The Highwaymen ride again

After a sold-out performance in Motueka last year, New Zealand music’s elder statesmen are heading back our way.

Brendan Dugan, Gray Bartlett, Dennis Marsh, and Frankie Stephens, collectively known as the “New Zealand Highwaymen”, have each had their own distinguished solo career.

Tasman-based music promoter Aly Cook says that when they come together, “the magic is undeniable”.

“They continue to captivate audiences with their timeless music, humour and entertainment.”

The group originally included the late Eddie Low, who became unwell prior to the 2024 tour, and Frankie Stevens was asked to step in.  Aly says that the New Zealand Highwaymen embark on their new tour remembering and celebrating their dear friend Eddie, “the voice in a million,” who passed away last year.

Thinking back to last year’s performance here, Brendan Dugan says that he and his fellow bandmates loved this show, calling the Motueka audience “amazing”.

“We really look forward to coming back again seeing your lovely faces and hearing you sing along with us again.”

Motueka State Cinema owner Mark Wentworth says that last year’s tour was very successful for both the Highwaymen and the town itself, with people travelling from as far as Blenheim and Golden Bay to catch the “high-end” show.

“It was good for many Motueka businesses in the town that night – the restaurants were busy,” he says. “Last time, the show was sold out to the 400 seats available.”

He says that Motueka is also fortunate to have a local music promotor like Aly who is supportive of Motueka as a performer in her own right.

The New Zealand Highwaymen will visit Motueka on Wednesday, 28 May. The show will be at Memorial Hall, and tickets are available at Motueka State Cinema and online here.