PŌNEKE-BASED ARTIST MO ETC. ANNOUNCED AS VODAFONE AND LIVE NATION’S FIRST MONTHLY ARTIST OF 2022

It’s been over one year since Live Nation & Vodafone came together to launch the Aotearoa branch of ONES TO WATCH, a monthly programme that helps boost up-and-coming Kiwi musicians and puts them on a global stage. Today, the platform has announced that soulful Wellingtonian Moana Ete, better known as Mo Etc., will be featured as the first artist of 2022.

With formal theatre, dance and acting training (from Aotearoa’s premiere drama school Toi Whakaari) under her belt, singer-songwriter Mo Etc. is no stranger to the local entertainment world. This triple-threat got her start at Kiwi music competition Rockquest, a national high school music competition that has helped discover artists across the country. Moana entered the competition in her last year of high school, coming third overall and giving her the confidence to pursue music as a career.

Moana partially credits her musical abilities to growing up in a Samoan and Māori family. Her Samoan side were big church-goers and participating in the choir helped her understand the basics when it comes to music. “It showed me the basics of you know, how to sing a melody or a harmony, or even how to find a harmony. I really learnt all the basics through there.”

Earlier in 2021, Mo Etc. released her debut album ‘Oceanbed’, which she mixed herself at home on Garageband. The album features the song that Moana claims to represent her most accurately, ‘Stay Awake’: “It’s like love songs that have a bit of a question mark – like ‘’I Love You?” It was like helping me figure it out what love is. Like it doesn’t feel conventional, it doesn’t look like what it is in the movies, it’s just a little bit different.”

Moana has shared the stage in the past, including in supergroup Fly My Pretties, appearing in the song ‘Mud and Stardust’ and touring with the band. She also fronted neo-soul electronic group A Girl Named Mo, who sold out five shows at Wellington’s Bats Theatre and released a live album after the performances.

On Mo Etc. becoming the next ONES TO WATCH artist, Live Nation promoter Mike Ross says: “We’re excited to be launching 2022 with such a promising emerging artist from our capital. Mo Etc.’s sound is soulful and unique, and we are so happy to spotlight her as part of this program”

2022 will see an exciting new slate of Kiwi musicians added to the ONES TO WATCH programmed in Aotearoa. Mo Etc. will join ONONO, Rhys Rich, There’s a Tuesday, Muroki, Daily J, Balu Brigada and more as she joins the programme’s alumni.

Launched in 2017 in the United States, ONES TO WATCH has helped boost the careers of artists now reaching global stages, including Halsey and Grammy-award winning Dua Lipa, who recently announced a global tour, including a New Zealand pit-stop, after a massive two years promoting her number one album, Future Nostalgia.

Joe Goddard, Experience & Commercial Director at Vodafone NZ is excited about Mo Etc.’s appointment into the ONES TO WATCH family: “Vodafone is committed to building a better Aotearoa for our rangatahi, so seeing Mo Etc.’s trajectory from Smokefree Rockquest contestant to ONES TO WATCH artist is stellar. We hope Kiwis across the country are adding her to their summer playlists.

After launching an exclusive long-term partnership in 2019, Live Nation Australasia and Vodafone New Zealand have provided Vodafone customers access to Live Nation’s entertainment portfolio including music, family and comedy tours and festivals across the country. The strategic multi-year partnership is committed to bringing the best live experiences to New Zealand and the best New Zealand artists to the world. The unique emerging talent platform of ONES TO WATCH builds on this strong partnership and a mutual dedication to support grassroots initiatives.

As well as access to the online platform, Vodafone customers will be given the chance to win tickets to the ONES TO WATCH invitation-only quarterly showcase events. More info and competition details available at: vodafonerewards.co.nz

27-YEAR-OLD WĀHINE OLIVIA SHIVAS WINS THE ATTITUDE ACC SUPREME AWARD AT THE 2021 ATTITUDE AWARDS

Olivia Shivas, reporter and podcast creator, has been announced as the winner of the prestigious Attitude ACC Supreme Award at the 2021 Attitude Awards. Now in their 14th year, the 2021 awards will be celebrated with a one-hour special airing on TVNZ1 on December 18th. The annual event recognises the achievements and successes of Kiwis in the disability sector.

Olivia is a reporter and homepage editor for Stuff, and in August launched a podcast on the website with friend, co-host, and former Attitude-recipient Rebecca Dubber. The podcast was initiated by Olivia and aims to share snippets of life and the questions they get as disabled Kiwis, with the aim of educating non-disabled New Zealanders on issues that are common in their community. Together, Olivia and Rebecca covered religion, dating, self-image, travel, and the representation of disability in mainstream media. Olivia initiated the podcast, from pitching the idea to senior staff, to leading the pre-production, producing, recording, interviewing, editing, post-production and distribution.

Olivia’s role at Stuff has also seen her become a consultant for their new Wellington office, to ensure an inclusive space for people with disabilities. Olivia gave recommendations on how to make the physical space more accessible based on her personal experience as a wheelchair user, with her suggestions adopted by other Stuff offices around Aotearoa. By her colleagues she’s described as a natural and approachable leader, and has helped train new staff upon their start at the company. A video from a training session with existing newsroom staff on how to accurately report on disability is kept as an education tool on the Stuff intranet.

Olivia is a regular volunteer for disability charities around the country. In 2016, she was voted onto the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s National Council as the Rangatahi Youth Representative for two years, where she reported on behalf of young Kiwis living with the disability. She became the youngest board member for StarJam, a not-for-profit organization providing free musical workshops for young people with disabilities. Before her appointment to the board, Olivia was an attendee of StarJam workshops for more than eight years. She’s also a volunteer with Radio Lollipop, which gives young patients at Starship a voice and provides a distraction during their hospital stay.

Olivia’s Supreme Award win was presented to her by Olympic gold medalist and Americas Cup sailor Blair Tuke. On her win, Olivia said: “I’m so honoured to have won the Attitude Supreme Award and Attitude Enterprise Award for our work on the podcast, but this isn’t about me. This is about all disabled people, acknowledging how far we’ve come for visibility and knowing there’s more work to be done for our equality. We set out to tell authentic stories about disabled people to reshape the way we are portrayed in the mainstream media. The way others see us and how we see ourselves and our potential impacts our real lives and what people expect from us, so here’s to telling more authentic stories and fighting ableism.

Congratulations to the other Attitude Awards finalists and winners. Seeing the calibre of talent, drive and passion in the disability community makes me so excited for the next generation of disabled people. Huge thanks to Attitude Pictures, NZ On Air, all my wonderful colleagues at Stuff, Grace and Rebecca and my family and friends who encourage and support me.”

As a previous Attitude employee, Olivia understands the mission behind the organisation and the values that Attitude look for when selecting finalists in the awards. Olivia is passionate about empowering groups that are often overlooked or marginalised, and has used her lived experience as a disabled woman to pave the way for others. Her determination to make Aotearoa a more inclusive society, coupled with her incredible personal achievements, contribute to why Attitude are delighted to name her the Supreme Winner for 2021, as well as the winner of the Enterprise Award.

On Olivia’s win, Attitude CEO Dan Buckingham: “24 amazing finalists came to the fore this year, showcasing a range of people who are either excelling in their own right, or doing phenomenal work to advance the lives others. Our panel of judges have deep knowledge and understanding of the disability sector; that they chose Olivia from such a strong field of people speaks to her work and what she is achieving. We only wish we could be celebrating her with our usual black-tie event! Fortunately, with the backing of NZ On Air and our extremely supportive family of sponsors, we have been able to put together a fantastic TV special to honour Olivia, and the 2021 finalists who are doing great things in the disability community.”

ACC is proud to be the principal sponsor of the Attitude Awards for the 14th consecutive year.

ACC Chief Executive Megan Main said: “My heartfelt congratulations to all nominees and winners at this year’s Attitude Awards, and particularly to Supreme Award winner Olivia Shivas. We commend her for helping expand the public consciousness of what it means to live with a disability and helping remove bias in our society to open up more possibilities for people with disabilities.

“Many of us gain meaning in our lives from our work, and I want to congratulate the team at the Wanganui Enterprises Trust, winner of the ACC Attitude Employer Award. The Trust is a shining example of the contribution that employers can make in improving New Zealanders’ lives every day. You have shown there are huge benefits to be gained from investing in and employing people with disabilities. Our congratulations to the Attitude Awards team for the great work you do to celebrate our disabled community. This event creates a stronger and more inclusive New Zealand.”

Olivia’s award closed an outstanding hour-long special where 25 individuals and organisations were recognised for their work in the disability sector. Hosted by TV news anchor Simon Dallow, audiences were treated a performance put together by choreographer Amelia Mcgregor, featuring Anushka Singh, a Deaf student from Ko Taku Reo, and dancers Ysabel and Martina Mercado, set to music played by the New Zealand Army Band.

ACCLAIMED MĀORI SINGER TEEKS ANNOUNCES TWO 2022 SHOWS

Live Nation has today announced that modern soul singer TEEKS (Te Karehana Gardiner-Toi) will be returning to the stage for a limited number of shows in 2022. The award-winning artist will visit Hamilton and Wellington to share his stunning vocals and capitivating lyrics with local crowds.
 
After a sold-out album release tour in 2021 which saw TEEKS share his long-awaited debut album ‘Something to Feel’ with audiences across Aotearoa, the celebrated Māori artist has received critical acclaim and an outpouring of praise for his mahi. The album debuted at #1, with the single ‘First Time’ reaching #1 on iTunes and Spotify, securing gold status in Aotearoa and South Africa, and amassing over 5 million Spotify streams.
 
TEEKS burst onto the local music scene in 2017 with his EP The Grapefruit Skies, and by 2019 he’d secured a loyal fanbase thanks to his ability to connect with audiences through his waiata. By the end of 2019, TEEKS had been nominated for the 2017 Taite Music Prize, was a finalist for a Silver Scroll songwriting award, and was awarded Best Māori Artist at the New Zealand Music Awards. After a sold-out headline show at Auckland’s Town Hall with the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra and two sold-out national tours, it was clear that TEEKS was one to keep an eye on as he climbed the charts, a statement only further proven when he was awarded Best NZ Act at the 2021 MTV EMA’s.
 
TEEKS’ incredible talent has been recognised overseas, with American Vogue stating he was one of the music industry’s “most promising talents” and “New Zealand’s soulful singer to know.” Yvette Noel-Schure, publicist to mega-star Beyonce, has taken TEEKS under her wing by representing him outside of Aotearoa.
 
Tickets for all shows go on sale at 12pm Wednesday December 8 from livenation.co.nz.

“Poised to become New Zealand’s next international superstar” – North & South

“Teeks has an uncanny knack for singing with a gravitas that makes you feel like you are in a stadium, but at the same time as if he is singing for you and you only.” – New Zealand Herald

“His ballads, like soothing balms for heartache, and his stage presence, endearing and utterly likeable, are universally appealing – and his motley crew crowd are a testament to that.” – Stuff

Written and produced by TEEKS, the album’s first single ‘Without You’ set off the waves for what unfolded over the next six months. The single was quickly followed by the release of ‘I’ in the middle of a lockdown, offering some emotional comfort in a time of uprooted living. This was followed up by ‘II’ and a very special tour announcement. Giving audiences in select New Zealand towns the chance to experience ‘Something To Feel’ up close and personally before release, TEEKS hit the road late last year. The tour sold out in an unprecedented 7 days. Backed by the acclaimed Black Quartet, TEEKS performed in beautiful, historic venues from the Far North to the Deep South.

Before long, TEEKS revealed his greatest love song to date, ‘Remember Me’. Between the bars of this soaring, expansive anthem, he bleeds emotional vulnerability in a bold statement of modern masculinity. Watch the music video here, in which TEEKS made his directional debut, working alongside Director Ray Edwards and Producer Mia Henry-Teirney.

