Two cultural worlds will combine at a Tauranga marae next week as the New Zealand String Quartet pays tribute to fallen World War I soldiers.
The internationally renowned classical musicians will perform free concerts on Wednesday and Thursday as part of local commemorations marking 100 years since the end of WWI.
The performances will take place in Tamateapokaiwhenua Meeting House at Huria Marae and have been organised by Ngāi Tamarāwaho hapū and Creative Bay of Plenty.
Hapu organiser Buddy Mikaere said the acoustics inside the marae for such a setting were "remarkable" and would add to the richness and texture of the music.
Mikaere said the concert was an innovative way to mark the end of the 100th year commemorations. It was also a fitting musical tribute to the many men from Tauranga who went away to The Great War, particularly those who lost their lives and their families, he said.