Auckland Bands Invited to Compete for More Than $11,000 in Prizes

Entries are now open for the 2026 Ding Dong Lounge Band Competition, offering Auckland bands the chance to win professional recording, a music video, cash and promotional support.

Auckland bands have the chance to take their music to the next level, with the Ding Dong Lounge Band Competition returning this October with more than $11,000 worth of prizes up for grabs.

Backing Auckland’s original music scene since 2013

Ding Dong Lounge has been part of Auckland’s live music scene since opening in 2013. Its annual band competition gives local bands a platform to perform live, reach new audiences and compete for prizes that can help take their music further. Previous winners include Noah Nite, Grapehouse and Blindr.

The first-place prize package is designed to help a band turn its music into a professional release, combining studio recording, music video production, custom artwork and promotional support.

The winning band will record a fully produced single with acclaimed producer and engineer Dave Rhodes, known for his work with Devilskin, Blindspott and Head Like a Hole, at Parachute Studios. The package includes pre-production, recording, mixing and mastering, valued at $4,071.

They’ll also receive a professionally produced music video by Dave Thomson of Imaginary Friends, whose credits include Shepherds Reign, Alien Weaponry and The Boondocks. Valued at $3,500, the package also includes custom artwork and promotional posters from Indium Design, $1,000 in cash, $1,150 worth of Auckland street advertising from Phantom Billstickers, and further promotional support, instrument servicing and free venue hire for a single release party.

There are also prizes and opportunities for the other finalists, including recording offers at Parachute Studios, Ding Dong Lounge vouchers, free Dead Witch venue hire and custom trophies. All semi-finalists are eligible for an online mentoring session with Dave Rhodes, while every participating band can access half-priced instrument servicing through Ion Guitar Works.

Auckland’s bands take the stage

The competition features four heats at Ding Dong Lounge on Wednesday 21 and 28 October, and 4 and 11 November. Judges will select two bands from each heat to progress to the semi-finals on Wednesday 18 and 25 November. The four finalists will compete on Saturday 5 December for the title and grand prize.

Each heat gives bands a 20-minute performance slot to impress the judges, with scoring based on musicianship, vocals, songwriting, originality, stage show and audience size. Bringing supporters along can make a difference.

Bands must be Auckland-based, with all members aged 18 or older. A band must have at least two performers playing together, and judging will primarily focus on original music.

There’s no application fee for Heat One, making it an ideal opportunity for bands ready to get involved. Applications for Heats Two, Three and Four cost $20 per band.

Entries close Tuesday 20 October, with the first heat taking place the following evening.

How to enter

Applications are open now at www.dingdongloungenz.com/band-competition.

For competition rules, performance requirements, backline details and the full prize list, visit the website before applying.