Expressed through unguarded songwriting, and a honey-soaked croon that effortlessly rises from a whisper to a roar, Something To Feel’s twelve songs draw from the experiences through which he uncovered strength in vulnerability, and learned the power of complete emotional expression. Cast from the most isolated corner of the earth – a private universe away – TEEKS shares a songbook destined to connect the world. The album has been nominated for Recorded Music NZ Te Pukaemi o te Tau | Album of the Year at the 2021 Aotearoa Music Awards, alongside four other nominations for TEEKS’ mahi.

TEEKS
NEW ZEALAND 2022

HAMILTON GARDENS ART FESTIVAL, HAMILTION
FRIDAY, 18 FEB

ANDERSON PARK, WELLINGTON
FRIDAY, 4 MARCH

TICKETS ON SALE 12PM WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: thisteeks.com & www.livenation.co.nz

LANY ANNOUNCE A NEW ZEALAND SHOW WITH SPECIAL GUEST SASHA ALEX SLOAN

Live Nation and Secret Sounds have today announced that L.A. trio LANY are heading to New Zealand next year. Joined by special guest Sasha Alex Sloan, LANY will perform at Shed 10 in Auckland on Tuesday 31st May 2022.

This performance will be their biggest New Zealand show yet, with a number of new songs on their setlist. Fronted by songwriter, lyricist and producer Paul Klein, LANY’s breakthrough came with their 2017 self-titled debut, which built an international fanbase and led to sold out shows across the world, including New Zealand.

The heartbreak anthems on their 2018 follow-up Malibu Nights cracked the Billboard Album Chart and connected in a huge way across the globe, with their 2019 collaboration with Lauv, ‘Mean It’, and 2021 collaboration with Kelsea Ballerini ‘I Quit Drinking’ garnering further attention. The third studio album, mama’s boy debuted at #7 on the Billboard 200 and #1 on the Alternative Albums sales chart with more than 300 million streams to date, and single if this is the last time earning LANY their biggest radio hit to date.

The band’s fourth album ‘gg bb xx’ is a change of gear, towards what principal songwriter Klein calls micro-moments: those flashes we experience that come and go in the blink of an eye. Fleeting moments in love and life that it’d be easy to miss if we didn’t grab hold of them there and then.

‘gg bb xx’ finds LANY returning to their infectious pop sound, collaborating with an array of notable songwriters and producers including Andrew Goldstein (Maroon 5, Katy Perry, Lauv), John Ryan (Shawn Mendes, Charlie Puth, Harry Styles), David Hodges (Ed Sheeran, 5SOS, Blink 182), Tobias Jesso Jr. (Adele, Sia, HAIM), Dan Smyers of Dan + Shay and more.

Now with a social following of over 8.2 million people, LANY have played sold-out shows from L.A.’s Greek Theatre to London’s Brixton Academy. Their songs have been streamed over three billion times with more than 600 million video views to date. Just off a 30+ date tour of North America and UK, LANY are primed and ready to bring ‘gg bb xx’ to Kiwi fans.

Boston born songstress Sasha Alex Sloan will join LANY on tour, marking her first ever show in New Zealand. Sasha started writing songs at just 10 years old. She moved to L.A. at 19 after dropping out of college and began writing tracks for the likes of Camila Cabello as well as lending her vocals to Kygo's ‘This Town’ and ‘Falls’ for ODESZA. Sasha released her first EP sad girl in 2017. Within a year she surpassed 19 million Spotify streams, while averaging over 4 million monthly listeners and, fast forward to 2021, she is in the Top 500 most played artists on Spotify globally. Be sure to catch the unassuming phenomenon when she joins LANY in May.

Jump on tickets fast and get ready to catch LANY’s synth-sheened anthems of love and heartbreak when they hit our shores in 2022.

Tickets for all shows go on sale at 9am on Friday December 10.

Pre-sales tickets will be available through Live Nation, Secret Sounds and Spotify from 9am on Thursday December 9 until 8am Friday December 10.

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz.

SHED 10, AUCKLAND TUESDAY MAY 31, 2022

TICKETS ON SALE 9AM FRIDAY DECEMBER 10
Live Nation, Secret Sounds and Spotify pre-sale: 9am Thursday December 9 until 8am Friday December 10

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: thisislany.com & www.livenation.co.nz

PSYCH-POP BAND ONONO ANNOUNCED AS LIVE NATION AND VODAFONE’S DECEMBER MONTHLY ARTIST

Another artist for Live Nation & Vodafone’s Ones to Watch artist discovery programme has been announced, this month celebrating psychedelic pop band ONONO. Fronted by Jono Nott, the band stemmed from a personal project, developing into a multi-instrumental sound with tunes to feed the soul.

While ONONO is fronted by Jono, he shares the stage with three other musicians to bring the energy to a live audience – Katelin on synths and vocals, Leo on synth bass guitar, and Sam on drums. They know how to put on a show, with Jono explaining: “It’s a pretty energetic show. It's not like a crazy rock show or anything. It’s the kind of thing that you could dance hard if you wanted to or you could close your eyes and sort of float away.”

With a sound self-described as “soundscapy, super cinematic and escapist pop,” their music is known to transport its listener into a vibrant summer haze. Their latest self-titled album reflects this feeling, providing the perfect soundtrack to a Kiwi summer filled with road trips, long hot days, and hazy nights.

No stranger to the music scene, ONONO’s front man Jono Nott has been playing in bands for several years, including with his cousins in successful Kiwi-pop band Broods. With Jono on drums, the band have opened for acts including Ellie Goulding, Two Door Cinema Club, Tove Lo and Empire of the Sun, travelling the world and delighting crowds. Jono has also played at a number of music festivals with Broods, including Lollapalooza, Coachella, Outside Lands, Clockenflap Festival, Neon Lights and more.

Click here to find out more about ONONO

Live Nation promoter Renee Hermsen says: “ONONO delivers a truly unique sound within the pop, electro, experimental sphere, it can’t be put into boxes really! Make sure to see them live and experience it yourself. And bring your dancing shoes!”

It’s been over a year since ONES TO WATCH launched in Aotearoa, and since it’s inception, the programme has an incredible slate of musicians under its belt. ONONO joins Rhys Rich, There’s a Tuesday, Muroki, Paige, Park Rd, Balu Brigada and more as alumni. A variety of genres have been featured, from pop to indie, rock to hip hop, showcasing Aotearoa’s best when it comes to local music.

