Rock The Steps

Get ready to rock like never before at Rock The Steps, happening at the breathtaking Silvan Steps Amphitheatre!

Our fifth instalment of this world-class festival promises to be absolutely electrifying, with an epic lineup spanning every corner of rock—from blues and funk to classic, heavy, and electric rock. This is set to be our biggest and best festival yet, so don’t wait—secure your tickets now and join the excitement!

We’re proud to partner with The Rock FM, 7am Ticketing, and Nelson Light and Sound to bring you Nelson’s most rewarding music festival to date.

About Us

Our Story

Dorado Whakatū is a Nelson-based events company with a mission to establish a golden era for the Nelson/Tasman music and arts scene.

With an exciting history of organising four successful festivals and events at the iconic Silvan Steps Amphitheatre, we’ve been instrumental in positioning it as a premier international venue. Our goal is to put Nelson firmly on the global map as a destination for world-class music and arts.

But our vision doesn’t stop there. Dorado Whakatū is committed to creating unforgettable events across the region and even expanding beyond New Zealand’s shores. A Golden Nelson is more than a vision—it’s a way of life we carry with us wherever our journey takes us.

Thank you for being part of this adventure so far.

Bowen Allcolour

Founder/Director, Dorado Whakatū

Summer Daze '24

Recap and credits for Dorado Whakatūs 3rd festival Summer Daze 2024

Wow! The Dorado Experiment had its best gig yet!
We definitely brought the gold to the Golden Bay. 🌟

Thank you for everyone you came over the hill to join us in such a magical evening. You guys danced all night long!

Thank you Hamish and Bruce for the lazers and lights!

Thank you Jane and Andrew for the beautiful hospitality at the @musselinngoldenbay

Remember to get your tickets to see us perform at Silvan Steps at www.doradowhakatu.co.nz

If YOU are in the Top of the South, tilt your screen!
And shake the glitter on those golden clothes in your wardrobe - we’re coming over the hill THIS SATURDAY 🕺🐍

📍 MUSSEL INN, ONEKAKA (@musselinngoldenbay)
🕗 8PM til late

Dorado Whakatū presents: The Dorado Experiment ☀️
Get ready, Golden Bay!
The Dorado Experiment is rolling into @musselinngoldenbay to throw down a night of golden rock’n’roll!

Whether you’re a die-hard rock fanatic or just in it for a good groove, this is your chance to experience the magic of live music. So grab your friends, crank up that energy, and let’s make some unforgettable memories together!

📅 Date: 18 January
📍 Location: @musselinngoldenbay

Let that tribal beat move your feet, rock with the rhythm and rock with the heat. Can’t wait to see you there! 🤘✨ #DoradoExperiment #LiveMusic #goldenbay

Number 4 is done ✅

'Shake Your Speares' was a MAGICAL evening and a wholesome gathering up on Silvan Steps.

We definitely had a world class event happen right on our door step.

The Barden Party was brilliant, definitely the best way to consume Shakespeare! A massive thank you for your performance and your commitment to the arts.

@dj.kingb thank you for setting the vibe with the tunes and OMG the fire performance from @obsidian.mirage was from another dimension. If you've never seen fire dancing before, check these guys out.

Here's a couple of clips I took with my cellphone. I'll put some more content up as I receive it.

If you came to the show and loved it feel free to leave a review on FB. And also spread the word of Dorado Whakatu and the events that we put on.

Can not wait for a 5th event. 😉

Oceans of gratitude for everyone involved,

Bo

1 LAST DAY till show time.

Inlove with Nelson ❤️
I haven't spoken too much lately so I really thought it was about time I shared my heart and vision with this project.

Last chance to get your tickets https://events.humanitix.com/shake-your-speares-silvan-steps

WE ARE ADDING HEAT TO OUR SHOW!!🔥🔥🔥

That's right!!@obsidian.mirage.performances will be performing a fire dance as your post Theatre entertainment. As the sun is setting a ceremony of masculine and feminine will take place at Silvan Steps to honour the land, the people and the moment.

You do not want to miss this added value to an already amazing evening with award winning The Barden Party and tunes from @dj.kingb

Tickets here https://events.humanitix.com/shake-your-speares-silvan-steps/tickets

Only a few days left!

