Vinyl Records Make a Resounding Comeback in New Zealand

Across New Zealand, a resurgence in vinyl records is transforming the music retail landscape. In the first half of 2025, vinyl sales exceeded those of CDs for the first time since the 1980s, according to Recorded Music NZ. This revival is not just a passing trend; it reflects a deep-seated appreciation for the tactile experience of vinyl among music lovers.

The Heart of the Vinyl Revival in Taupō

On a quiet street in Taupō, MyMusic stands out with vibrant music posters and shelves brimming with records. Established in the 1980s, this indie record store has remained a staple in the community. Its manager, Jason Hose, embodies the spirit of the store with his energetic presence and a deep knowledge of music. Customers flock to MyMusic, particularly during the holiday season, seeking both new and secondhand records.

Hose, who has been with the store since the 1990s, takes pride in his ability to connect shoppers with music they didn’t know they wanted. He often refers to his approach as “Jason Intelligence,” a playful nod to his knack for recommending hidden gems. For Hose, every genre matters, and he welcomes discussions on everything from metal to jazz.

The store has become a destination for collectors and casual shoppers alike, with orders frequently shipped to customers as far away as Australia. “I love what music does for people,” Hose shares. “It takes them away from stress and brings joy. I make sure this place is fully stocked with something for everyone.”

Influential Artists Fueling the Trend

Artists like Taylor Swift have played a significant role in the vinyl renaissance. Swift, the best-selling artist on vinyl in New Zealand for the past 22 years, has creatively packaged her music to capture the interest of both devoted fans and newcomers. Her album, Tortured Poets Department, released in 2024, topped the vinyl sales chart, closely followed by Pink Floyd’s classic, Dark Side of the Moon.

According to Charlotte Ryan, a music journalist who explored this trend in her podcast, “The Long Play,” Swift’s influence is undeniable. “As much as we might love or hate her music, she’s encouraging younger audiences into record stores, and that’s amazing,” Ryan states.

In contrast to some record stores in the United States, which report substantial profits from Swift’s albums alone, MyMusic utilizes popular sales to diversify its offerings. Hose explains, “When you move a few thousand units of Taylor Swift, you’ve got the budget to stock more obscure artists like Pantera.”

Further south, at Whanganui’s Vinyl Room, owner Ron Fisher reports a similar trend. The store continues to thrive, drawing visitors from nearby cities like Wellington. Fisher notes, “People are discovering that Whanganui has a great record store, and they specifically come here because of it.”

The Vinyl Room appeals to shoppers looking for unique finds that may be overlooked in larger cities. Fisher observes that local music, particularly releases from Flying Nun, is popular among casual shoppers. “People come here looking for classic rock or those harder-to-find albums,” he adds.

In 2025, Fisher’s store saw Nirvana’s Nevermind emerge as the top seller, a testament to the enduring appeal of classic albums. “It’s fascinating to see these albums crossing generational lines,” he explains. This trend highlights the growing interest among younger audiences in music that shaped previous decades.

Ryan emphasizes that vinyl sales reflect diverse regional preferences, noting that different parts of New Zealand are drawn to varying genres. For instance, metal records sell well in Hamilton, while hip-hop finds a home in South Auckland.

Despite the challenges posed by the convenience of streaming services, the allure of vinyl continues to thrive. As consumers seek authentic experiences, record stores like MyMusic and Vinyl Room are positioned at the forefront of this cultural shift, celebrating the love of music in all its forms.