UK pop star Robbie Williams will be playing two New Zealand shows later this year, helped by the Government's $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package.
The singer will play a show at Auckland's Eden Park on November 24, followed by a performance at Christchurch's new One New Zealand Stadium on November 28.
He will be the first international music act to play at the stadium.
"Australia and New Zealand have always had a very special place in my heart. Ever since my first solo tours, you have welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home," Williams said in a statement.
The tour is being brought to New Zealand with the help of the Government's Major Events and Tourism Package – a $70 million effort to lure major events to the country and boost tourism.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said shows like the one announced by Williams would "bring a significant economic injection into our cities and create a real buzz".
She said that without help from the Government, New Zealand would have been skipped by the tour.
"It’s been calculated that for every dollar spent on live performance, $3.20 is returned in benefits to the wider community, and that’s why we’re investing in them.
“Robbie Williams is a master entertainer who can sell out stadiums like Eden Park and One New Zealand. This event has been considered for its capacity to attract large audiences and international visitors.
“As well as entertainment, the economic benefits of concerts are huge – and that’s why our Government is supporting them. Hotels fill up, restaurants and cafes thrive, tills ring, and local businesses see a surge in customers."
Williams last visited New Zealand in 2023.
Other events announced through the package were Linkin Park's show in Auckland tonight, the Ultra Music Festival in Wellington, the FIFA World Series in Auckland, and the WSL Championship Tour in Raglan.
The tour announcement comes as homegrown New Zealand events, such as music festivals, face a challenging period.
The organiser says shrinking numbers and rising costs are to blame. (Source: 1News)
Splore Festival was the latest casualty, holding its last event earlier this year.
Organisers had applied for the Major Events and Tourism funding package, but were unsuccessful.
Upston said at the time the fund was not designed to rescue struggling festivals.
"I accept it’s really challenging for organisers of events that have been in a bit of a downward spiral," she said.
"But the fund wasn’t set up to rescue events that were in decline, and I don’t believe that would be responsible use of taxpayer money."
The morning's headlines in 90 seconds, including Chris Hipkins on the legal advice he’s taking after his ex wife’s Facebook posts, and the first major act to play at Christchurch’s new stadium. (Source: 1News)
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