Weather fails to dampen pipers’ spirits

The host pipe band, the ILT City of Invercargill Highland Pipe Band, during the street march at...
The host pipe band, the ILT City of Invercargill Highland Pipe Band, during the street march at the 2025 New Zealand Pipe Band Championships on Saturday. PHOTO: COLLEEN MONTGOMERY / SUPPLIED
The wet weather in Invercargill on Saturday did not dampen the spirits of the pipe bands that competed on the last day of this year’s New Zealand Pipe Band Championship.

The event attracted more than 1000 performers — including the best of the best in their field — to the deep south to compete in the second-largest pipe band competition in the world.

Royal New Zealand Pipe Bands’ Association president Liam Kernaghan said the event was a success.

"The performances right throughout the weekend were spectacular and we had some great music on show from all 57 bands.

"Invercargill is always a great host.

"Whether it’s the southern hospitality or just the people and the public that come and watch it, we’re always treated very well in Invercargill."

The event on Saturday started with the traditional street march when the performers had to face the wet weather while showcasing their skills.

However, Mr Kernaghan said that was not a problem for them.

"It got a little bit in the way, but pipe bands are hearty people and they just get on with it.

"We’re very grateful for the bands just continuing to get on with it, even when the weather was a little bit inclement."

The host pipe band, the ILT City of Invercargill, was champion in the 4B grade category.

The Manawatu Scottish Pipe Band and St Andrew’s College were named grade 1 and juvenile champions respectively.

Next year the nationals will be held in Inglewood, just outside of New Plymouth.

luisa.girao@odt.co.nz