Launched in 2017 in the United States, ONES TO WATCH has helped boost the careers of artists now reaching global stages, including Halsey and Grammy-award winning Dua Lipa, who recently announced a global tour, including a New Zealand pit-stop, after a massive two years promoting her number one album, Future Nostalgia.

Joe Goddard, Experience & Commercial Director at Vodafone NZ had this to say: "The weather is heating up and a vibrant Kiwi summer is barrelling towards us, making ONONO the perfect band to join the ONES TO WATCH alumni right now. Thanks to our investment in upgrading mobile coverage across regional Aotearoa, Vodafone is the ideal companion for those summer road trips, helping our customers stream awesome Kiwi tunes as they explore our beautiful country.”

After launching an exclusive long-term partnership in 2019, Live Nation Australasia and Vodafone New Zealand have provided Vodafone customers access to Live Nation’s entertainment portfolio including music, family and comedy tours and festivals across the country. The strategic multi-year partnership is committed to bringing the best live experiences to New Zealand and the best New Zealand artists to the world. The unique emerging talent platform of ONES TO WATCH builds on this strong partnership and a mutual dedication to support grassroots initiatives.

As well as access to the online platform, Vodafone customers will be given the chance to win tickets to the ONES TO WATCH invitation-only quarterly showcase events. More info and competition details available at: vodafonerewards.co.nz

KIWI POP SUPERSTAR BENEE ADDS NEW ZEALAND SHOWS TO HER WORLD TOUR

Indie-pop superstar BENEE has today added a further three shows to her already sprawling list of shows across Aotearoa! Dunedin, Auckland, and Wellington have been added to the tour, along with a huge slate of shows across Europe and North America, with BENEE hitting the road from February 2022 to share new music and memories with fans across the globe.
 
BENEE will visit every corner of the country, hitting ten different towns and cities joined by special guests, THERE’S A TUESDAY. BENEE recently released her newest single ‘Doesn’t Matter’, her first taste of new music since her debut album ‘Hey U X’ hit the shelves in November 2020. The ‘Supalonely’ singer has had an incredible 18 months, from releasing the album, to sharing it with Kiwi crowds on a sold-out eight-date tour in late 2020 and being named on Forbes 30 under 30 Asia 2021 list. Worldwide streams in the billions have made her one of the most exciting new acts to have emerged anywhere.
 
BENEE shares her excitement with fans: “I am beyond excited to announce that my 2022 WORLD TOUR KICKS OFF IN NZ in Feb next year!!!!!!!!!” says BENEE. “It’s been such a long time coming & we’ve lived through a lot in these weird times but shows starting up again has rly got everyone sososososo happyyy!!!! I can’t wait to get back out there & meet all of u and play a bunch of new musiiiiiicccc!!
 
Following the success of her October 2020 tour, BENEE recognised that fans outside the main centres don’t often get the opportunity to experience full-scale pop concerts in their own backyards. From February 2022, she will bring her trademark infectious energy to crowds across Aotearoa (and the world!) to get people up on their feet for a groove-worthy night.
 
Tickets start from $59.90 (excluding booking fees) and go on sale at 11am Friday, November 26. VIP experiences will also be available for the tour, giving fans the chance to meet BENEE pre-show, gain early access to the venue for a prime viewing spot, and receive an exclusive tour gift. VIP experiences start at $139.90 (excluding booking fees).
 
Live Nation customers will have the chance to get tickets early to the new dates during the pre-sale starting at 10am Thursday, November 25 until 11am Friday, November 26. 
 
For complete tour, ticket and VIP information, visit: livenation.co.nz.
 
BENEE is the dreamy voice of a disaffected generation. She broke out around the world with “Supalonely,” an alt-pop ballad about unwanted isolation, a sentiment that found her a lot of friends in 2020. Billions of streams later, she returned with the guest-packed, yet highly personal ‘Hey u x’ and a southern summer of sold out shows around her home country.
 
She has not only performed on a string of major television shows including The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Late Night With Seth Meyers, but appeared alongside doting fan Elton John on his Apple Music Rocket Hour radio show.
 
Additionally, she was named Apple Up Next Artist July 2020, nominated for MTV VMA “Push Best New Artist” 2020, MTV EMA “Best Push” Artist 2020, E! People’s Choice Awards New Artist of 2020. She has collected seven New Zealand Aotearoa Music Awards in the past two years, twice taking home Single of the Year and Best Pop Artist categories, and is nominated in a further three categories in the 2021 awards – Te Kaipuoro Takitahi Toa | Best Solo Artist, The Edge Te Kaipuoro Arotini Toa | Best Pop Artist, and Recorded Music NZ Te Pukaemi o te Tau | Album of the Year. Her single “Glitter” won the APRA Silver Scroll songwriting prize in October 2020.
 
Supalonely is certified Platinum in eight countries including the US. In Australia, Supalonely, Glitter and Soaked are all Double Platinum records and Evil Spider and Find An Island are Gold – an impressive feat also matched in her home country.
 
Supporting BENEE, will be one of New Zealand’s most exciting up-and-coming indie rock/pop bands, THERE’S A TUESDAY. Picked to support by BENEE herself, the group consists of two female front women, Nat Hutton and Minnie Robberds, both on guitars and vocals, with Angus Murray on the drums and Joel Becker holding it down on the bass. After receiving critical acclaim for their debut EP in November 2020, followed by a busy summer festival season, There’s A Tuesday are poised to have a massive 12 months.
 
Get ready to experience BENEE before she embarks on a massive global tour! This is not to be missed.

TICKETS FOR NEW SHOWS ON SALE 11AM FRIDAY, NOV 26

Live Nation pre-sales begin 10am Thursday, Nov 25

For complete tour, ticket and VIP information, visit:
beneemusic.com & livenation.co.nz

NEW SHOWS ACROSS AOTEAROA ANNOUNCED FOR THE RESILIENCE PROJECT WITH HUGH VAN CUYLENBURG IN 2022

Due to popular demand, The Resilience Project has today announced a further three shows with founder and best-selling author Hugh van Cuylenburg.

