The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Set To Bring Historic 75th Anniversary Milestone Show To Auckland In 2026
Renowned for stirring music, military precision, cultural displays, and dramatic performances set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a global phenomenon, drawing over 230,000 spectators annually in Scotland and over 100 million more worldwide through international broadcasts. A capacity audience attended the Tattoo in Wellington when it was last in New Zealand in 2015.
On February 19th and 21st, 2026, Eden Park will proudly host a full-scale production of the Tattoo's 75th anniversary Show, 'The Heroes Who Made Us' — complete with its signature Scottish bagpipes, massed military bands, Tattoo Dancers, and international performers from across the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. This emotionally charged Stadium spectacular will bring together over 1,000 of the world's finest performers to showcase stirring anthems, traditional Scottish heritage and bold, contemporary choreography in celebration of the values that connect us all — honour, community, resilience and pride.
Led by the magnificent Massed Pipes and Drums featuring UK Military musicians, the Show will feature over 30 bands and acts from around the world including fan-favourite Top Secret Drum Corps and performers from the New Zealand Defence Force amongst many more.
Making its return to New Zealand for the first time since 2015, this will be the Tattoo's first-ever performance in Auckland — and one of its most ambitious international Stadium productions to date. Blending the timeless traditions of the British Armed Forces with modern performance and world-class production, the Tattoo continues to evolve, while remaining rooted in history. Cutting-edge lighting, immersive sound design and stunning visual imagery will elevate the performance experience, all set under the stars at Eden Park, New Zealand's National Stadium.
Jason Barrett, CEO of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: 'Bringing the Tattoo to Auckland for the first time, as part of our 75th anniversary, is a landmark moment in our history. This is a celebration of the human spirit, of shared identity, and of the heroes who shape our communities. We can't wait to share this unforgettable experience with New Zealand audiences.
Presented in New Zealand by live entertainment powerhouse TEG, in partnership with The Entertainment Lab, the event reinforces Auckland's reputation as a global destination for major cultural moments.
Geoff Jones, Chairman of TEG, said: 'The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of the most extraordinary live experiences on the planet. It's a celebration of tradition, culture and international connection. For fans of pageantry, music, and military history, the 2026 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Auckland will be an unmissable event.'
Dustin Lockett, CEO of The Entertainment Lab, said: ' In 2016, I had the immense privilege of producing the most successful international outing of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Melbourne — a milestone that profoundly shaped my career. Today, I am deeply honoured to once again serve as the custodian of this iconic brand, and I eagerly anticipate welcoming passionate audiences from across New Zealand to Auckland for what promises to be one of the world's most spectacular events.'
Nick Hill, CE Tātaki Auckland Unlimited: 'We are proud to invest in major events like The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which bring world-class experiences to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland and deliver significant cultural and economic benefits for the region. Hosting this iconic event for the first time is a major opportunity to welcome visitors from around the country and beyond, encouraging them to not only enjoy the show, but to explore more of what our vibrant city and region have to offer.'
About The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a globally acclaimed celebration of military tradition, music, ceremony and cultural performance. First staged in 1950, the Tattoo has grown into one of the world's most recognised live events, bringing together performers from over 50 countries. In 2010, it was granted the Royal title by Her Majesty The Queen, and is proudly supported by its patron, HRH The Princess Royal. The Tattoo has raised over £13 million for services and arts charities since its inception.
About TEG Live
TEG Live is a dynamic and diverse promoter of live content operating in many genres, including music, sport, family entertainment, esports, and exhibitions. TEG Live connects millions of fans every year with unique live experiences and adds value to events with hospitality, partnership, and sponsorship services. TEG Live is owned by TEG, a global leader in live entertainment, ticketing, digital and data which sits at the heart of the live event experience for millions of fans. TEG operates globally and includes TEG Live, TEG Sport, TEG Rugby Live, TEG Experiences, TEG Dainty, TEG Van Egmond, TEG MJR, Laneway Festival, Handsome Tours, TEG Europe, TEG Asia, TEG USA, Qudos Bank Arena, Ticketek, Ovation, Fan+, VIP NOW and SXSW Sydney.
About The Entertainment Lab
The Entertainment Lab is an independent live touring producing and promoting company. Dustin Lockett, CEO of The Entertainment Lab has had a distinguished career over the past 20 years across the sports and entertainment industries. Dustin has promoted or co-produced shows such as The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the Crusty Demons, Grand Designs Live, MasterChef Live, QI Live, X Factor, Roller Derby Xtreme, Better Homes & Gardens Live, Ghost the Musical, The Beast, Neil Oliver, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Louis Theroux, Ross Kemp, Michael Mosley, Andy's Amazing Adventures, Dynamo, Blue Planet and Planet Earth Live in Concert, David Walliams and Sir Bob Geldof.
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