NZ is spending millions to lure the big acts. Is it working?
Toby Manhire speaks to music journalist Chris Schulz about the government’s approach to funding major events across Aotearoa, and to Emma Gleason about the best (and worst) political merchandise available in the lead up to election 2026.
22 Sep 2026
More about the episode
The government today published a review of its approach to funding events across NZ. That includes $40m for concerts, in a programme launched a year ago like a Robbie Williams chorus. Chris Schulz, writer of the Boiler Room newsletter and Spinoff contributor, joins Toby to talk through the goals of the fund, what is has achieved and where it fell short.
Plus: Emma Gleason on the pick of the political merchandise in election 2026.
At Large with Toby Manhire is produced by Te Aihe Butler, Bridget Mills and The Spinoff. Read more at thespinoff.co.nz.
