Jazz In The Park

Saturday 12 April @ Church Road Winery

Tickets

After more than a decade away, the beloved Jazz in the Park event is returning to Church Road Winery on Saturday 12 April, rekindling the magic that made Church Road one of Hawke's Bay’s most cherished concert locations. This special edition of the event is a tribute to the sun-soaked afternoons of the late 90s and early 2000s, when the park was filled with the sounds of music, the clink of glasses, and the sense of community that brought people together in unforgettable ways.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Church Road’s lush lawn, Jazz in the Park promises a soul-stirring experience for jazz lovers and newcomers alike. Headlining this year’s event is the extraordinary Thabani Gapara, whose soulful saxophone will transport listeners through a blend of Afro-Jazz, funk, and soul. Originally from Zimbabwe, Thabani’s journey has seen him share the stage with iconic acts such as Katchafire, Stan Walker, and Troy Kingi, while his own music, including his latest album Dzindza, blends traditional African jazz with fresh, contemporary sounds.

Thabani will be joined by an exceptional lineup of local talent, each ready to deliver unforgettable performances. The legendary Hawke’s Bay Jazz Club Big Band, with a strong history of performing at the original Church Road Jazz in the Park, will kick off the afternoon setting the tone for a celebration of jazz at its finest. Following them, the region’s sassiest songstresses will take the stage, including Margot Pierard with her new project Whiskey Green Horse, Jess Atkins and Deep Fried Funk, and Lady Larisa and her Band.

Beth Elstone (Littlestone), has worked with Church Road Winery for the past 8 years and helped deliver many shows over the summer months. “I’ve often heard people reminisce about the golden days of Jazz in the Park. Time and time again, when I have been working on shows at the venue, people have shared stories of those unforgettable afternoons and there’s always a special fondness to their conversation. It’s clear to me that jazz holds a special place in the heart of this region, and with Hawke’s Bay's Art Deco history, jazz has long been a part of the fabric of our community. Bringing it back to Church Road Winery feels like the perfect way to honour that legacy and reconnect with something truly special.”

This return to Church Road is a nod to the venue’s rich musical history, creating an atmosphere that celebrates both nostalgia and the universal language of live music. With world-class wine in hand, attendees are invited to join the band of true jazz lovers who know the power of a perfect note at golden hour, surrounded by friends and the soulful rhythm of the performances.

Limited tickets are available for this one-of-a-kind event, and with memories waiting to be made, now is the time to secure your place at this remarkable homecoming. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer ready to experience the magic, this year’s Jazz in the Park at Church Road Winery is not to be missed.