Greenspikes – DIY Punk In The Country!
Greenspikes was a laid-back, DIY punk festival held over Easter weekend from March 29 to April 1, 2002, at Marama-iti, a bush location about 8km outside Whanganui, New Zealand.
Organised by Geoff, the publisher of the anarchist zine Little Guy With Big Hopes, it was pitched as “a gathering of punk freaks who want out of the city and a chance to hang out with friends and listen to some cool music. We’re only limited by our imaginations…”
The event brought together punk and related acts from around the country, featuring a diverse mix of styles. Highlights included Wellington bands like the Carnys, Padded Cell, and School of Meat; G.M.C from Palmerston North; The Rudies and Missing Teeth from Auckland; Johnny Christ from Nelson; plus performances from Imon Star (dub reggae) and The Sound Laydee (synth hip hop/ punk).
Attendees were encouraged to bring a positive attitude, along with essentials like a tent, sleeping gear, suitable clothing (for unpredictable weather), food or money for shared meals, plates, cups, tea towels, and any favourite entertainment. The site offered water, power, cooking facilities, a large indoor area, one long-drop toilet, nearby swimming, a safe space for kids to roam, and plenty of peace and quiet in a minimal-plans, DIY spirit.
There were no showers, no phone or cell coverage, no nearby shops, and explicitly no desire to entertain or police anyone- true to its anarchist, self-reliant ethos.
