

Acoustic duo, but with the energy of a full band.
Why Copper Skies?
“Planning an event can be stressful - but the music doesn’t have to be. We bring the fun, read the room, and keep the energy exactly where it needs to be.”
Sam and James are one of the most in-demand acts in the Bay of Plenty. So much so, they left their day jobs to perform full-time. With over 200 weddings and corporate events under their belt, they’ve become the go-to covers duo in Tauranga.
Don’t let the duo format fool you - Copper Skies delivers the energy of a full band. With 16+ years of combined professional experience, they know how to read a crowd, fill a dance floor, and keep the party going.
Their massive setlist spans Rock, Country, Blues, Folk, and Pop from every era, and they come fully equipped with pro sound, lighting, and even a generator when needed.

Watch Us Perform
Watch us perform and see why we’re Bay of Plenty’s most sought-after duo
Upcoming Public Shows
Catch us live at these venues - all shows are free entry!
Gallery
Moments from our performances






Get in Touch
No robots here - this is direct to us. Feel free to call, text or email!
What Our Clients Say
Read reviews from our amazing clients who have experienced our live music at their special events.
Jess & Jacob
We had Sam and James and they were absolutely UNREAL! They really were one of the highlights of our wedding day and everyone has been raving about them since saying WOW your band! Who are they, we wan...
Grace Mason
We used Sam and James and we honestly could not recommend them highly enough. Our guests are RAVING about them and we had the dancefloor of our dreams. Sam and James had never played at our venue befo...
Olivia Dobbs
Sam & James played for us at a wrap-party for a staff conference. They were fantastic and understood the energy required throughout the evening. They were great to deal with and even let one of our st...
Tracy & Tara
My twin sister and I had our 50th birthday celebrations in Taupo. Sam and James were truly legendary, they read the crowd perfectly and had everyone up and dancing the entire night. They brought so mu...
Emma Langman
You will not find better than Sam and James! These guys are seriously outstanding and had our dance floor cranking the whole night. Amazingly talented and seemed to enjoy themselves as much as we did....
Olivia Hopkins
Sam and James were absolutely incredible at our wedding. They nailed our entrance songs, Kept the dancefloor going all night, were so funny and created the best atmosphere! Couldn't recommend them eno...
Frequently Asked Questions
We're full-time musicians who've played hundreds of events across New Zealand — from unforgettable weddings to relaxed beachside birthdays, buzzing corporate events, and rowdy bar gigs. Whether it's a black-tie function or a backyard party, we know how to read the room and bring exactly the right energy.
We cover a wide mix of rock, country, pop, blues, folk, and a touch of Irish. Think crowd favourites, modern hits, throwbacks, and unexpected gems — all with our own spin and signature harmonies. We tailor every set to your event, whether that's mellow and acoustic or high-energy and dance-floor ready.
Ceremony music is something we take seriously. We'll work with you to choose the perfect songs for walking down the aisle, signing the register, and making your grand exit. We can perform these moments live, or we can use Spotify through our equipment if you want a specific version of a song played at just the right moment.
Yes, absolutely. We often provide live music for the entire day — from the ceremony, to the afternoon canapés and cocktail hour, through to a full three-hour dance floor set at the reception. We can take care of it all and keep the vibe flowing from start to finish.
We're based in Mount Maunganui and regularly perform across Tauranga, the Bay of Plenty, and anywhere in New Zealand that calls for great live music. If the event's right, we'll hit the road — or the skies.
We know how to keep things professional and fun. With years of experience and a huge repertoire, we adjust to suit your vibe — whether you want smooth background music during networking or a high-energy set to close the night.