Rockquest

The Rockquest is a battle of the bands type competition for secondary school bands. It began life as a local Christchurch event in 1988. In 1990 it became a nationwide competition, including Waikato and four other regions. Smokefree began its association with the event in 1991, which has continued ever since. Notable alumni of the competition include Bic Runga (1993), Anika Moa (1998), Evermore (2000), Nesian Mystik (2000) and The Have (2002).

Hamilton bands that have competed at the Rockquest at either a regional or national level include Handsome Geoffrey, Death of a Monkey, Valhalla, No Thrills, Nozzle, Grinners, Diastop and Atomic Garage. Most successful was Handsome Geoffrey, who won the 1998 national event.