Otautahi 4 Aotearoa concert to raise money for cyclone victims in Aotearoa
Tuesday 21 February 2023
Cyclone Gabrielle has brought devastation to communities throughout our beautiful Aotearoa. The destruction seen particularly in Tairāwhiti, Hawke’s Bay, Northland and the West Coast of Tāmaki Makaurau is hard to comprehend, the impacts of which will be felt for years to come.
It has been encouraging to see the spirit of manaakitanga or care and compassion alive and well with so many people pitching in, using their skills and resources to help these affected communities.
As a music community, bringing people together through music is a powerful way to help others. On Friday 24 February at The Christchurch Town Hall, members of Aotearoa’s music community will come together to help in the immediate aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle with a fundraising show of which all profits will be donated to The Red Cross New Zealand Disaster Fund.
Featuring performances from Neil Finn, Lorde, L.A.B., Marlon Williams, Supergroove, Tiki Taane, Lee Mvtthews, PRINS, 1 Drop Nation, Emma Dilemma and Big Sima and hosted by Ōtautahi’s own Mike McRoberts, Christchurch is encouraged to dig deep and turn up to support the relief efforts.
“Last week we watched and took shelter as a devastating cyclone wreaked havoc throughout NZ . It seems natural and fitting that we gather together now , play music and raise money for the people whose lives and livelihoods have been upended . I am grateful to have this opportunity to lend a hand . Already many of NZ’s finest musicians have put their hands up too . A night of diverse and magical music is assured at the Christchurch Town Hall on Friday. It’s our show of solidarity and support.”– Neil Finn
“When Brent (Eccles) called me on Thursday with the idea, we were all in. Having experienced the devastating earthquakes here in Christchurch, we understand the pain and the long road ahead.
We’re blessed with talent on the line-up with having so many great artists in the city that weekend for Electric Avenue - So many of them want to be a part of what’s shaping up to be a really special show.” – Callam Mitchell Director, Team Event (Electric Avenue)
“This seemed like a perfect opportunity for us to help our communities in need. In hearing what we were doing, Neil Finn, Lorde and L.A.B. were the first to put their hands up. I know that they will verbalise our emotions and feelings so well as will all the rangatira we have performing that night..” – Brent Eccles (Eccles Entertainment)
“New Zealand Red Cross are proud to be teaming up with Eccles Entertainment and Team Event to support those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle and help ensure that Aotearoa New Zealand is well prepared for emergencies in the future.” - Shane Chisholm General Manager Engagement & Enterprise, Red Cross New Zealand.
Tickets are $129.90 (credit card fee will apply) and all profits from the event will be donated to The Red Cross New Zealand Disaster Fund.
We would like to acknowledge these artists, crew people, Venues Ōtautahi and the many behind the scenes facilitators who are giving their time, talents, venue and resources for free.
Tickets are on sale 2pm today (Tuesday 21 February) from ticketek.co.nz. Those who cannot make the show are able to donate to The Red Cross New Zealand Disaster Fund at redcross.org.nz