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Travellers at Auckland Airport received an unexpected musical send-off this week, as New Zealand band SIX60 performed in the international departures hall and took to the airport’s public address system to share farewell messages.
The appearance formed part of Auckland Airport’s 60th anniversary celebrations, with the band playing the opening chords of their song “Don’t Forget Your Roots” and recording personalised messages for departing passengers.
Replacing the standard PA chime, SIX60 broadcast messages to travellers heading overseas, including those leaving to study abroad or begin overseas experiences. One departing traveller and their family received a live acoustic performance in the departures hall.
Auckland Airport chief customer officer Scott Tasker says the collaboration marked a milestone for the airport.
“For 60 years Auckland Airport has grown alongside New Zealand, sending travellers off on once-in-a-lifetime adventures and sharing in countless goodbyes.
“We decided to team up with SIX60 to celebrate the special goodbyes that happen here every day, reminding New Zealanders, just like the band’s hit song, that no matter where their journeys take them, home is never far away, and their roots are always with them,” says Scott.
SIX60 frontman Matiu Walters says the airport was a fitting place to share the message behind the song.
“So many Kiwis’ international adventures start here at Auckland Airport, including our own as a band. Every time we leave for a tour, this is where it all starts and finishes.
“That’s why the country’s gateway felt like a fitting place to share the message behind the song – a reminder for all of us to stay connected to where we come from, no matter where life takes us,” says Matiu.
The band’s recorded PA messages will continue to play in the international departures area for the next month.
Zane Mahon, who received the acoustic performance, says the moment made his departure memorable.
“It was a big moment for me leaving Auckland to head to Sydney for study, and it was a pretty emotional goodbye with my family. Having SIX60 show up and sing for us at the airport made it really special and is something I will never forget.”
Lyric art wall unveiled
Alongside the PA announcements, Auckland Airport has unveiled a 10 metre by 2 metre lyric art wall at the front entrance to the international terminal featuring the words “Don’t Forget Your Roots”.
The work was painted by Tāmaki Makaurau artist Jonny Higher.
“It’s an epic project to be a part of, and a fitting farewell to my fellow voyagers off on their adventures. I feel it’s going to spark a wonderful sense of Kiwi pride for travellers. I loved painting this and even hearing people passing by starting to sing the lyrics as they realised what it was,” says Jonny.
Album launch and travel giveaway
The collaboration coincides with the release of SIX60’s fifth studio album, Right Here Right Now, launched on Friday, February 13, and the announcement of the band’s first concert at One New Zealand Stadium selling out.
Fans can enter a draw at six60.co.nz to win two tickets to any concert on the band’s next world tour, along with flights and accommodation to the value of $10,000, provided by Auckland Airport.
