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Lines to the Big Day Out beer tent stretch back a good 20 metres with people willing to queue for a cold beer or four in the sun.
English tourists Dave Diamond and Ben Couch said it was worth the wait.
Mr Diamond said he had queued four times for beers and had only seen the one act so far.
When asked if he would see any more bands today he said: "We'll see, we'll go get a beer first".
They said the Big Day Out was no Reading Festival but they were enjoying themselves.
Mr Diamond said he was looking forward to Dizzee Rascal.
After being served in the beer tent, punters make their way into the fenced off area next to the Essential Stage.
Inside the fenced off drinking area, fans are gathered around in groups, sitting amongst the empties to soak up the sun and sounds.
Other revellers spoken to by nzherald.co.nz said this year's line-up wasn't as good as in the past, but the sheer number of bands playing made it a worthwhile event.
Karl Rowson has been to all the Big Day Out events except two: "With the amount of bands here, you're a mug not to come for the money."
This year he parted with his hard-earned cash for the local and international acts, he said.
And he's prepared for the occasion with two camel packs strapped to his back and six different colours shaved into his head.
Louise Kay has driven all the way up from Gisborne.
It's her second time at the Big Day Out and she's looking forward to catching Rage Against the Machine on the main stage later tonight.
She said, although last year's line-up - which included Tool and Muse - was better, it was still going to be a great day.
