Review: Lorde’s sweaty, sublime, superstar return to Christchurch
Christchurch, New Zealand, witnessed a captivating performance by Lorde at Wolfbrook Arena on February 13, 2026, as part of her Ultrasound World Tour. The concert, described as a “sublime techno-frenzy,” marked a significant departure from her previous, sun-soaked Solar Power set.
A Transformative Performance
Lorde’s return to Ōtautahi, her first headlining show there since Electric Avenue in 2023, was characterized by a bold and revealing stage presence. During the performance of “Current Affairs,” she removed layers of clothing, culminating in a sweat-soaked pair of Calvin Klein underwear, a move described as “the most assured down trou” ever seen.
The stage itself was a dynamic element of the show, featuring monolithic speaker stacks, screens within screens, and a setup that allowed dancers to move freely, swinging from lighting rigs and scaling speakers. Lorde herself utilized a treadmill during a performance of “Supercut,” blending technology and physicality.
Connection with the Audience
Lorde engaged with the diverse crowd – including families, Gen Z fans, and even some rugby watchers – expressing gratitude for their support throughout her career, which began with “Royals” in 2013. She acknowledged the reciprocal relationship with her fans, stating, “tell you how lucky I feel that you have loved me right through all my stages, and that these songs are our songs now.”
The show included symbolic elements from her album Virgin, such as an iridescent rainbow water bottle and bare duct taped chest during “Man of the Year,” as well as references to her earlier work, like a black fishnet shrug worn during “If She Could See Me Now.”
A Powerful Finale
The concert culminated in a euphoric closing sequence featuring “Team” (lit with the colours of the Palestinian flag), “What Was That,” and “Green Light.” Lorde ended the show by walking through the crowd during “David,” her LED jacket illuminating the darkness. She sang the lyric, “I made you God ’cause it was all / That I knew how to do,” a sentiment that resonated with the audience.
An encore performance of “Ribs” on a small stage at the back of the arena left one concertgoer feeling as though they had “seen God,” or perhaps, “Lorde, even.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What tour is Lorde currently on?
Lorde is currently on her Ultrasound World Tour.
Where did Lorde perform in Christchurch?
Lorde performed at Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch.
What was unique about Lorde’s performance during “Current Affairs”?
During “Current Affairs,” Lorde removed layers of clothing, eventually revealing a sweat-soaked pair of blood red Calvin Klein underwear.
What does it mean for an artist to continually evolve their performance style while maintaining a connection with their long-time fans?