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Illustration showing Music in The Parks event

Image description

A collage image shows musicians playing the guitar with crowds enjoying the music; some people are sitting in beanbags.

Earmuffs and stage ramps was music to the ears at local gig

By William Sangster

With a dedicated sensory area, Music in Parks brought together music lovers to experience tunes in a way that worked best for them this past Saturday.

  • Earmuffs and stage ramps was music to the ears at local gig
    William Sangster
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  • Sensory earmuffs and dedicated stage ramps were on full display this past Saturday as Gig Buddies teamed up with Auckland Council to host Music in Parks at Fergusson Domain in Onehunga. 

    This annual series of events features 18 free live performances from January to March in accessible spaces across Tāmaki Makaurau.

    Gig Buddies, run by Spectrum Care, is a programme that pairs people with learning disabilities or autism with volunteers to attend concerts and social events together.

  • "The best part was performing, especially under the shade."

    Gabriel

  • When The D*List caught up with event-goers Jess and Hannah, both described the experience as being about making new connections and enjoying the day.

    "Meeting people I wouldn't normally get a chance to meet, going on adventures, listening to great music and dancing," Jess said.

    "Hanging out with a lot of people, loving the bands and all the gigs," Hannah added.

Image description: A stage covered by gazebo shows a band playing music. The sun is shining in the tree-filled park.

  • It was a beautiful, sunny day at the park, filled with crowds of people—some dancing with family and friends, while others relaxed in the shade. The air was filled with the delicious smell of hot chips wafting from the food stalls.

    There were various zones, including an information and safety area, bouncy castles, face painting and rugby obstacle courses for the rangatahi.

    Gig Buddies had a chill-out zone complete with bean bags, free water, sunscreen for the public and earmuffs for anyone who needed a break from the music.

    The event also featured well-known acts from the disability community and local artists, including The Mutes (from Mars), The Four Fathers, Paul the Kidd and Big Tasty. They all delivered incredible performances, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Gig Buddies had a chill-out zone complete with bean bags, free water, sunscreen for the public and earmuffs for anyone who needed a break from the music.

  • Gabriel, a band member from The Mutes (from Mars), loved the event.

    "The best part was performing, especially under the shade. The tarpaulin on top—too good!" he joked.

    If you're looking for a fun and accessible event, Music in Parks is perfect for everyone. The event was fully accessible and wheelchair-friendly, even featuring a ramp to the stage for artists.

    If you're interested in getting involved or want to check out the next event, check out the Gig Buddies website or Music in Parks on Facebook.

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