to celebrating Jesus Christ by bringing communities together through art and music.

From 24-27 January, Hartford, Karapiro, will be bustling with activity as Festival One is set to deliver over 100 performances across five stages.

The event will also include interactive activities such as seminars and workshops, as well as a community atmosphere filled with food trucks, sports, a skate park, and much more.

Among the many performances, ‘TribeOfOpe’, a group of siblings of Pasifika descent, will also be performing at Festival One.

“We are the Tribe of Ope. A group of siblings who love both music and the One who gave it to them,” they shared regarding their performance.

The siblings include Hannah, Noah, Ope Jnr, and Kelaiah Seuseu.

You can check out their amazing talents on their Instagram page @tribeofope.

Visit more information on Festival One.

The beat of the Pacific

Nothing beats the rhythm of the Pacific; whether it be reggae, country, or uplifting religious faith, Pasifika music is always at the heart and soul of our cultural identity.

If concerts are not your scene, that’s okay. Music can be enjoyed at home, anytime, and anywhere.

If you plan to celebrate the last weekend of January by attending one or all of the concerts mentioned above, have fun and keep that rhythm going!