Rhythm and Alps has unveiled its full lineup for 2026, and it is shaping up to be the New Zealand festival's most exciting edition yet. Marking 16 years since its inception, the Cardrona Valley event returns to Wānaka across 30th–31st December, 2026, this time in a refreshed two-day format designed to deliver what organisers are calling "its biggest New Year's celebration yet." Headlining the bill are drum and bass powerhouse Dimension, Grey Lynn pop superstar BENEE, beloved Kiwi acts Fat Freddy's Drop and Shapeshifter, and rising producer MPH.

Rounding out the upper tier of the lineup are Belters Only, Flava D, Flowidus, Lee Mvtthews, and Wax Mustang, while local favourites Borderline and NO CIGAR represent the homegrown pop-rock and indie rock scenes respectively. The full bill also includes Fat Papi, Charli Brix, Ely Oaks, [IVY], Bari, Chris Keene, Deep Notion, and dozens more acts across the two days, with further names still to be announced. It is a lineup that balances international firepower with strong New Zealand talent throughout every tier.

Tickets are currently on sale, with fans able to choose between a full festival pass covering both days or a single-day ticket for either 30th or 31st December. That flexibility is a welcome addition for those looking to experience just one night of the New Year's celebrations in the Southern Alps. Rhythm and Alps 2025 drew large crowds to see acts including Rudimental, The Black Seeds, and Chaos in the CBD, following a 2024 edition featuring Lime Cordiale, Montell2099, and DJ Aroha.

With Dimension and BENEE topping the bill and a deep supporting cast spanning drum and bass, indie, pop, and electronic music, Rhythm and Alps 2026 looks set to send New Zealand into the new year in serious style. Festival-goers chasing a stunning alpine backdrop, world-class sound, and a strong local identity will want to secure their tickets soon before the Wānaka celebration sells out.