This incredible event will give Kiwis the chance to learn about positive mental health strategies in a time where we need them most. Hugh will walk audiences through his journey and tell stories of the incredible people who have inspired him to build resilience and spread happiness. Hugh will visit Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland in May 2022.

With the original dates in 2021 postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions, it only elevates the need for positivity and resilience throughout the uncertainty of the pandemic. Hugh has reached over one million people through his best-selling book, incredibly successful podcast (The Imperfects), seminars and school talks, sports teams, and workplace visits. And now, The Resilience Project will share their flagship presentation with the Kiwi public for the first time.

Tickets go on sale at 12pm local time, Thursday November 18.

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz.

Hugh van Cuylenburg, founder of The Resilience Project, has previously partnered with elite sports teams (including Australian cricket, netball, soccer, NRL and AFL teams), over a thousand schools and more than 500 workplaces, teaching simple and practical evidence-based mental health strategies to help build resilience and happiness.

Van Cuylenburg is also the best-selling author of The Resilience Project: Finding Happiness Through Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness, which has sold over 200,000 copies since it’s release in late 2019. He is the co-host of popular podcast, The Imperfects.

The messages behind The Resilience Project’s work have become ever more powerful over the past twelve months. The public talks see Hugh unpack the research on mental health and break it down into simple tips that will leave you feeling empowered to improve your wellbeing. The talks are for everyone - adults, parents, professionals, and teenagers.

YUNGBLUD ANNOUNCES ‘LIFE ON MARS’ NZ SHOW IN 2022

Live Nation and Secret Sounds have today announced that YUNGBLUD will bring his huge Life on Mars tour to Aotearoa in 2022. The Yorkshire born singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist will perform an all ages-show at Auckland’s Shed 10 on July 20th, 2022, with tickets on sale from 12pm this Friday.

YUNGBLUD has torn up stages over the ditch in Australia including Splendour in the Grass, Spinoff and Falls Festival, but 2022 will mark his first performance to a Kiwi crowd. The past two years have seen YUNGBLUD collaborate with a host of heavyweight artists, including Halsey and Travis Barker for 11 Minutes, and with Machine Gun Kelly and Travis Barker for I Think I’m Okay.

Now with Cotton Candy sitting at more than 1.5 billion streams and 800,000+ albums sold globally, there’s no doubt that YUNGBLUD’s star is continuing to rise both in New Zealand and around the world.

“I’m so excited to perform in front of a New Zealand crowd and to meet my Kiwi fans for the first time. I’m sitting on a lot of pent-up energy, emotion, and passion so you all better prepare yourselves. I’ve had a year trapped in a room and my ADHD needs to have some gasoline put on it and set me on fire… let’s get it!” said YUNGBLUD.

YUNGBLUD’s sophomore album ‘Weird’, released in December 2020 and described as a coming-of-age album, is available now.

Tickets for go on sale at 12pm Friday November 12.

My Live Nation members may also secure tickets first during the pre-sale beginning 12pm Thursday November 11.

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz.

SHED 10, AUCKLAND WEDNESDAY JULY 20, 2022

TICKETS ON SALE 12PM FRIDAY NOVEMBER 12

Live Nation pre-sale: 12pm Thursday November 11 until 11am Friday November 12

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: yungbludofficial.com & livenation.co.nz

‘OPERA ON THE HARBOUR’ TO DEBUT ON AUCKLAND’S ICONIC WATERFRONT THIS FEBRUARY

Auckland’s iconic Wynyard Wharf will play host to the first-ever Opera on the Harbour, an evening of music and entertainment set against the backdrop of the stunning Waitematā Harbour and City Lights on Valentine’s Weekend 2022.

Audiences will experience a concert performance of the famous, crowd-pleasing musical Carousel in an open-air setting on the Auckland waterfront across three nights in February, with performances by some of New Zealand’s best operatic talent alongside and household names in music and entertainment. High-quality food and beverages will be on offer, with a spectacular fireworks display to conclude the evening.

Described by TIME magazine as “the best musical of the 20th century”, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical features the anthems ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ and ‘If I Loved You’.

NZ Opera General Director Thomas de Mallet Burgess says, “This will be a spectacular experience for audiences – a first-of-its-kind opera event on Waitematā Harbour with a purpose-built stage and seating area. Broadway will meet opera in a world-class outdoor setting at the height of summer’s long, warm evenings, introducing what we expect will become a favourite annual show in the Auckland summer events calendar.”

Auckland Unlimited’s Head of Major and Business Events, Richard Clarke, says new, innovative events are important for Auckland’s visitor economy.

“This event represents a fantastic opportunity for people to enjoy a weekend and a unique cultural experience in Tāmaki Makaurau. There is no better way to do that than to bring together some of the finest singers, musicians and creatives in the country for a spectacular production right on the water, against the backdrop of the city.”

“This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved with collaboration across the Auckland Council whānau and with innovative event partners. We are very proud to be able to support New Zealand and Auckland’s artistic and cultural talent while showcasing our city’s beautiful settings,” Clarke says.

Tickets start from $79 and are on public sale 1 November from ticketek.co.nz. NZ Opera subscribers can purchase season tickets from 26 October. More information at: nzopera.com. The event will comply strictly with all New Zealand Government COVID guidelines.

Opera on the Harbour is presented by MediaWorks, NZ Opera, Oceania (NW Group) and The Show Biz with support from Auckland Unlimited.

NEW ACTION-DRAMA FILM ‘MURU’, A RESPONSE TO THE TŪHOE RAIDS, ANNOUNCED FOR NATIONWIDE RELEASE ON FEBURARY 3RD 2022

On October 15th in 2007, with new anti-terrorism powers, the New Zealand Police swooped on the people of Tūhoe, raiding homes in the small town of Rūātoki in the Bay of Plenty, Aotearoa. Among the many arrested under suspicion of domestic terrorism was activist Tame Iti. Fourteen years on, award-winning filmmaker Tearepa Kahi, world renowned actor Cliff Curtis and artist Tame Iti announce their response to the event, with feature film Muru. The gripping action-drama is set for nationwide general release on February 3rd, 2022, in time for Waitangi Day.

