UB40’s Ali Campbell Returns to New Zealand for Summer Festival

English singer Ali Campbell will take the stage at New Plymouth’s Bowl of Brooklands as part of the six-show Kingston Calling 2026 summer festival tour, headlined by UB40 featuring Campbell. The final performance of the tour is scheduled for February 14, 2026, marking the band’s first full tour of New Zealand since 2019 and their first appearance at the Bowl since 2016.

Campbell, who left the original UB40 lineup in 2008, has since led his own world-touring ensemble. The iconic voice behind hits like “Red Red Wine” and “Kingston Town” reflected on the band’s long-standing relationship with New Zealand, dating back to their first tour in 1983. “We go everywhere; we like to go to places that people wouldn’t necessarily go to, off the beaten track, just because it’s fun,” he shared.

The singer described their inaugural tour as akin to “going to the moon.” He recalled the rapid transition from learning to make their own instruments to achieving success with their first album. Upon arriving in New Zealand, the band was welcomed warmly, and they participated in an anti-apartheid demonstration outside their hotel. It was during this time they connected with local reggae band The Herbs, who have remained friends throughout the years.

Since then, UB40 has performed in New Plymouth multiple times, first appearing there in 1989. Campbell expressed enthusiasm about returning to the unique setting of the Bowl of Brooklands, noting that the audience consists of reggae lovers who “love peace and love and unity.” He added, “It’s generally party time, so we always have a good gig,” recalling the vibrant atmosphere, especially when fans swam in the lake in front of the stage.

As the upcoming tour unfolds, Campbell will celebrate his 67th birthday just a day after the New Plymouth concert. He described life on the road as a holiday with “18 of my best mates.” While acknowledging the challenges of travel, which “plays havoc with your body clock,” he emphasized that everything else about touring is enjoyable.

Looking ahead, Campbell mentioned plans for additional shows across Australia, the South Pacific, India, Africa, Europe, and the United States throughout 2026. The excitement surrounding the Kingston Calling 2026 tour continues to grow, as fans eagerly anticipate the return of UB40 and the unforgettable performances that lie ahead.