If you want to know what makes heavy metal music special in New Zealand, you need to hear what Ben Mulchin has to say! Ben runs Valhalla, a famous music venue in Wellington, and he’s been part of New Zealand’s heavy metal scene for over 10 years. In his podcast interview, Ben talks all about heavy metal culture in New Zealand, the people who love it, and how the community comes together through music.
What is Heavy Metal Music?
Heavy metal is a type of music known for being loud, energetic, and full of passion. People who listen to metal often feel a strong connection to the music and to each other. It isn’t just music; it’s a way of life for many people. Some say it’s like a big family!
How Did Ben Get Into Heavy Metal?
Ben loved music from a young age. Even before he started running Valhalla, he went to many concerts with friends. He said it helped shape who he is today. Ben also worked as a scientist for a while, but he always came back to music as his true passion.
What Is Valhalla?
Valhalla is a special place in Wellington. It’s more than just a music club – it’s home for heavy metal fans. Ben took over Valhalla about 11 or 12 years ago. He wanted to create a place where everyone could enjoy heavy music, feel welcome, and be themselves.
The Culture of Heavy Metal in New Zealand
A Tight Community:
Ben explains that the heavy metal scene in New Zealand is like a big group of friends. Even though New Zealand is a small country, the people who love metal are very close. They help each other out, go to each other’s shows, and support new bands. When someone releases new music or plays at a venue, lots of people show up to cheer them on.
Different Styles:
While heavy metal is at the heart of Valhalla, there are lots of different styles, like hardcore, screamo, and metalcore. Every few years, what’s popular can change, but the feeling stays the same – people want to listen to music that makes them feel strong and happy!
Young and Old:
Metal is for everyone. Ben says some people who liked metal as kids are now adults with jobs and families, but they still come to shows. There are also young people joining the scene, starting new bands, and keeping the music alive.
What’s Special About Metal in NZ?
Everyone Is Welcome:
The heavy metal scene tries to include everyone, no matter how old they are or what their background is. Ben makes sure Valhalla is a place where everyone can join the fun, even if they’re just getting into metal for the first time.
Support for Local Bands:
Valhalla gives local bands a stage to perform. Some bands play for fun, while others become famous and even go on tour to other countries like Japan or Europe! Metal bands in New Zealand often help each other, sharing fans and making sure everyone gets a chance to shine.
Exciting Shows:
Concerts aren’t just about listening to music—they are an adventure! Sometimes there are wild moments, like a musician walking on top of the crowd to get a drink, or a band doing something funny or surprising. Every show is different.
How Does Heavy Metal Make People Feel?
Metal music can help people feel better when they’re sad or stressed. Ben says music can change your mood and help you see things differently. At concerts, people can dance, jump, and let their feelings out in a safe place. Metal connects people and helps them feel like they belong.
The Changing Scene
Ben talks about how different towns in New Zealand each have their own music communities. Wellington is special because it’s easy to put on a show and people will come, even if they don’t know the band. Christchurch, Dunedin, and Auckland each have their own style too.
Over the years, new trends have come and gone, but the heart of metal in NZ stays the same. People are always starting new bands, helping with shows, and making sure the scene keeps going.
Challenges and Hopes
Running a venue like Valhalla isn’t always easy. There are bills to pay and lots of work behind the scenes. Ben hopes that more young people will start bands, set up shows, and keep the metal community strong. He’d also like to see more festivals and maybe even concerts outside in nature!
Final Thoughts
Heavy metal in New Zealand is more than just music. It’s about friendship, supporting each other, and having a place to belong. Ben thinks of heavy metal as a “philosophy” – a way of thinking and living. People come together at places like Valhalla to share great music, feel powerful, and make memories.
If you’re interested in music and want to join a fun, welcoming community, you should check out a heavy metal show in New Zealand. You might just find your new favorite band—and a group of friends for life!
You can find Ben here:
https://www.valhallatavern.com/valhallatouring
You can watch the video here: