It's still a ways off but we figured the sooner people knew about it the more time those interested would have to get funds together/ make the necessary arrangements with work etc. In November of next year a bunch of us are planning to fly down to New Zealand, pick up campervans at the airport and drive around the country for two weeks taking in the scenery, enjoying lots of delicious food + drink and indulging in some of the country's famous outdoor activities. Actual route is TBD but the itinerary will be flexible enough so that people can drop in and out should they wish to explore other spots along the path outside of the group. This event would be kid friendly and all are welcome. Music hasn't really been discussed as being part of the trip but if you can get your whole band down there it's certainly not out of the question!The tentative dates are between Friday, November 6th (after the US election) to Monday, November 23rd (before American Thanksgiving) but of course people can go earlier and stay longer if they desire.Those wanting to attend would probably want to have their flights booked and campervans reserved by May of next year but the earlier the better in order to ensure you get the van you want and your plane ticket and the best possible price. Air NZ now has direct flights from Chicago to Auckland and there are other direct flights with the same airline departing from the US and Canadian West Coast.There is an official FB event page here: https://www.facebook.com/events/388957665062850/

My (extremely casual) band is already here! I don't know if Hawkes Bay is on your radar either on your way down or back up again, but if people wanted to do a thing there is a nice venue here to play at, small, casual, you can play loud. I am friends with the owners, and provided there is enough notice and the planets align a thing could happen if anybody felt like a thing happening. I can provide local bands/fill-in musicians and/or equipment for anybody who wants to perform in any capacity, we could work something out. Or maybe we'll make an effort to book the place and do something around that time anyway, and you campers can do as you please.Failing that, practice space/gear should probably be accessible if folks just wanted to kick out the jams, motherfuckers.