Muru is a Māori concept for reconciliation and forgiveness. Written and directed by Tearepa Kahi (Poi E: The Story of our Song, Mt. Zion) and filmed in the Te Urewera and Rūātoki, Muru stars Cliff Curtis (The Dark Horse, Avatar 2), Jay Ryan (IT Chapter Two, The Furnace), Manu Bennett (The Hobbit trilogy) and Simone Kessell (Reckoning). Support cast includes Ria Te Uira Paki (The Dead Lands), Roimata Fox (Waru), Poroaki Merritt-McDonald (Savage) and Tame Iti as himself.

Tearepa Kahi’s previous feature films Mt. Zion and Poi E: The Story of our Song were both released on Waitangi Day, setting local box office records. Tearepa Kahi said Muru was made with “a Merata Mita and Geoff Murphy spirit, a Tame Iti authenticity and a Cliff Curtis commitment to craft.”

Kahi commented on the production process: “Shooting a film on location in Tūhoe during a pandemic brought an interesting set of challenges to our already challenging story, but the shared understanding and full support of local Tūhoe marae and kaumātua, cast and crew allowed us to move through the shoot at a deliberate pace and create characters with shape that we hope will create a deep cultural impact and speak truth to power.”

Lead Producer Reikura Kahi (Poi E: The Story of our Song) says Muru is a powerful and revealing te reo Māori language film with strong performances from a dream cast. Reikura Kahi continued: “Our most memorable day was when our cast and crew were welcomed on to Tuapou Marae, in the Waimana Valley. Listening to the waiata tangi and standing in silence beside the resting place of Rua Kēnana. Muru is not a re-creation of the events which occurred on October 15th, but a story which weaves the deep past and the recent present together, in order to reach a place, we need now more than ever, greater understanding.”

Kahi worked with cinematographer Fred Renata (Poi E: The Story of our Song, Mt. Zion), Academy Award winning editor John Gilbert (Hacksaw Ridge, The Lord of the Rings) and composer Mahuia Bridgman-Cooper (Shadow in the Cloud) to bring Muru to life and said working with Cliff Curtis was “a dream come true”. He continued: “An actor of Cliff’s abilities, being in constant international demand, plus coming out of the ‘Avatar 2’ shoot, I knew we had to put something to him that would allow him to really bite down and showcase all his skills.”

Executive Producer and lead actor Cliff Curtis commented: “We live in challenging times. Muru is a suitably wild ride in Tūhoe land. It reminds me that when the world goes crazy and things go wrong, then courage and love is what really matters in life. I am honoured to collaborate with Tearepa and Reikura because they are true champions of Māori story telling. They work with heart and guts and a deep respect and joy for our living heritage. As always they are committed to our unique and rich humanity in this latest touchstone Muru.”

Muru is the first feature film to be funded under Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga - New Zealand Film Commission’s He Pounamu Te Reo Māori Feature Film Fund under Te Rautaki Māori Strategy. Pouwhakahaere Te O Kahurangi Waaka says that the funds committed to make films with majority Te Reo Māori and that support Māori storytelling to reach domestic and global audiences have been long overdue, marking a significant milestone for the sector with the release of Muru. The film was made with additional investment from Arclight Films International, Te Māngai Pāho, NZ On Air/Irirangi Te Motu, Three (TBC), Imagezone and Images & Sound. The film is being distributed in New Zealand and Australia by Rialto Distribution, with Arclight Films International handling rest of world sales.

Muru will be released in cinemas nationwide on 3rd February 2022, for Waitangi Day.

2021 ATTITUDE AWARDS ARE SET TO BE HELD IN CHRISTCHURCH FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME

The Attitude Awards have today announced that this year’s black-tie event will be held in Christchurch for the first time. Hosted by TVNZ’s Simon Dallow, the glitzy gala dinner will feature entertainers from the disability sector, and the much-loved New Zealand Army Band. The glittering event is set for Friday 10th December at Christchurch Arena with tickets on sale now from www.attitudeawards.org.

Now in its 14th year, the Attitude Awards will be recorded on the night and broadcast as an hour-long television special on TVNZ1 on Sunday, 18th December at 4pm, with thanks to NZ on Air. The special will feature entertainment, winners and highlights from the evening.

The unique celebration, which champions New Zealanders excellence and achievements in the disability community, recognises athletes, employers, employees, young people and other game changers. Finalists in this year’s categories include Christchurch’s own Luka Willems, a YouTuber and Para swimmer, Olivia Shivas who produces a podcast with the goal of changing representation of people with disabilities through the media, and Bradley Lewis who runs his own dog treat business.

Attitude’s CEO Dan Buckingham, a Paralympic gold medallist who uses a wheelchair after sustaining a spinal cord injury aged 18, said: “We’re excited to be bringing the Attitude Awards to Christchurch, introducing Cantabrians to this truly one-of-a-kind event. Audiences can expect a full range of emotions, from being entertained to inspired, to having their heart warmed. It’s a night to remember that you don’t want to miss.”

Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel commented: “Ōtautahi Christchurch is a city of opportunity for all – a city that is welcoming, inclusive and accessible to everyone. I am delighted that this year the Attitude Awards are being held in Christchurch and I welcome the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of those outstanding people who make a difference as role models and advocates for disabled people in all that they do.”

Ruth Dyson, Former MP, added: “For years, Cantabrians have watched enviously as Auckland has hosted the Attitude Awards, but 2021 sees that change. We have won the hosting rights! Now is our time to showcase our region as being the most accessible and welcoming in our nation. You are guaranteed a fabulous night that you will never forget. No need to fly to Auckland this year - it's right here on our back door. Let's show the country what makes us tick.”

For the 14th year running, ACC returns as principal sponsor. ACC Acting Chief Executive Mike Tully said: “The Attitude Awards ceremony shines a light on the contribution the disabled community make to New Zealand, every day of every year. We’re delighted to support the Awards once again this year and for the first time in the South Island. On behalf of all at ACC, our warm congratulations to all the finalists. We look forward to celebrating your successes in Christchurch.”

