Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra launches South Island show

After a triumphant sold-out performance at Auckland’s Spark Arena last month, the Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra has announced a South Island debut in Christchurch later this year.

The event, scheduled for November 1, will take place at Wolfbrook Arena and feature artists such as former AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd, former Shihad frontman Jon Toogood, and Devilskin vocalist Jennie Skulander.

Former AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd at Auckland's Full Metal Orchestra show. Photo / RadLab

The city will also have the chance to see one of their own perform live, with Christchurch-born James Reid from The Feelers taking the stage.

With tickets to the event set to go on sale on August 27, audiences can expect “an unrelenting collision of rock, metal, and classical symphony, delivered by a full orchestra and a 5-piece band”.

Former Shihad frontman Jon Toogood at Auckland's Full Metal Orchestra. Photo / RadLab

Founder of Duco Events, David Higgins, said bringing the show to Christchurch felt like a “natural next step”.

“The debut of Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra in Auckland exceeded every expectation, not only in ticket sales but in the sheer power of the audience’s response,” Higgins said.

“Christchurch, with its passionate rock community, is the natural next step.

“This show is not simply a concert; it is a clash of cultures that redefines what live music can be when two seemingly opposite worlds collide.

“The atmosphere in the arena at the Auckland show was next level - raw, powerful and unforgettable energy.”

The Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra electrifying 6,500 fans at Auckland's Spark Arena. Photo / RadLab

Alex McDonald, the co-creator of a key sponsor, Mānuka Phuel, said the Full Metal Orchestra was an exciting arrival into the South Island.

“Mānuka Phuel has just launched in the South Island this month - so the timing of this FMO show and launch is so good,” McDonald said.

“As a brand, born from the love of music and movement, Mānuka Phuel is proud to bring the energy once again.

“To a night that promises to blow the roof off!”