Rhythm & Vines History

During Dunedin winter in 2003 University friends Hamish Pinkham and Tom Gibson had an idea to organize an event to invite their networks of friends from around New Zealand to join at one central scenic location – Gisborne!

The next step was teaming up with local Gisborne lad Andrew Witters who agreed to use the amazing purpose-built concert amphitheatre at Waiohika Estate for their inaugural event. With its beaches and sunshine, not to mention the uniquely kiwi destination Gisborne seemed the perfect spot for the party. With the support of all Andrew's family the boys were on their way launching the beautiful vineyard set party. The event would be called 'Rhythm and Vines' and would feature top up and coming act the Black Seeds amongst other acts. The event went off without too many hitches under the bright blue Gisborne skies and accommodated 1800 impressed guests.

In 2004/05 the event was well on its way to becoming the class event it is today and entertained around 5,500 people. A second stage was put in place with more of a dance focus. Crowd favourites the Black Seeds returned to perform a memorable sunset show, while headliners Salmonella Dub had the vineyard thumping following a spell binding New Year's celebration.

The event grew further in 2005/06 to accommodate a new main stage and a capacity for 12,000 people. Security measures were up, flushing toilets and permanent power facilities were implemented. Fat Freddy's Drop had just been crowned New Zealand's number 1 band at the NZ Music Awards and people clambered to buy tickets.

In 2006 the event underwent massive growth with 15,000 people over 4 stages and internationals such as Mylo, Crazy P, Shapeshifter, Kora and Dick Johnson headlining the event.

Last year the fifth year anniversary bought a colossal stable of both festivals goers and artists to Gisborne. Four stages were now in place at Waiohika and catered for everything from indie to dance, roots to punk. The goals of the initial event rang true as up and coming local acts performed with the likes of returning kiwi heroes Hollie Smith and Scribe and internationals MANDY and New Young Pony Club. The now famous midnight display bought the 16,000 strong crowd to a standstill as Ariel fireworks and lasers lit up the main stage basin.