Our History

1991 – Richard Jackman had come from a professional musical background in Liverpool/London. He had a record contract with Arista Records and publishing contract with Warner Chappell.  Whilst signed he released several singles and toured with numerous artists including The Temptations. When he came to New Zealand in late 1991 he worked briefly for Mathers Music, but always felt he would like to do it “his way”. Being a musician Richard knew instinctively how to help customers fulfill their needs and dreams and enjoyed making it happen for them.

1993 – November 5^th The Music Machine opened its doors. The first shop was small, but was backed, with great support, by all of the Hawke’s Bay musicians and musical community, as they recognized Richards drive, humour and cheerful nature and that it was a music shop run by musicians for musicians of all ages and stages. The shop grew quickly as word spread and the Music Machine moved to larger premises.  Within this time Friday night jams at the shop became legendary. A great hub for all musicians to meet, jam, exchange ideas and form bands. Richard continued to play with local musicians and enjoys watching all the local talent. One Friday night Billy Gibbons was coaxed with a few beers to join in.

2000 – Music Machine moved again to even larger premises and had a small shop in Hastings. By this time the Music Machines reputation was established and was supplying several of the schools churches, and other community groups embracing music.  Music Works recognising the popularity of the shop offered its products to bolster an already expansive selection of musical gear.

2004 – Jeff joined full time in 2004 but had for a few years before that been helping Chrissy with the computer and Richard out whenever he was in making himself invaluable. Jeff brought a fresh prospective and his knowledge of gear with an expertise in recording, pedals was instrumental in adding a new dimension, reflecting the increasing variety of music. Jeff is also a professional musician being part of the band Jakob

2006 – Charlie joined after his school work experience. He just didn’t go back to school.  His enthusiasm, dedication made him a favourite with the local musicians and customers.  His knowledge of computers pushed the shops online presence forward. He also plays guitar in his band which won a competition to perform in England and Europe. He is very popular in all the schools he taught, always ready to help when needed. (update: Charlie is now busy running his online guitar lesson website https://www.guitarmasterymethod.com/  )

2016 – Bysshe joined 2016.  He is one of the most respected guitarists in Hawke’s Bay.  He has quickly become popular and has a very good knowledge of all products. Bysshe is tailor-made for the Music Machine with his humour, and expertise he is also very helpful obliging and polite.

Other music shops opened and closed but the Music Machine prevailed  by sticking to its  core belief  to do the Best Deals,  do not sell what you know is not right for  that person and advise as professionally and fairly as you can. Thus ensuring the customer leaves happy confident in knowing a back-up service is very important to all who work at the Music Machine.

The Music Machine is now located in the beautiful Harstons Building which was the first music shop in Napier and continues to go from strength to strength.