🥳 Congratulations Katrin Struben! 🎉

You are our GIVE AWAY WINNER 🤩

Your prize includes x2 tickets, Food and Wine!! 🥖🧀🍷

Yahoooo!!! 🎉🎉🎉🥳🥳🥳

It is such a great honour to have Laura Irish and The Barden Party coming to Silvan Steps Amphitheatre. We've put on some rocks festivals in the past but I really wanted to do something diversified for Nelson, something that people with a different appreciation to the arts could enjoy. It's so important to honour as many beautiful form of expression as you can.

The Barden Party was such an obvious choice, it had been on the mind since the birthing of the steps. A beautiful example of Nelson grown creativity, how far they've already gone on their journey!

Dorado Whakatū has always been about showing the deep pool of talent that exists in our beautiful city of gold. I am so grateful that we were able to line this up together.. and as for this show being the WORLD PREMIERE!! I mean how cool is that!!!

#nelson #shakespeare #macbeth #silvansteps

🎄✨ Christmas Work Dos are Coming Up! ✨🎄

Looking for an unforgettable way to say a huge thank you to your hardworking team this holiday season? Do something unique this year and take them up the hill for a night they’ll never forget!

Kia ora!
We are excited to offer an exclusive corporate experience at Shake Yours Speare's, featuring the WORLD PREMIERE of The Barden Party's Macbeth – A Sassy, Sexy, Bluegrass Twist! 🌟

📅 Date: 23rd November
📍 Location: Silvan Steps Amphitheatre, Nelson

Why choose this for your Christmas work do?

🌄 Premium Experience:

Your team will be seated in a designated area at the front three terraces, with stunning views of Tasman Bay.

🍴 Delicious Food:
Each guest will receive a yummy food basket to enjoy during the show.

🍻 Exclusive Service:
Waiter service throughout the evening ensures your team’s comfort.

🎟️ Drinks On Us:
Includes a generous $400 bar tab, or upgrade to a $1000 bar tab for an additional cost.

Corporate Package Pricing:

$2000 for 10 people, includes a $400 bar tab. (Approx 4 drinks pp)
$2500 for 10 people, includes a $1000 bar tab.
Custom packages are available for larger groups or higher bar tabs—just let us know!
This is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season, impress your clients, or show your team how much you appreciate their hard work. With award-winning theatre, gourmet food, and breathtaking views, this is an evening that will truly stand out. 🎶🎭✨

Interested?
Send us a message or reach out for more details—we can’t wait to host you at Shake Yours Speare's!

Tickets Here: Link in Bio!!

🎭🌟 WORLD PREMIERE ALERT! 🌟🎭
📅 23rd November, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Silvan Steps Amphitheatre, Nelson, NZ

Nelson, get ready for something truly unforgettable! We’re excited to announce the WORLD PREMIERE of Macbeth – A Sassy, Sexy, Bluegrass Twist! by the award-winning The Barden Party . 🎶✨

This isn’t your typical Shakespeare – we’re bringing the heat with a saucy, high-energy bluegrass spin on the classic tale of ambition and betrayal. It’s bold, fresh, and full of mischief and magic! 💫

And that’s not all... We’re making history with the first-ever theatre performance at the stunning Silvan Steps Amphitheatre! 🌿 Picture this: an evening bathed in the warm glow of golden hour and sunset, with live theatre, great food, drinks, and music all around. 🍔🍻

✨ Here’s what’s in store:

🔸 A fun and unique take on Shakespeare’s Macbeth 🎭

🔹 Catering options when you buy tickets + food trucks and drinks at the venue

🔸 A DJ spinning tunes before and after the show to keep the energy flowing 🎧

🔹 A shuttle service to transport you up and down the mountain for ultimate convenience 🚌

Don’t miss out on this must-see event of the season! Tickets are limited, so grab yours today and get ready for a night of music, mischief, and magic. 🎶🔥

Ticket: Link in Bio!!

Tag your friends, spread the word, and let’s make this the most exciting night of the summer! 🌟

#MacbethBluegrassTwist #WorldPremiere #SilvanSteps #NelsonEvents #BardenParty #LiveTheatre #DoradoWhakatu #MusicMischiefMagic #FoodAndFun #ShuttleService

🌟 Something New is Coming to Nelson! 🌟
📍 Silvan Steps Amphitheatre

Prepare for an extraordinary event, where art and nature will come together in ways you've never imagined! There’s a hint of magic in the air, and something truly special is taking shape at the Silvan Steps Amphitheatre. If you love captivating stories, unforgettable moments, and the thrill of live experiences, this is for you. 🌀

Stay tuned for details and prepare to be swept away by an evening of wonder! 🌿✨

#SilvanSteps #NelsonEvents #GetReady #SomethingBigIsComing #LiveUnderTheStars #DoradoWhakatu

WHOAH! What an absolute blast DeVilles Gold was!

