Music

'Trust us': Northern Bass announce big change for 2025 festival

"This isn't permanent."

After 13 Kiwi summers of wild sets and plenty of New Year memories, Northern Bass is switching things up.

The Mangawhai festival is hitting the reset button and launching a new-look experience for 2025/26 – NB JNGL25!

Instead of the usual three-day, multi-stage event, JNGL25 will now be focussing on a tighter two-day event centred around the iconic Jungle Stage.

Organisers say it’s all about doubling down on what makes the festival “truly special” – the vibe, the music, the production, and the deep connection with its community.

“Last summer was a high point,” said Festival Director Gareth Popham. “But behind the scenes, the squeeze was real.”

Even though the festie was one to remember, ticket sales didn’t quite stack up against soaring production costs. And the Northern Bass crew knew something had to give.

So instead of pulling back altogether, they’ve made some changes, including downsizing to protect the experience for the die-hards who return year after year.

From today, tickets have switched to more affordable two-day and one-day passes, with capacity capped at 6,000 (half the usual size) so everyone heading along can soak up the full Jungle Stage energy.

If you've already got a ticket, you’re sorted - but keep an eye on your email inbox with info on credit, transfers, or a refund if that’s the go.

“Thank you for supporting us early,” Popham added.

“This change isn’t permanent. Northern Bass is keen to return to the full three-day format when the time’s right.”

And heads up – the full NB JNGL25 line-up drops at 5.30pm on Thursday, August 14.

"Trust us, it’s gonna be something special."