In an unexpected twist on how we discover music, Auckland’s laundromats are becoming unlikely stages for Aotearoa’s hidden gems. This May, a public art project called Fresh Laundry is transforming ordinary washing machines into jukeboxes, spinning unreleased “C-sides” by local artists for anyone waiting on a spin cycle. The initiative, launched during NZ Music Month, aims to celebrate the diverse soundscape of New Zealand while turning mundane chores into moments of serendipitous discovery.
Unlike mainstream playlists or streaming platforms, Fresh Laundry focuses on music that has never seen the light of day—songs recorded by artists but left unreleased, often gathering dust on hard drives. The project’s curators describe these “C-sides” as the musical equivalent of hidden treasures, waiting to be unearthed. “Laundromats suspend time in an unusual, wonderful way,” says Jefferson Chen, known professionally as Goodspace and serving as the project’s Creative Director. “And people are more receptive to what’s in front of them.”
The installation features five repurposed washing machines, each outfitted with jukebox-style interfaces, installed in laundromats across Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland). From May 1 to May 31, 2026, the machines will play a specially curated album of Aotearoa C-sides, offering passersby a chance to stumble upon music they might never encounter elsewhere. The project is part of a broader effort to breathe new life into the city’s public spaces and introduce small joys into daily routines.
What Are C-Sides, and Why Do They Matter?
The term “C-side” refers to music that doesn’t fit neatly into the traditional A-side/B-side structure of singles or albums. These tracks might be demos, experimental pieces, or songs recorded for personal satisfaction rather than commercial release. For artists in Aotearoa, many of these recordings exist only in private collections or digital archives, untouched by wider audiences. Fresh Laundry seeks to change that by giving these songs a physical presence in public spaces.
According to the project’s organizers, the compilation is genre-agnostic—length and style don’t matter. The goal is to highlight the breadth of Aotearoa’s musical talent, from established names to emerging voices. “The compilation aims to unearth and celebrate the rich, diverse soundscape of Aotearoa,” Chen explains, emphasizing that the project is as much about the spaces where we listen to music as it is about the music itself.
Auckland Laundromats as Cultural Hubs
Fresh Laundry isn’t just about music; it’s about reimagining how we engage with art in everyday settings. Laundromats, often overlooked as spaces for creativity, become temporary galleries where music, time, and community intersect. The project’s timing—during NZ Music Month—aligns with a broader cultural push to recognize the contributions of local artists and the stories behind their work.
The initiative also serves as a call to action for artists across Aotearoa. As of March 31, 2026, submissions for unreleased C-sides were open, inviting musicians to share their hidden tracks. The response has been overwhelming, with artists seeing the project as an opportunity to share their work in a unique, low-pressure environment. “Got a C-Side?” reads the project’s tagline, urging creators to contribute to the collective soundscape.
How to Experience Fresh Laundry
Visitors to participating laundromats in Auckland can interact with the washing machine jukeboxes by selecting a track, much like they would with a traditional jukebox. The machines are designed to be intuitive, allowing anyone—regardless of musical background—to explore the compilation. While the exact locations of the laundromats haven’t been publicly listed, the project’s organizers encourage residents to visit local laundromats during May to experience the installation firsthand.
For those unable to visit in person, the Fresh Laundry album will also be available for streaming or download, ensuring that the music reaches a wider audience beyond the laundromats. This dual approach—physical and digital—reflects the project’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
The Broader Impact: Art, Community, and Discovery
Fresh Laundry is part of a growing trend in public art that prioritizes interaction and spontaneity. By placing music in an unexpected setting, the project challenges listeners to gradual down and engage with art in a way that’s often lost in the digital age. “It’s a project that highlights the importance of the spaces in which we listen to music,” Chen notes, adding that such moments of discovery can turn ordinary activities into memorable experiences.
The initiative also underscores the role of public spaces in fostering cultural exchange. Laundromats, with their transient populations and shared experiences, become microcosms of community. Fresh Laundry leverages this dynamic to create connections between artists, listeners, and the city itself.
What’s Next for Fresh Laundry?
While the current installation runs through May 31, 2026, the project’s organizers have hinted at potential expansions or iterations in the future. Whether through additional laundromat installations, digital releases, or live performances, Fresh Laundry aims to remain a platform for discovering and celebrating Aotearoa’s musical diversity. For now, the focus is on the May launch, but the project’s success could pave the way for similar initiatives in other cities.
Artists interested in contributing to future compilations can follow updates through NZ Music Month or the project’s official channels. Meanwhile, Auckland residents are encouraged to visit participating laundromats and immerse themselves in the unexpected sounds of Fresh Laundry.
Have you discovered a hidden musical gem through an unlikely source? Share your experiences in the comments below or tag @WorldTodayJrnl to join the conversation. Together, One can celebrate the art that surrounds us—even in the spin cycle.