Hawke's Bay is buzzing with excitement as international pop sensation Robbie Williams takes centre stage for a highly anticipated sold-out concert this weekend.
The show at the Mission Estate Winery marks the beginning of Williams' world tour and is his only show in New Zealand.
Known for rocking out for an impressive 25 years, Williams has garnered a massive global following. Now, Hawke's Bay is gearing up to 'feel' the real love of the iconic entertainer.
Diehard fans in the region are eagerly counting down the days to the epic weekend.
"It's going to be an epic weekend, the place to be," devoted fan Andrea Taaffe told 1News.
Another fan, Rebecca Henley, said she was "beyond excited" for the performance on Saturday.
She added, "Not sure if my husband's in agreement, but he's been my free pass for 20 years, and it's never going to change."
The enthusiasm extends beyond borders, with fans like Andy Turley traveling all the way from the UK.
"When we heard Robbie was playing at the Mission, it was just a no-brainer. We just had to come," Turley said.
The Mission Estate Winery is witnessing preparations on an unprecedented scale. The stage being set up for the event surpasses even the grandeur of Elton John's rig. Approximately 50,000 Robbie fans are expected to fill the venue over the two days. Williams brings with him an entourage of around 80 people, including dancers and band members.
Event manager Garry Craft said the venue is a unique one – and not just because of its stunning views.
"It's also a sheep paddock for 50 weeks of the year. Everyone wants to be a part of the 1000 working crew," he said.
Beyond the thrill of the concert, the weekend is poised to deliver a substantial economic boost to the region. Estimates suggest a staggering $8-9 million cash injection into the local economy.
Hawke's Bay Tourism's Hamish Saxton said concertgoers "are coming from all across the country".
"Air New Zealand has had to put extra flights on," he said.
Accommodation in the area is completely booked out, with i-SITE Napier running a waitlist for those still in need of a place to stay.
Taaffe said the concert "is just a way for us to get together as a region and celebrate what we do here with our horticulture, agriculture, our wines, our food".
"To kick it off on Friday is just fantastic – super, super happy."
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