Cruise tourism keeps capital buzzing as season sails in early
WellingtonNZ and CentrePort welcome the 2025-26 cruise season, which presents a strong forward schedule and significant economic opportunity.
The nation’s newest and hottest festival, ULTRA New Zealand, has now revealed its much-anticipated phase two lineup for the inaugural event on Friday 10 April 2026.
Additional headline artists include Alison Wonderland, NGHTMRE, Pendulum and Ray Volpe, as well as twelve supporting artists and eight New Zealand artists.
Supporting artists include Hi-Lo, Rebuke, Rivo, Imanu, Kaaze, Marten Horger, Mollie Collins, Mt Eden, Quix, Flowidus, Fatima Hjji and Sudley.
Wellington-based talent includes Broderbeats, Joey Ilah and Paige Julia – who will all be taking to an ULTRA stage for the very first time. Additional Kiwi artists include Repair, In:Motion, Lenni Vibe, Pixie Lane and Twofold.
They join the phase one artists announced earlier this year: The Chainsmokers, DJ Snake, Zedd, Darren Styles, Nico Moreno, Oliver Heldens, Marlo and Miss Monique.
The full lineup is on the ULTRA New Zealand website.
Set on Wellington’s iconic waterfront, this is the first ever iteration of ULTRA New Zealand and is exclusive to Wellington. The festival will be spread across four world-class stages featuring EDM, house, techno, trance, drum and bass and bass music. The event has been made possible through funding secured from the government’s Events Attraction Package.
Mitch Lowe, Founder of Audiology Touring, says that the phase two lineup brings both well-known international artists and locally grown up and comers to the ULTRA stages.
“We’ve been working together with ULTRA to curate a lineup that appeals to dance music fans of all generations - festivalgoers can expect old favourites as well as brand new beats. We’re dedicated to creating an incredible experience for all and can’t wait to welcome everyone to the capital in just a few weeks’ time.”
WellingtonNZ Events & Experiences GM, Heidi Morton, says that now the event is sold out, she’s encouraging people to make the most of all that Wellington has to offer over the festival weekend.
“With half of all ticket holders visiting from out of town, and the excitement of a brand-new global event coming to Wellington, it’s a fantastic chance to experience everything the city has to offer.
Plan ahead and book early to avoid missing out on popular restaurants and visitor attractions. The city will be buzzing with energy and there’s plenty to enjoy both before and after the festival.”
For inspiration while planning time in Wellington, visit WellingtonNZ.
Date published: Friday 6 March 2026
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