Split Enz Confirm Supports for Upcoming Australian and New Zealand Tours

Split Enz Confirm Supports for Upcoming Australian and New Zealand Tours

Rolling Stone Australia
Rolling Stone AustraliaApr 23, 2026

Why It Matters

The tour underscores Split Enz’s resurgence, driving ticket revenue and reinforcing nostalgia‑driven demand in the Australasian live‑music market. It also provides a platform to launch their new album and re‑engage a multi‑generational fan base.

Key Takeaways

  • Hans Pucket supports Split Enz on all New Zealand dates
  • Vika & Linda join Australian leg as special guests
  • Tour marks band's 1,000th live performance
  • New album ‘Where Do You Come From?’ drops June 5
  • Enzyclopedia re‑release celebrates 51 years of Mental Notes

Pulse Analysis

Split Enz’s 2026 tour signals a major revival for one of Australasia’s most influential acts. After a nearly two‑decade hiatus, the band’s 1,000th gig and a sold‑out Electric Avenue comeback have reignited public interest, prompting venues from Hamilton to Melbourne to report brisk ticket sales. By pairing the shows with local talent—Hans Pucket in New Zealand and the celebrated duo Vika & Linda in Australia—the tour taps into regional fan loyalty while offering fresh concert experiences that go beyond a simple nostalgia act.

The supporting acts add commercial and artistic weight to the itinerary. Vika & Linda, praised by icons such as Paul Kelly and Kasey Chambers, bring a seasoned vocal harmony that complements Split Enz’s hook‑laden indie rock, likely boosting ancillary merchandise and streaming spikes. Hans Pucket’s local appeal in Wellington helps the band connect with New Zealand audiences on a grassroots level, reinforcing ticket demand in smaller markets. Simultaneously, the tour serves as a launchpad for the ninth studio album *Where Do You Come From?*, slated for a June 5 release, giving fans a live preview that can translate into early album sales and streaming numbers.

From an industry perspective, the tour illustrates the profitability of legacy‑artist circuits in the post‑pandemic era. Live‑music promoters are increasingly betting on established brands that can guarantee sell‑outs, reducing financial risk compared to newer acts. Split Enz’s strategic alignment with high‑profile support acts, combined with a coordinated re‑release of their catalog through the Enzyclopedia series, creates multiple revenue streams—ticketing, merch, and catalog sales—while reinforcing the band’s cultural relevance. This multi‑pronged approach highlights how veteran groups can leverage nostalgia, new material, and local collaborations to sustain relevance and drive growth in today’s competitive entertainment landscape.

Split Enz Confirm Supports for Upcoming Australian and New Zealand Tours

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