Other sponsors and supporters for the awards include APM Workcare, Barfoot & Thompson, Lion Foundation, Lotto New Zealand, Ministry of Health NZ and Sport New Zealand.

The nine categories for this year’s awards are: Attitude ACC Employer Award, Community Champion Award, Enterprise Award, Impact Award, Sporting Endeavour Award, Youth Award, Spirit of Attitude Award, and Creative Award.

PRODUCER AND SINGER-SONGWRITER RHYS RICH CROWNED LIVE NATION & VODAFONE’S NEWEST ONES TO WATCH ARTIST

Live Nation & Vodafone have announced the latest artist in their Ones to Watch programme as self-made producer and singer-songwriter Rhys Rich. The now Wellington-based musician has adopted the capital city as his own, and has caught the eye of the industry, placing him as the ninth ONES TO WATCH artist of 2021.

Connor Henare Dion, also known as Rhys Rich, grew up in Australia before moving to Pōneke to cement his place in the capital’s music scene. Mixing classic hip-hop and R&B with modern pop, indie and electronic music, he takes inspiration from Odd Future and Tyler, the Creator. He recently took the stage in Wellington, at Live Nation & Vodafone’s Ones to Watch showcase, alongside two other musicians slated for the programme.

Rhys has made waves locally, using his personal experience to aid his lyrics: “love songs are the easiest thing to work with, and especially having a partner I love makes it a lot easier.” The authentic connections made through his music has helped grow his fan base, with his 2020 song No Confetti reaching 300,000 streams on Spotify.

As with many artists around the world, Covid-19 stopped them in their tracks when it came to touring and releasing new music. While he’s keeping the details on the downlow, Rhys has promised big things are coming. “I feel horrible since I haven’t been putting out anything this year. But that’s all going to change before the end of the year. Going to be a lot of music out and have a lot of shows and festivals lined up as well – so I’m excited for that. It’s only up from here!”

Click here to find out more about Rhys Rich

On Rhys’ appointment as the next monthly artist, Live Nation promotor Renée Hermsen says: “I love Rhys’ nonchalant style of rapping and he has an outstanding stage presence - the crowd absolutely adored him. I’m sure we’re going to see a lot of him over summer!”

A year on from launching the programme in Aotearoa, the ONES TO WATCH programme has an incredible slate of musicians under its belt. Rhys Rich joins There’s a Tuesday, Muroki, Paige, Park Rd, Balu Brigada and more as alumni of the programme. A variety of genres have been featured, from pop to indie, rock to hip hop, showcasing what Aotearoa has the best to offer when it comes to local music. Launched in 2017 in the United States, ONES TO WATCH has helped boost the careers of artists now reaching worldwide stages, including Halsey and Grammy-award winning Dua Lipa, who just announced a global tour, including a New Zealand pit-stop, after a massive two years promoting her number one album, Future Nostalgia.

Joe Goddard, Experience & Commercial Director at Vodafone NZ had this to say. “Some of the Vodafone team had the pleasure of seeing Rhys Rich perform pre-lockdown and gave rave reviews. We’re so happy we get to be involved in his future success and support Live Nation as they celebrate phenomenal Kiwi up and comers.”

After launching an exclusive long-term partnership in 2019, Live Nation Australasia and Vodafone New Zealand have provided Vodafone customers access to Live Nation’s entertainment portfolio including music, family and comedy tours and festivals across the country. The strategic multi-year partnership is committed to bringing the best live experiences to New Zealand and the best New Zealand artists to the world. The unique emerging talent platform of ONES TO WATCH builds on this strong partnership and a mutual dedication to support grassroots initiatives.

As well as access to the online platform, Vodafone customers will be given the chance to win tickets to the ONES TO WATCH invitation-only quarterly showcase events. More info and competition details available at: vodafonerewards.co.nz

KIWI THRILLER COMING HOME IN THE DARK FAST TRACKED TO VIDEO ON DEMAND

New Zealand audiences are able to experience COMING HOME IN THE DARK at home early with a fast-tracked digital release to rent & buy now on Apple TV, Google Play & NZ Film OnDemand.

Following its World Premiere at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival in the US earlier this year, COMING HOME IN THE DARK has blazed the international film festival circuit to widespread critical acclaim with an aggregated score of 91% on Rotten Tomatoes. Opening just days before the recent Level 4 Lockdown across New Zealand, Kiwi audiences, especially in Auckland, were robbed of their chance to see this film that critics called ‘A stark and unsettling instant Kiwi classic’ (NZ Herald) and ‘Brutal, haunting and excellent storytelling’ (Newshub)

“Covid hasn't stopped Aotearoa audiences' phenomenal response to Coming Home in the Dark," said director James Ashcroft. “It's been incredibly gratifying to witness and we're excited that movie lovers nationwide will now be able to watch the film in the comfort of their own homes.”

Based on a short story written by award-winning New Zealand author Owen Marshall, COMING HOME IN THE DARK follows a man who is forced to confront a secret from his past when a pair of ruthless drifters take his family on a nightmare road-trip.

Adapted for the screen by James Ashcroft and his long-time collaborator, writer Eli Kent (Millie Lies Low). As both director and executive producer, the film is James Ashcroft’s feature film directorial debut and he is now tapped to co-write and direct Hollywood blockbuster DEVOLUTION for Legendary Pictures, based off the novel by Max Brooks (World War Z).

COMING HOME IN THE DARK stars Daniel Gillies (The Vampire Diaries), Erik Thomson (The Luminaries), Miriama McDowell (Head High) and Matthias Luafutu (Ghost in the Shell). The film is produced by Mike Minogue (Talkback), Catherine Fitzgerald (Bellbird) and Desray Armstrong (Juniper) under Homecoming Productions banner. With investment from The New Zealand Film Commission, COMING HOME IN THE DARK is distributed theatrically in New Zealand and Australia by Monster Pictures.

