Pacific Festival of Brass - Band Contest Day One

Today's events are all free and it is the sacred item and test for each grade. . Eleven B grade bands start at 8.30 am, C grade at 9am with 10 bands. The Parade of Bands is at 2.30 pm followed by three of our up and coming Youth Bands at 4pm. In the evening the highest grade of band perform their sacred item and test piece. the test piece is chosen for the band so everyone plays the same piece but different standards in each grade. The Youth Band are own choice.

This year marks a significant milestone as we bring the 2024 National Brass Band Championships back to Auckland after thirteen years and we have given it a name that is closely connected with the vibrant South Auckland community, as well as a brand new venue and place. With a history spanning over 140 years, the National Brass Band Championships holds a special place in the hearts of brass band enthusiasts across New Zealand and the Pacific region. This year's festival promises a unique flavour compared to past contests, symbolising a turning point in the history of brass banding in our beloved country with a strong Pacifica flavour to many elements over the four days.

We have also made history in other ways having the largest number of entries this century with over 1400 musicians competing from 43 bands. A very warm welcome to our overseas guest bands from Tupou College, Tonga; Immortal Brass Eternally from Japan; Hong Kong Brass Band; Paramatta City Band and Marion City Band from Australia. We also have a small group from Tupou Tertiary Institute from Tonga and soloists from as far as the UK.