When our friends at 123NZ shared a sneak peek of Ultra Festival 2026’s Wellington line-up, we couldn’t wait to dig in. Now that the official Phase 1 artists are out, the hype is real! Now that the official Phase 1 artists are out, the hype is real!
Ultra Music Festival is coming to New Zealand in 2026! Wellington will host one of the world’s most iconic electronic music festivals, transforming the waterfront into a pulsating hub of beats, lights and energy. Some awesome acts are heading to the waterfront, but one question remains: Who’s joining them in Phase 2? This is just the beginning, and we’re already counting down to April 10!
Ultra NZ 2026: a festival worth the hype?
Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, is no stranger to world-class festivals. Known for its creative energy, stunning waterfront, and legendary nightlife, it’s the perfect backdrop for Ultra’s debut in the Southern Hemisphere. With three massive stages, a fourth dedicated to local drum and bass talent, and a rumoured line-up that’s already sparking conversations, Ultra NZ 2026 promises to be unforgettable.
The first line-up drop is here!
Hold up, did Ultra New Zealand just drop the first names for 2026?! The Wellington festival just revealed its initial DJ line-up and let’s just say we did NOT see these legends coming. Our bingo cards? Officially shredded. We’re beyond stoked, this is next level!
| Artist Name | Style of Music |
|---|---|
| The Chainsmokers | EDM, Pop, Electropop |
| DJ Snake | EDM, Hip-Hop, Trap |
| Darren Styles | Hardstyle, Happy Hardcore |
| MaRLo | Trance, Psytrance |
| Miss Monique | Trance |
| Nico Moreno | Techno |
| Oliver Heldens | House, Future House |
| ZEDD | EDM, Progressive House |
And that's only the first line-up announcement, there's more to come. So we'll leave our rumoured line-up aka our bingo card online, see below. Oh and for more festival info, we recommend checking out the official site as well.
Our bingo card aka the rumoured line-up: who’s playing (and what’s missing?)
Here’s the rumoured line-up for Ultra NZ 2026. Incredible acts for sure but it also raises the question: Where are the heavy hitters?
| Artist | Style |
|---|---|
| Eric Prydz | Progressive House |
| Afrojack | Big Room, Electro House |
| Zedd | Electro House, Pop EDM |
| Dash Berlin | Trance |
| Deborah de Luca | Techno |
| DJ Snake | Trap, Big Room |
| Eats Everything | House, Techno |
| Markus Schulz | Trance |
| Umek | Techno |
| SCNDL | Dubstep, Bass House |
| Mashd N Kutcher | Bass House, Tech House |
| Indigo Starlight | Hardstyle |
| Cirez D | Techno (Eric Prydz alias) |
| Piero | Hard Dance |
| Tigerlily | Melodic House & Techno |
Note: The full (rumoured) list includes local and emerging acts as well but we’ve highlighted the most recognisable names for international fans.
Back-to-Back (B2B) sets at Ultra New Zealand 2026
- Indigo Starlight b2b Jesabel (Hardstyle)
- Piero b2b Chloe Wilson (Hard Dance)
- Orkestrated b2b Ali Aminos Kh (Techno)
The Verdict: A solid mix of techno, trance, and hardstyle, but where are the mainstream EDM superstars? Ultra Miami and Europe usually deliver Tiesto, Alesso, or Peggy Gou, will Wellington get the same treatment?
How to get ready for Ultra 2026 in Wellington
Even if you are not impressed yet by the rumoured line-up, one thing is for sure. Once the organisers announce the official line-up of New Zealand's first Ultra Festival there will be a run on accommodation and flights. So you better book your travels now, otherwise you might miss out or pay too much.
Check out the best accommodation deals for Wellington, from motels to affordable hotels.Or browse the many hostels in Wellington for a cheap but enjoyable stay. The city has plenty of options for a comfy bed to spend the night. And maybe add a few extra days to your Ultra trip as Wellington has lots more to offer.
And for our overseas travelling EDM fans, check out the flight options to Wellington and lock in your flights asap.
Wellington really is the perfect host city
Wellington isn’t just a festival stop, it’s a destination. Known as the “coolest little capital in the world,” the city thrives on music, art, and culture. Here’s why Ultra NZ 2026 is a must-visit.
- Stunning Waterfront Venue: Imagine dancing with the harbour as your backdrop.
- Kiwi Hospitality: Friendly crowds, great food, and an electric atmosphere.
- Beyond the Festival: From craft beer breweries to Lord of the Rings tours, Wellington has it all.
What else can you do in Wellington?
Ultra is just the beginning. Extend your trip and explore:
- Foodie Heaven: Wellington has an insane amount of cafés and restaurants per capita
- Nature Escapes: Hike Mount Victoria or visit Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary.
- Cultural Hotspots: Check out Te Papa Museum or Wētā Workshop (home of LOTR effects).
- Ferry to the South Island: Turn your festival trip into an epic NZ adventure.
Should you go to Ultra New Zealand 2026 in Wellington?
Absolutely. We're definitely going! Ultra NZ 2026 is a historic moment for New Zealand’s electronic music scene. The line-up is strong, the location is unbeatable and the vibe will be electric. But let’s hope the organisers have a few major surprises up their sleeves because right now, the line-up feels more “great” than “legendary.”
What do you think? Is this line-up enough to make you book your flight or are you waiting for more big names? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
FYI, the featured image is borrowed from our mates at 123NZ, who have created this AI-generated concept of Ultra NZ 2026. Real photos will be photos after the event. You gotta be there in order to take photos!
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