Gig Review: TEEKS @ Waikato Regional Theatre, Hamilton – 23/01/2026

Kirikiriroa’s new theatre played host to Teeks, and it couldn’t have been a more fitting setting. Nestled on the banks of the Waikato River, the theatre sits comfortably on Victoria Street, as though it has always belonged there. Walking in, you’re immediately greeted by the beautiful Ralph Hotere artwork, once housed in the old Founders Theatre – a thoughtful nod to the past within a striking new space.

The architecture is simply beautiful: elegant, classy, and the perfect venue for Teeks’ intimate performance. Hamilton’s main street was vibrant and buzzing with energy; there was a renewed sense of excitement in the air. And Teeks did not disappoint.

Accompanied by a stunning string section, a pianist, and for a few songs his mate Sam on guitar – who quickly became an audience favourite – Teeks delivered all the fan favourites, including First Time, Oil & Water, and more.

The strings were the perfect partner for Teeks’ voice. His raw, beautiful vocals filled the space from the very first note. There was a vulnerability the strings brought out, and Teeks explained this was the purpose of the show: to connect with people, to sing with nothing to hide behind. Early on, he invited the crowd to sing along to Wash Over Me, creating a moment of genuine connection. The venue felt cosy and close, like you were part of the performance, and the audience hung on every word.

Teeks also treated the crowd to a range of beautiful cover songs, beginning with Bic Runga’s Drive. His rendition was raw and melancholic, perfectly suited to his voice. Other covers were scattered throughout the show, including a hauntingly beautiful version of Fleetwood Mac’s Landslide. The emotion in the room was palpable as the crowd sang along. Teeks shared that the song had been particularly important to him over the past year, and you could feel that meaning in every word he sang. He also performed a heartfelt tribute to the late D’Angelo, explaining how influential the artist had been and how deeply he had shaped his musical journey.

One of the most touching moments of the night came when Teeks invited his longtime mentor and friend Maisey Rika on stage. He spoke about meeting her through a mentoring programme when he was a young musician, and how he had always dreamed of one day sharing a song with her on stage. It was a beautiful full-circle moment.

The show was a brilliant way to open the new BNZ Theatre – a real asset to Hamilton’s CBD. Teeks was superb, delivering a flawless vocal performance from start to finish. It’s heartwarming to see so many talented musicians continuing to rise. Well done, Teeks – I would absolutely recommend catching him live if you get the chance.