Mel Parsons has spent the last few years dividing her time between touring the world and performing her solo show in some of New Zealand’s remotest woolsheds. But this May, the Kiwi favourite will embark on her first tour with a full band since 2015, taking in the country’s main centres.

Parsons will play San Fran in Wellington on May 4, Galatos in Auckland on May 5 and Blue Smoke in Christchurch on May 6. 

The award-winning singer-songwriter is looking forward to returning to stages at these iconic venues, with the backing of a full band: “Taking my band out on the road is a special treat for me after touring solo for so long. I’m really excited about bringing the full sound back to these songs.” 

Inspired by touring almost every inch of rural New Zealand with comedy duo The Bitches’ Box, Parsons will have special guests from the comedy world at each show, including country crooner Wilson Dixon direct from the USA; fringe festival favourite and political satirist James Nokise; and good kiwi bloke Keith 'The Numbers' Preene of Golden Goose fame. 

Parsons - who was a Silver Scroll finalist in 2015 and the winner of the 2016 APRA Best Country Song Award - received critical acclaim for her last album Drylands.

The album spent 41 weeks in the IMNZ Album Charts, peaking at #2 and established Parsons’ place as one of New Zealand music’s most respected songwriters. She’s also well and truly earned her reputation as one of the hardest working musicians on the live circuit, with a European tour kicking off in May/June 2017. 

Don’t miss your chance to see Mel Parsons live with her full band. She will be playing songs from Drylands, as well as all the favourites from her back catalogue.

Mel Parson

Thursday May 4th: San Fran Bath House, Wellington 

Friday May 5th: Galatos, Auckland

Saturday May 6th: Blue Smoke, Christchurch

Tickets via Eventfinda