A massive thank you to the planets aligning on that one <3

DeVille & Evan... You guys really are the best, the team can't even begin to express how amazing you were to partner up with. We will be back!

The Dorado Experiment, Bo Bobson and Aine... Absolute channeling wizards.. Thank you for creating such a space of celebration, expression and JOY!

The setting up crew.. you guys created such a safe place for people to let go, loosen up and party! The place looked amazing, I know that so much time and effort went into that.

NELSON PEEPS! Thanks for showing up and partaying! I know it was a short notice event... but that didn't stop you coming out in the winter to band together under the principal that Nelson IS ALIVE!!! Thank you for being the heart that beats in this city.

If you missed this one DONT WORRY, It's only the first of many xo

Lula @Velvet Moon Photography - Motueka Took these shots. If you need to look good for anything... She's your girl!

#musicfestival #nelsontasmannz #singing #rockstar #doradowhakatu

Kia ora Whakatū family!

Yes its true.. We've put on some flavoursome festivals for you lot to enjoy last Summer. However Dorado's vision is far broader than that. We are creating a space and opportunity for a wide variety of arts an entertainment to be showcased and enjoyed by the Nelson/Tasman... The next event will be very different to what you've gotten used to..

Dorado Whakatū will never become stale, we will flow like the greats rivers do, through the changing seasons giving things around it life and creating deep channels of new energy.

I'd love you to get creative and comment what you would like to see up on Silvan Steps next..

Oceans of Gratitude,
Bo

#nelson #singing #musicfestival

Candid close ups 😍

Whakatū is swarming with beautiful people - young or old we share the same heart and the same beat. The rhythm is inside us all.. let go and moooove like your life depends on it!

If you see a familiar face give them a tag <3

#GoodVibesOnly #SummerDaze #nelsontasmannz #closeup

Summer Daze Music Festival '24

Who wore it best?

Velvet Moon Photography - Motueka making Silvan Steps look out of this world 🤩

#SummerDaze #rockstar #nelsontasmannz #GoodVibesOnly

We had some amazing bands come together for Summer Daze... ☀

Comment below on who really impressed you??

@Velvet Moon Photography - Motueka with the shot xo

We have the best looking crowds 🤩

Nelson is beautiful from the inside and out - from the land to the people

Lula from Velvet Moon Photography - Motueka has a keen eye and has effortlessly highlighted the aroha ♥️

A Gratitude Post

Is too long for instagram... Check Facebook for the real deal...

I'm currently lying in bed sick and Charlie Brown (Optimus Gryme) kindly sends me through some clips he took... I couldn't resist not posting this one... On Saturday I felt like a rockstar, and i guess for a moment I looked like one too <3!
#doradowhakatu #SummerDaze #rockstar

Hello FAMILY!

What an incredible adventure yesterday was, you all looked amazing!

Mother Nature definitely showed up to greet us with swirling energies and I am so impressed with how many of you stayed in her presence.

We as a team have learnt so much from this festival in regards to weather adjustments (what to do when the rain looks like it's coming)

We are so grateful that the rain held off as long as it did so we could spend most of the show dry.

But we are also grateful of the challenges that the rain presented when it did finally come, it has given us growth and wisdom for our next events.

For example having the big busses already waiting at the Velodrome for you guys to hop into for shelter.

The last thing I want is you guys patiently waiting in a storm.

What an amazing rock and roll experience! The bands were fantastic, the sound was incredible, the food was delicious.

Go and follow Dorado Whakatū on FB and Insta and spread the word.

It's been a maaaaasive few months for me, so I’m taking a couple days off to spend with my beautiful family.

If you enjoyed the show please write a review/recommendation here

Also email any photos/ videos you took and I will do a big photo dump in the next few days.

As always Nelson/Tasman

Oceans of Gratitude and Mountains of Appreciation

Bo

Dorado Whakatū

REDRAW!

Unfortunately our first winner we have been unable to get in contact with so we have redrawn to pick another winner!!

So congratulations to Tyla Ngāwai! We'll see you and 3 friends up on the hill for Summer Daze!! 🎉

🎉🎉 CONGRATULATIONS RENEA LAWRENCE 🎉🎉

You are the winner of 4x Tickets to Summer Daze tomorrow!!

Please flick us a message so we can collect your details and send you your tickets!

