Jake Whittaker is officially heading across the ditch, announcing his first-ever New Zealand shows in what he’s calling a long overdue homecoming. While it might be his debut as a touring artist in Aotearoa, New Zealand has always been part of Whittaker’s story, with family roots tracing back to Taranaki and countless childhood trips spent bouncing between the two countries.

That connection runs deep; it actually inspired one of his own tracks Coming Home. Now, Whittaker is turning that sentiment into reality, bringing his live show to Kiwi fans for the very first time.

The tour kicks off in Auckland with a headline show at The Tuning Fork on Friday, January 30, before heading south for a special appearance at Summer Nights in Stratford on January 31. 

With his dad’s hometown of Eltham just ten minutes away, the Stratford date is about as close to a hometown gig as it gets.

“This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time,” Whittaker said. “I go back all the time, and I’ve always loved New Zealand. To finally play my own shows there means a lot.”

Fans can expect exactly what Whittaker has become known for on the Australian country circuit: a full-throttle, boots-on-the-floor country party. Both shows will feature local support acts, adding to the community vibe and making the nights feel more like a celebration than a standard gig.

“Country’s coming to town,” he said. “If we need to bring shoeys across the ditch, we will.”

For Jake, this isn’t a one off visit either, he’s already got his sights set on making New Zealand a regular stop.

“I’d love to get back to New Zealand every year if possible,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to finally sharing my music there.”

Tour Dates & Tickets

January 30 - Tuning Fork, Auckland - Tickets on sale now via Moshtix

January 31 - Summer Nights (Free Concert) - King Edward Park, Stratford