A 20,000-strong crowd attended Raggamuffin's 5th anniversary concert in Rotorua on Saturday with a further 4,500 attending on Friday night, making the two-day music festival the great success story of summer.

Promoter Andrew McManus was thrilled with the attendance, saying it was the "best Raggamuffin yet".

"Raggamuffin was the great success story of summer," says McManus. "We bought the hottest acts and the fans responded. We are looking forward to announcing the date for 2013 in the coming months."

The line-up for the two day music festival included Ali Campbell's UB40, Spawnbreezie, J.Boog, Billy Ocean, Sly & Robbie, Arrested Development, Junior Marvin, Big Mountain and Nkulee Dube.

New Zealand bands included Kora, Katchafire, Three Houses Down, House of Shem, Cornerstone Roots, Sons of Zion, Sweet & Irie, Tomorrow People, Soljah, NRG Rising, Foundation, Chad Chambers and Rubber Band.

The bands were spread over two stages and two days, kicking off with the Mai FM Party on Friday evening that featured four local and international bands, markets and various activities to keep the crown entertained.

McManus says 2012 saw Raggamuffin evolve into a fully-fledged festival, with more stages and activities. It also attracted masses of first-time festival fans.

"The future is very bright for Raggamuffin in New Zealand," says McManus. "We are very proud of the event we've created in Rotorua and we are thrilled that we continue to gain the support of fans."

Thousands of fans have been posting comments on the Raggamuffin Facebook page since Saturday. 

"Had the best time down at raggaz this year ... bring on 2013."

"Raggamuffin was awesome this year. Best long weekend I've had so far!!!"

"Big la la la la Luv and thankz to the Raggamuffin Team great to see such world class talent all in one day including our own cant wait till Raggamuffin 2013."