Huge thanks to everyone who commented, and a reminder it's not too late to get those tickets if you want to join us on the hill ⛰️🕺

I'm just inlove with the team at Dorado Whakatū there are so many people working behind the scenes, collaborating and giving their time for an amazing event. Talk about home grown!

Come and join us for a day of song, dance and love. Come an support this team in our early days, we have big dreams ahead.

https://events.humanitix.com/summer-daze-silvan-steps

TOMORROW IS THE DAY!!

With party time upon us it's time to answer some FAQ's so you all know what to expect, where to go, what to do etc!

Q: Can I bring my own food/drink/alcohol?
A: This event is not BYO! Alcohol, food and non-alcoholic drinks are all available to purchase from our lovely vendors. However, you are more than welcome to bring a bag of chips, muesli bars or other similar snacks with you.

Q: How do I get up to the Venue?
A: We have regular shuttles running to and from the Richmond Velodrome to the venue every hour (2,3,4 etc). There will also be the same shuttle returning to the velodrome every hour on the half (2.30, 3.30, 4.30 etc) in case you would like to leave earlier.

Q: What time do the shuttles start?
A: 12:30pm at the Velodrome

Q: Can I bring a picnic blanket or camping chairs to sit on?
A: Absolutely! Bring whatever makes you feel comfortable, as long as you can carry your belongings onto the shuttle you can bring whatever you need to sit comfortably

Q: Will there be drinking water available?
A: Yes, all you have to do is bring a drink bottle to fill up at one of our watering stations.

Something to also keep in mind is that it is peak summer and fire risk is high! To avoid having a potentially devastating fire this is a completely SMOKE-FREE event.

Hopefully that covers all the questions but if you're unsure of anything feel free to comment a question below for me to answer 😁

Really excited to see all your smiling faces tomorrow for a dance in celebration of this beautiful place we call home!

🪴SILVAN STEPS IS GROWING🌳

Welcome to the new terrace... Behind this area will be where the food court and bar is, and from there you'll be able to lean up to one of these bad boys and watch the show and the view roll on! ☀

With each festival we are stepping up in all areas. How else will we be prepared for the Red Hot Chillies?

The show is in one week ladies and gentlemen!

https://events.humanitix.com/summer-daze-silvan-steps

SONG CRED: Catching Smoke, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard

50% of the tickets have sold! Only 10 DAYS LEFT!

Time is running out❗ This is YOUR time to jump on board and support our region and the music scene. We want to be able to host the likes of the Red Hot Chillies, Foo Fighters and all those groovy cats that by-pass Nelson.

Nelson's newest venue with the MOST SPECTACULAR view is calling your name. Won't you answer?

https://events.humanitix.com/summer-daze-silvan-steps

🎵 7th MUSICAL ANNOUNCEMENT❗- Shedheads NZ

I am honoured and excited to see the Shedheads showcase the young energy in Nelson/Whakatū. And what they have to offer to the energy in the Tasman Bay, the Papa Sky and the Mother Earth.

I feel aligned to have a group of the next musical generation open this festival. It's important for us to include, listen and understand where the generations after us are heading. So without further ado here's a bit about Shedheads!

We are the Shedheads, a 3 peice band that met at Nelson boys college in 2022. We play a mix of funk, rock and grunge songs and have recently been playing some gigs around Nelson. We consist of a guitarist (Ryan) a bassist and singer (JP) and our drummer (Shoei). We are super excited and pumped to play at summer daze 2024.

We are pumped to have you!

🎉 NELSON MUSIC FESTIVAL 🎉

☀️SUMMER DAZE ☀️
- 24th February
- 12.30 - 10pm
- Silvan Steps Amphitheatre
- All Ages

❗NOT LONG TO GO NOW❗

After selling out our first show last year TWICE!! We thought we should go round two and this time make it a SUMMER PARTY!!

If you want bigger and better things to happen for Nelson in the music/arts department now is your time to join the cause! Silvan Steps is growing with each festival we do, so we can step into becoming a world class venue bringing international acts into Nelson.

If this sounds good to you best way you can help is by attending this show, so we can continue to grow this venue into the entity is deserves to be. Even better buy your friend a ticket and bring them up to experience the best music event that Nelson has to offer!

We will have food and a bar up there and our own shuttle system to bring you up and down the hill. This is all ages so you can bring your kids along to share this amazing experience.

We have one chance to prove to everyone that we can make this work and that Nelson Tasman wants a venue like this in its region. So grab a ticket TODAY and spread the word!

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@doradowhakatu

Rock The Steps

About Us

Summer Daze '24

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