In between songs, Kiwi music icon Tiki Taane said what most in attendance had already figured out: Silvan Steps is the best music venue in New Zealand.
The incredible amphitheatre is carved into the Silvan Forest hill above Richmond, offering its audience an incredible view over Tasman Bay. Combine that with live music from bands all over the country and you have the makings of a great night out.
Rock the Steps drew its largest crowd yet on Saturday night, with about 800 people filling the Silvan Steps amphitheatre for the sixth festival run by Dorado Whakatu.
Organiser Bowen Allcolour says the event has hit its stride after years of hard work.
"I had this vision three years ago. You start off, get a bit of beginners luck and then you get to the reality of it. After going through the trenches I feel like we’ve got a foundation. This one’s been more zen and not having to chase it all."
Bowen says the festival’s atmosphere was its strongest yet.
"This was such a pleasant, pleasant festival, it was just a great vibe. It’s really a shout out to the wider community. Dorado Whakatu means Golden Nelson, we have it all here."
He says the vision for Silvan Steps is coming to life and the next step is to get an international artist.
"At the start I said I wanted an international artist in three years and I wanted the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. The or John Butler, Jack Black any of those guys would be incredible.”
