Successful Concert at Manfeild Draws 2,500 Attendees

A successful concert held at Manfeild on March 16, 2024, attracted approximately 2,500 attendees from the Manawatū region and beyond. The event, part of the inaugural Manfeild Live music festival, showcased performances from notable acts including Kora, Dragon, the Black Seeds, the Jordan Luck Band, and Midnight Switch. This gathering marked a significant step in the venue’s evolution, potentially establishing it as a prominent concert destination.

Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, according to Paul Cocks, chief executive of the Manfeild Park Trust. He expressed gratitude for the community’s response, stating, “It’s actually quite humbling just how positive it has been.” Cocks noted that many participants expressed a desire for similar events in the future, indicating a strong appetite for live music at the venue.

Despite drawing smaller crowds compared to larger events, such as the concert featuring Australian DJ Fisher, which attracted 25,000 people at Mt Maunganui’s Bay Oval the same night, the atmosphere at Manfeild was intimate and engaging. Cocks remarked that the audience embraced the experience, contributing to a lively and enjoyable environment. “The crowd made the most of it,” he added.

The weather on the day of the concert was ideal, further enhancing the overall experience. Before the event, Cocks had emphasized the importance of its success for future endeavors. He noted that while motorsport remains a core focus at Manfeild, which hosts racing events every weekend, there is a growing interest in utilizing the 70-hectare park for diverse activities.

Over the coming months, the trust plans to establish a clearer vision for how Manfeild can better serve Feilding and the surrounding area. Cocks acknowledged that while the event was successful, there were areas for improvement. A list of potential enhancements is already in development to ensure future concerts can reach even greater heights.

The diverse lineup was a key factor in attracting attendees, with one concertgoer sharing their enthusiasm after discovering the Black Seeds for the first time. Cocks expressed appreciation for the support from the community, noting, “It was as successful as it was because the community across New Zealand decided they saw enough value in it to turn up.”

He also extended his thanks to the sponsors, including the Manawatū District Council and local businesses that contributed to the event’s smooth operation. When asked about the potential for more concerts at Manfeild, Cocks responded positively, stating, “Watch this space.”

With the enthusiastic response from attendees and plans for future events, Manfeild is poised to become a significant player in New Zealand’s live music scene.