Musician members of E tū are celebrating Labour’s commitment to require international artists touring Aotearoa New Zealand to put a local act on the bill.
The policy follows years of pressure from the local music sector. In 2024, the Music Managers Forum launched Spotlight Aotearoa, calling for every international artist playing here to include a New Zealand opening act. The campaign is modelled on Australia’s Michael’s Rule. Recent tours by Coldplay, Metallica, and Hozier all came through without a single local act on the bill.
E tū member Lucy Suttor, lead singer of punk band Dick Move, has opened for the Foo Fighters. She says chances like that change everything for a band.
“Local supports at big shows gain a whole new following outside of their bubble, which opens doors to opportunities like touring. Most international bands genuinely love to see a little taste of what we’ve got to offer.
“It’s good for the band, it’s aspirational for the crowd to see their peers up there, and surely it’s cheaper than flying someone over from Australia!”
Zac Arnold runs independent label Sunreturn. He says the whole local music industry is behind the policy.
“The economic benefits for Aotearoa are clear. They’re set out in the 2024 Spotlight Aotearoa initiative and the 2026 NZ Music Industry Manifesto, which represent musicians, managers, venues, rights holders, and other industry professionals.
“The money from international live shows flows straight back to local musicians, whose creativity and labour are what New Zealand’s music industry is built on.”
Musicians put that money back into recording and touring, which means more work for local producers, labels, and venues.
“Requiring local supports would be a huge win and is hugely welcome. The next challenge is finding a way to increase fees, so our bands and musicians aren’t breaking the bank on flights and accommodation to play these shows,” says Lucy.
E tū says the tide is turning, and members will keep pushing until local talent gets a fair share for their art.
The message from musicians is simple: no local support, no visa.