For years, Homegrown has been a staple of Aotearoa’s music calendar, celebrating the best of Kiwi talent. But as it looks to the future, it’s time to ask—if not Wellington, then where?

Waikato has come out swinging, but Taranaki is known for punching well above its weight. Set against the majestic backdrop of Taranaki Maunga, the region consistently delivers world-class events in one of New Zealand’s most iconic outdoor venues.

From the ancestral maunga to over 100km of epic black sand surf beaches, Taranaki is more than a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a thriving hub for foodies, beverage crafters, artisans, vibrant arts communities, and innovative businesses. It’s no surprise the region is proudly known as “Like No Other”—and for good reason.

So, will it be ka kite Wellington, and nau mai ki Taranaki, Homegrown?

Musician Gareth Thomas, best known from 2000s indie pop/rock group Goodshirt, believes New Plymouth has something special to offer.

“I've performed at both Pukekura Park and the Bowl of Brooklands with Goodshirt—and various other bands. It's a beautiful setting to perform in, with a good selection of stage setups and natural amphitheatres. I've also attended events here as a spectator and always enjoyed the unique festival experience New Plymouth has to offer,” says Gareth.

Matt Benton, saxophonist from The Black Seeds and proud Taranaki local, agrees,

“I've performed at many Homegrown festivals, and what makes it truly special is the stunning natural setting—something The Bowl of Brooklands could easily match, especially with its proven track record hosting large-scale events like WOMAD and Te Matatini. I know the region's unbeatable mix of mountain adventures, surf, and hospitality will help entice people to travel. Plus, many of Aotearoa’s top musicians claim it as their favourite venue to perform in—and being a born and bred Taranaki boy, I wholeheartedly agree.”

Barnaby Weir from The Black Seeds and Fly My Pretties echoes his bandmate’s comments,
“How I would so love to see the new Homegrown move to Ngāmotu at The Bowl of Brooklands. It’s possibly the best venue around, centrally located in the North Island, and with a smoothly run airport, it’s a perfect destination for music lovers. I believe New Plymouth is set up and ready for such a move, having hosted many big festivals and shows over the years. Great weather, amazing food offerings, potential for camping, and more—Homegrown would thrive here.”

And adding to the stacked references, Taranaki native Sam Thomson from chart-topping Drax Project agrees.

“I’ve been lucky enough to play at Homegrown a few times, and it’s always a great vibe. We’ll support the festival wherever it goes, but we’ve always loved playing in Taranaki (especially as they’re hometown shows for me) and there’s no doubt the region could be a great home for the festival.”

New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) and Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, the region’s development agency, are behind the initial bid to attract Homegrown to Taranaki.

Brylee Flutey, GM Destination at Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki, believes the region has the full package.

“We have the event expertise, a desirable destination, and the infrastructure to be the new home of Homegrown. Getting here is easy, with daily direct flights from Wellington, Auckland, and Christchurch and being centrally located makes driving simple from either end of the North Island.”

With a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels to boutique stays and holiday parks, the city can comfortably host festivalgoers, with many options within walking distance of the proposed venue. Taranaki also embodies a true grassroots regional feeling, reflecting the Homegrown spirit and making it a natural fit for a festival that celebrates Kiwi talent.”

Chade Julie, NPDC Manager Event and Venues, says the natural amphitheatre of the Bowl would be the perfect new home for the event.

"The other centres vying for Homegrown might be bigger, but they would be hard-pressed to find a better location than Taranaki. Our award-winning venues are popular with musicians and audiences alike, both big reasons why we secured Te Matatini in February and have been home to WOMAD for over 15 years.

“We believe Homegrown would thrive here, and for many years to come thanks to region’s ability to scale and grow with the event while retaining its original essence,” concludes Chade.

So, the big question remains—where will Homegrown land next? Is it time to trade the capital’s waterfront for a world-class amphitheatre, where music meets the magic of Taranaki Maunga?

One thing’s for sure: Taranaki knows how to put on a show. So, Homegrown, what do you say—ready to take things to the next level in a place Like No Other?