Festivalgoers celebrated the end of 2024 across three days in the Cardrona Valley with a line-up that included Lime Cordiale, Becky Hill and Dave Dobbyn. The Herald’s Katie Oliver was there to ring in 2025 and found good vibes aplenty.
For the 14th year in a row, Rhythm and Alps drew 10,000 people from all over, with the annual New Year’s festival swelling Wānaka’s population for three days.
It certainly had some big boots to fill this year, following last year’s line-up of Synthony Orchestra, Kaylee Bell and Benee.
The mosh at Wānaka's New Year's festival, Rhythm and Alps. Photo / George Heard
Needless to say, the boots were filled. From start to finish, the atmosphere was infectious.
Walking into the venue nestled in Cardrona Valley, we were greeted by five stages, including two brand new this year; Mansion and Jeff.
This year’s festival featured a plethora of local and global artists, starting off strong with Dunedin-based band The Beatniks.
Their rowdy, rhythmic set filled the valley from the Alpine stage. The Beatniks certainly did their bit to launch the festival to life.
Front of the mosh at Wānaka's New Year's festival, Rhythm and Alps. Photo / George Heard
The Butlers then jumped up and maintained that momentum. Hailing from Sumner, Christchurch, their infamous unruly and melodic tunes got everybody up dancing.
They were followed closely by none other than Sir Dave Dobbyn, whose Kiwi classics sent a ripple of group hugs across the valley.
Then, bringing the energy up a bit were Bag Raiders, Issy Cross and headliner Becky Hill.
Becky Hill performing her set at Rhythm and Alps festival, Wānaka, December 30, 2024. Photo / George Heard
As the clock ticked down to midnight on day two, the afternoon kicked off with Single Malt and Cassie Henderson on the main stage - both of which provided flawless performances.
Wax Mustang’s 80s hip hop prompted some of outstanding dance circles. Rigs were out and sunglasses were on. The ex-carpet salesman turned rap-lord, nailed it as per usual.
EDM artist Becky Hill performing at Rhythm and Alps, December 30. Photo / George Heard
As the sun graced the valley with some much-needed warmth, Elemeno P took to the stage. The New Zealand rock band did not disappoint. Their song Fast Times in Tahoe had everybody singing at the top of their lungs (myself included, apologies to whoever was in earshot).
Festival goers on the night one of Wānaka's New Year's Eve festival, Rhythm and Alps. Photo / George Heard
Aussie favourite Lime Cordiale then arrived. Formed in 2009, Lime Cordiale has toured the globe - their performance at RNA this year a testament to their success.
Consisting of brothers Oli and Louis Leimbach, Lime Cordiale held the crowd in the palm of their hand throughout their set.
Over on the Jeff stage, other acts, including producer and DJ Aroha, Lebanese-Australian Human Movement, Juicy Romance, Sin and Brook and Mincy also smashed out their performances. The tent was packed with muddy shoes and dirty tunes throughout the night.
A New Zealand festival isn’t complete without a rave-cave of some description, and the log cabin was IT. If you were lucky enough to squeeze in early, I doubt you would have left. Every single set in that place was pumping.
Festival goers at Wānaka's Rhythm and Alps New Year's festival, December 30. Photo / George Heard
New Zealand’s own Shapeshifter rang in 2025 with the South Island’s largest fireworks display which left the crowd buzzing.
A surprise stand-out was special guest and Aussie sensation Dom Littrich. His cheeky chaotic energy took over the Jeff stage. To wrap up the mainstage New Year’s Eve celebrations nicely was Montell2099.
It may be a grim morning for 10,000 punters trickling out of Cardrona Valley - likely heading straight towards the nearest dairy for a Powerade and a pie.
Katie Oliver is a Christchurch-based Multimedia Journalist and breaking news reporter.
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