Take Off to Tussock Country: The Ultimate Feel-Good Escape, Powered by Air New Zealand

If you’ve been craving a proper break, not just a night off, but a real change of scene...this is your cue to start planning.

This May, one of Aotearoa’s most heartwarming regional events is calling… and thanks to Air New Zealand, getting there is all part of the experience. Welcome to Tussock Country – New Zealand’s Country Music Festival, a ten-day celebration in Gore (aka New Zealand’s Capital of Country Music) that’s equal parts music, connection, and pure southern charm.

Running from May 22 to 31, Tussock Country brings together more than 80 events and hundreds of musicians. It’s a full calendar of live performances, cozy gigs, storytelling sessions, and those spontaneous, magical moments that happen when great music and great people collide. As a proud supporter of Tussock Country Festival and 20 regional events across Aotearoa, Air New Zealand is helping make these uniquely Kiwi experiences more accessible.

Because it’s not just about getting from A to B. It’s about opening up the country in a way that invites you to explore beyond the usual hotspots. To discover places like Gore, where community, culture, and creativity come together in a way that feels authentic and refreshingly unpolished.

Fly in, settle into the rhythm of the festival, and let the days unfold - whether that’s discovering new artists, exploring the local food scene, or simply enjoying the slower pace of Southland life.

Tussock Country isn’t just an event; it’s a reminder of how good it feels to step outside your routine and experience something new. And with Air New Zealand backing events like this across the country, it’s never been easier to say yes to those moments.

So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to plan your next escape, this might just be it. Explore the full programme and start mapping out your trip at tussockcountry.nz - your Southland adventure is ready for take-off. ️

This article is sponsored by Air New Zealand.

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