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Metallica Make Long-Awaited New Zealand Comeback After 15 Years — 3 Major Takeaways
Nov
Metallica’s long-awaited return to New Zealand proved nothing short of electric.
After a 15-year absence, the legendary metal band finally touched down in Aotearoa, taking over Auckland’s Eden Park on Wednesday night (November 19th) with a thunderous performance packed with classics and fan favorites. Tone Deaf was on site to take it all in—here are our three big takeaways.
- Kiwi Covers Done Right
The “doodle” section of Metallica’s M72 World Tour has become a beloved surprise for fans across the globe, with Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo paying tribute to each city by covering local artists. New Zealand was no exception, and the moment became one of the night’s most joyful highlights.
Hammett and Trujillo launched into two homegrown staples: Split Enz’s “I Got You” and Six60’s “Don’t Forget Your Roots.”
What could have come across as a quick gimmick instead felt like an authentic nod to Aotearoa’s musical history—and a heartfelt gesture toward fans who’ve been waiting a decade and a half for Metallica’s return.
Their recent Australian dates also showcased regional tributes, including John Butler Trio’s “Zebra,” The Angels’ “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again,” and The Chats’ “Smoko,” among other beloved anthems.
- No Signs of Slowing Down
Anyone wondering whether Metallica might finally be feeling their age got their answer quickly—the band remains as fierce and precise as ever. Even in their 60s, the quartet tore through their set with the energy and tightness that has defined their storied career.
James Hetfield’s vocals were commanding and full of grit, and at one point he reminded the 55,000-strong crowd, “I have the best job in the whole fucking world.”
The group crushed essentials like “Master of Puppets,” but it was the intensity behind deeper cuts—such as “Harvester of Sorrow”—that truly highlighted how sharp they still are.
As Rolling Stone AU/NZ wrote in their glowing five-star review:
“Even past their supposed prime, Metallica not only sound tighter than ever but as passionate about their craft as when they were just starting out.”
At this rate, Kiwi fans shouldn’t be surprised if the band returns in another 15 years—still roaring, even in their 70s.
- A Setlist That Spanned Every Era
Rather than stacking the show with tracks from 72 Seasons, Metallica opted for a wide-ranging set that felt like a thank-you to the fans who’ve stuck with them through every reinvention.
They kicked things off with the explosive “Creeping Death,” setting the tone for a night that traveled through multiple chapters of their history. Staples like “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “The Unforgiven,” “Sad But True,” and “Seek & Destroy” kept the stadium at full tilt, while newer songs blended seamlessly into the flow.
And, in classic Metallica fashion, they saved their heaviest hitters for the stormy finale—quite literally. As rain poured down, the band unleashed a powerhouse closing trio: “Master of Puppets,” “One,” and the eternal crowd-pleaser “Enter Sandman.”
Metallica’s triumphant return to New Zealand didn’t just meet expectations—it shattered them, proving once again why they remain one of the greatest live bands on the planet.
