The People is a five-piece rock band from North Auckland, aged 16–18, making waves in the New Zealand music scene with their explosive live performances and powerful sound. Fronted by Sienna Stevenson (lead vocals), with Liam Aalders (lead guitar), Nick Williams (rhythm guitar), Jess Quayle (bass), and Caleb Gardner (drums), the band combines tight musicianship with undeniable energy on stage.
Their original music blends alternative hard rock and pop rock, alongside an impressive catalogue of covers that spans all rock genres. Whether delivering heavy riffs or recognizable songs, The People bring a versatility that keeps every crowd engaged from the first song to the last.
In the past few years of being together, the band has reached significant milestones. They’ve played shows alongside established acts such as Automatic 80s, Wheres Jai, and Fan Club, proving they can hold their own on stages with seasoned performers. In 2024, they became the only under-18 band to reach the Auckland finals of Battle of the Bands, a major achievement that set them apart as one of the country’s most promising young groups.
Most recently, just last month, The People broke through on a national level, placing in the Top 20 bands across over 900 bands in New Zealand at Smokefree Rockquest 2025. This recognition cemented their reputation as a serious force in the next generation of rock, showcasing both their songwriting talent and their live performance strength.
Keep an eye out for The People!
The People were be supported tonight by Text2Speech and Aortic.
Photography by Leonie Moreland
The People
Text2Speech
Aorta