PHOENIX SUMMIT: 003 | NEW ZEALAND’S CREATIVE INDUSTRY EVENT RETURNS WITH AN IMPRESSIVE INTERNATIONAL AND LOCAL LINE-UP

GUEST SPEAKERS INCLUDE GRAMMY NOMINATED HIP HOP PRODUCER MIKE SNELL, LIVENDIRECT FOUNDER KEITH TURNER AND AOTEAROA TALENT SPANNING MUSIC AND BUSINESS

New Zealand’s creative industry event is returning for 2021 with Phoenix Summit: 003. Taking place on Thursday 18th November from 11am at Auckland’s Wynyard Pavilion, the afternoon will feature a variety of notable guest speakers including local and international founders and creative visionaries Mike Snell (U.S.), Keith Turner (U.S.), Aotearoa accomplished musician Devin Abrams of Pacific Heights, successful podcast co-founder of The Curve, Victoria Harris, alongside Matt Croad and Nick Marshall who co-founded and are directors of the successful drinks businesses Pals and Master of Ceremonies. They will also be joined by Tim Harper - co-founder and CEO of new NFT digital company Glorious and Sam Gribben, Melodics CEO and former Serato CEO.

Phoenix Summit: 003 aims to connect, inspire and rise-up to create change and influence for the better of the industry. The event will offer an opportunity to advance and influence the future of Aotearoa by bringing together those playing an active role in shaping it - to create an uprising of creative minds.

The brainchild of the Phoenix Summit is Hamish Pinkham, one of New Zealand’s most accomplished music industry players, and supported by leading individuals in New Zealand’s entertainment sector. It was established to unite New Zealand’s creative industries and create a platform for meaningful conversations around how we can use our platforms to achieve social change.

With the creative industry in a state of flux since the start of the 2020 pandemic, and affecting it most recently, the most recent sessions will explore the landscape and where future opportunities lie in a post-Covid world. The afternoon will also cover support and funding, and relevant technologies to carry ideas forward. 

Phoenix Summit’s founder Hamish Pinkham comments: “Given this Covid environment -  it's more imperative than ever to be sharing inspiration and topical Kiwi stories and helping provide a platform for those to plug into to keep progressing their creative ambitions.”

Phoenix Summit will be proudly sponsored by Moshtix, Harley Evans Managing Director says: "We're super excited to be involved with this amazing initiative that is assisting in the development of the next generation of young music makers, audiences and industry professionals in New Zealand."

The line-up of speakers to be interviewed by Sin Howard, alongside special local guests in Phoenix's signature style, includes:

• Mike Snell - Regal Records

• Keith Turner - LIVENDIRECT

• Devin Abrams - Pacific Heights

• Matt Croad and Nick Marshall - Pals and Master of Ceremonies

• Fenella Stratton and Jaz Powell - Twice the Hype

• Caitlin Crisp - Caitlin Crisp

• Tim Harper - Glorious NFT

• Victoria Harris - The Curve

Featuring a line-up of inspiring and informative speakers, register for tickets from today from major sponsor Moshtix. Tickets on sale from Friday October 1. General admission $89, students and high school students $69 plus booking fee.

If the summit is to take place under Level 2 restrictions, it will do so in accordance with NZ health and safety government regulations and practice.

TRADE CAREERS SURVEY RESULTS REVEAL 79% OF EMPLOYERS IN THE TRADE SECTOR WANT TO HIRE WOMEN BUT NEED SUPPORT TO DO IT

RESULTS ALSO HIGHLIGHT THE IMPORTANCE OF A SUPPORTIVE BOSS, FLEXIBILITY, WORKPLACE SAFETY AND CULTURAL RESPECT FOR WOMEN

Trade Careers has today released its pioneering research and insights report, revealing that 79% of trade employers surveyed would like to hire female employees into their businesses but need support to do so. Employers stated reasons such as women’s dedication to their work, higher attention to detail and time management skills as attributes that would make them an asset to their sites.

The report aims to reveal the barriers Kiwi women face when entering the building, construction and infrastructure industries. The solutions focused report was commissioned in April 2021 to better understand the employment situation of the 22,000 New Zealand women who lost their jobs due to COVID-19. The results offer insights into how to attract and transition women into careers within the trade sector.

Currently, the trade industries are experiencing an unprecedented skills shortage. At present, only 2.6% of the building, construction and infrastructure sector are women, however both employers and women have said they want to connect with each other.

Of the 2,254 women who completed the survey, 60% would like to enter the trade industry, and 79% of the 207 employers who responded said they would like to hire women, and would value support to do so.

From employers' perspectives, women’s attention to detail, dedication, positive attitude, customer service and time management skills were noted as attractive reasons for hiring women as tradespeople. Several perceived barriers included concerns regarding women’s physical strength, flexibility to accommodate child care, maternity cover and navigating negative workplace culture. Trade Careers believe these myths can be easily busted.

Survey results found that women want a supportive boss and work colleagues, and an understanding from their employer of flexible working hours to support caring responsibilities. The results highlighted a want for better understanding career pathways in the trades, and the importance of feeling safe, both physically and mentally, at work. Results also shone a light on the importance of a workplace that is respectful of different cultures.

Tim Fowler, Chief Executive, Tertiary Education Commission commented: “We funded this work because it is important to know what barriers and opportunities are out there for women getting into trades, especially as they are an under-represented group. This survey shows there are still some perception and social barriers for women. If we can make it easier for 50% of the population to enter the trades, that could go a long way to easing skills shortages as well as improve long term career opportunities for women.”

Based on focus group data, the trade industry appeals to women for a variety of reasons, including challenging gender stereotypes, being a role model for others, and not being desk-bound. Other reasons included increased physical and mental health, strong transferrable skills and employment stability.

Challenges for entering the industry included the length of time for training, finding the required flexibility for childcare responsibilities and being unsure of how to kick-start a career in the trades.

The foundation of this report built the Trade Careers online toolkit, career reboot and employer education program and the ‘Give it a Red Hot Go!’ webseries. The full report can be downloaded at tradecareers.co. This research has been funded by Tertiary Education Commission and was carried out by Cogo Research Agency.