Ready To Bring The Ding? Spark’s Public Triangle Audition Hits A High Note With Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra

Friday, 11 July 2025, 2:18 pm
Press Release: Spark NZ

Spark is turning one everyday New Zealander into the most unexpected star of Duco Events’ brand-new Full Metal Orchestra, from the team behind SYNTHONY – handing them the honour of striking a single, show-stopping triangle note during their performance of the System of a Down song, Aerials at Spark Arena later this month.

This activation is part of Spark’s renewed partnership with Spark Arena through to 2030 – reaffirming its commitment to bring New Zealanders closer to the music, not just through access to gigs at the country’s biggest indoor venue and a decade long partnership with Spotify, but by placing one lucky winner centre stage, within the music performance itself.

Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra will debut on 26 July at Spark Arena. This will mark the first time the team behind SYNTHONY and Come Together has brought rock and metal legends alongside a 29-piece classical orchestra to the stage, and the first time Spark Arena has hosted back-to-back concerts in a single night with SYNTHONY Origins bookending the evening.

The ‘Bring the ding’ Experience: From Square to Stage

The journey kicks off at a one-of-a-kind triangle audition booth popping up in Auckland’s Takutai Square, Britomart on 17 and 18 July. Designed to feel like a cross between a high tech recording studio and a live stage, the booth invites anyone to step inside, strike the triangle in time with the music, and get instantly scored on timing, flair and stage presence.

From these auditions, a winner will be chosen and invited to Spark’s VIP hospitality suite, the S Lounge at Spark Arena, on show night. There, a video of their audition will be played to the entire arena, sharing the story of how they came to be Full Metal Orchestra’s newest triangle-playing superstar.

The Finale

On the night, the winner will join the 29-piece orchestra, taking centre stage at Spark Arena to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime note in front of thousands.

With pre-sale tickets, behind-the-scenes experiences, exclusive Front Row access to see the live orchestra and rock band up close and premium entry to the S Lounge, Spark is getting New Zealanders closer than ever before to the music.

© Scoop Media