Shihad has broken the record for the most tickets ever sold to a New Zealand-headlined hard rock concert, with their upcoming show at Auckland’s Spark Arena now sold out.
As part of their ‘Final New Zealand Tour’, the band has just two shows left.
Their Friday, March 14th performance at Spark Arena is a historic milestone for the iconic Wellington-born rock band.
Drummer Tom Larkin says, “Spark Arena – the last show we’ll play in Auckland – is SOLD OUT!! It’s been an incredible ride, and an absolute honour to share this moment with everyone who’s supported us over the last 37 years. Let’s fu**ing go!”
The tour will conclude where it all began, with Shihad’s final performance at Wellington’s Homegrown on Saturday, March 15th.
Opening the show in Wellington is The D4, Dick Move, and Mim Jensen. Tickets available at www.shihad.com.
Formed in 1988, Shihad quickly evolved from the thriving thrash metal scene to become one of the most beloved bands in Australia and New Zealand. With ten studio albums, multiple ARIA nominations, and countless Aotearoa Music Awards, their impact goes far beyond record sales, having shared stages with metal giants like Faith No More, Tool, and Black Sabbath.
This tour offers a final chance to experience the raw energy Shihad brings to the stage. Known for their explosive live shows, the band promises a set that resonates with both long-time followers and new fans.
Ending their journey wasn’t a decision taken lightly. As members’ commitments outside the band grew, they collectively decided that they could no longer give Shihad less than their full dedication.
“We’ve had as much fun as we’ve had moments of disappointment and of anger,” bassist Karl Kippenberger says. “But we’ve also had some real special moments.”
“The fundamental chemistry and makeup of what makes Shihad special and what makes Shihad work requires certain things to be in place,” Larkin adds. “When you can’t sustain those things or plan for those things, it takes away from Shihad being something that makes sense. It’s about a shared commitment and a shared energy.”
Lead guitarist Phil Knight says: “You know, personal relationships and professional work don’t always survive forever. But we’ve lived it all. We really have. We’ve lived the life that so many musicians would give their right arm for.”
Vocalist Jon Toogood sums it up: “We need to pay homage to the legacy of this band, because it’s meant so much to us and also to the people that have supported us. We’re gonna fucking hit it!”
Fans can expect a journey through Shihad’s iconic tracks during the ‘Loud Forever’ tour, from early hits like “I Only Said” to crowd favourites like “Run” and “The General Electric.”
Ticket information available via shihad.com.
