A highlight of New Zealand’s summer festival calendar, Splore is taking place the weekend of February 19-21 at Tapapakanga Regional Park in the Coromandel.

We might know who’s playing and how to get there, but as far as what to expect (and most importantly, what to pack), we asked DJ duo and Splore veterans, Aroha Harawira and MC Tali to give us the full run down.

For anyone who hasn’t been to Splore before, what’s the vibe?
T: For me, the vibe is always about just that – vibes. While there is no doubt a great selection of music, I love to just drift around and catch up with people, have a dance, eat great food, swim, go with the flow and enjoy all the wonderful things that Splore has to offer in such an incredible environment.
A: Splore is a multi-sensory experience, you never know what to expect.

What’s its point of difference?
T: The setting. With the main stage being right by the beach you can dance in the water whilst listening to your favourite acts. The music is eclectic too, and with all the ‘arts and culture’ extras, the festival appeals to all ages and backgrounds.
A: It’s a family-friendly event, so you’ll see all your friends who never get to go out. The kids can have just as much fun as Mum and Dad and there are so many activities to do and amazing art and interactive installations to experience.

What do you love about it?
T: Everything! The people, the setting, the fact I can wake up in the morning and walk down to the ocean for a swim. Splore is truly one of the most incredible festivals I have ever been to in the world.
A: I always feel safe at Splore, there’s a real community feeling and everyone looks out for each other.

What’s your advice for first timers?
T: Don’t be worrying too much about trying to see this or that act. While the music is great, Splore is best enjoyed when you just go with the flow, because there is so much to see and enjoy. Get yourself a small solid crew and roll out like that. Also, as it’s New Zealand and kinda tropical around that way, take both swimwear and a rain coat!
A: I echo Tali’s thoughts – don’t have too much of a plan, other than to do what you really feel like doing. Go for a swim, dance to an act you’ve never heard of, grab a fresh coconut to drink, go for a walk on the art trail. You’re bound to bump into people you know so just roll with what feels good at the time.

What will you be wearing?
T: I have a dope black and white Melody Eshani tracksuit for Reebok that Aroha actually picked out for me after she saw it on Instagram! I’m wearing that for our set together. Saturday night is dress up night and I am still undecided.
A: I’m still um-ing and ah-ing about what to wear for my set with Tali on Friday night, but I have no doubt people will want to be taking lots of pictures of us!

What did you regret not packing last year?
T: Nothing. I am a seasoned festival goer since 1997 and have attended festivals all around the world. I know how it goes!
A: A picnic blanket.

What will you be leaving at home this time?
T: My worries and stresses. Splore is no place for them.
A: My ego.

What beauty essentials are you bringing?
T: Sunscreen for the day, and some fun makeup/glitter/facepaint for the night!
A: Ultraceuticals Ultra UV Daily Moisturiser, Stila Stay All Day liquid eyeliner and Hourglass Ambient Lighting bronzer.

What/who are you listening to in the lead up?
T: Hiatus Kaiyote. I saw them at the Kings Arms earlier this year and they blew my mind. I can’t wait to see them again!
A: I’ve been listening to a lot of Hiatus Kaiyote recently too. I missed the gig Tali went to, so this will be my first time seeing them live.

Who are you looking forward to seeing?
T: Little Simz. She is a UK rapper who absolutely slays the mic. It’s always nice to see (and hopefully meet) other women doing a similar vibe.
A: I can’t pick just one act, but I am really looking forward to seeing The Correspondents, Little Simz and Leftfield.

What activities are you most looking forward to?
T: Last year there were some art sculptures and installations that they had going up one of the hills. I heard they were all lit up at night and looked amazing but I never got to see them. I hope they are there again this year so I can see them – if the vibe happens to take me that way!
A: Russell Brown is hosting some discussions at Splore, and my good friend and blog partner Richie Hardcore is speaking at one of them, so I’m curious to check it out.

Who does the best breakfast/lunch/dinner on site?
T: My husband! We bring our own.
A: I can’t go past the Nice Blocks stand.

Camping, glamping, teepee-ing, theme camping…what do you recommend?
T: I have camped since I was a little girl. It’s easy enough to make your own experience a ‘glamping’ one if you can’t afford the actual thing. My husband and I take a big tent with a blow up bed, linen, quilts and feather pillows. I would still like to experience staying in a teepee one day as then I’d have less to think about when packing.
A: Last year I hired an old-school caravan and decorated it with cute battery powered fairy lights. I’m not averse to camping in a tent though, I’m just a bit useless at putting up a tent. This year I’m going to try out glamping, which I’m very excited about.

What can we expect from your set this year?
T: Deep House vibes and some wonky techy bass laced with uplifting soulful lyrics – all brought to you by two sexy, strong Wahine!
A: What Tali said.

What’s your best memory from last year?
T: My set with Aroha without a doubt, which is why I am so excited to be performing with her again.
A: Last year Tali decided to jump on the mic with me last minute; it was totally impromptu. It was an especially good feeling to see so many people at our set, with a line outside the main entrance to our zone to get in.

What’s your Splore survival tip?
T: A little afternoon nap each day will ensure you are ready to roll through the night.
A: Drinks lots of water and stretch, you’ll be walking and dancing a lot.