Live At the Islands draws some big music names to support conservation work. By Paula Yeoman.
Nathan Haines has played at some of the most magical settings in the world, from the Rippon Festival on the shores of Lake Wanaka, to Bali's beachfront Ku De Ta and Tokyo's famed Blue Note Festival. But the Auckland-based jazz musician reckons the gigs he's playing this summer, as part of the Live At the Island series, might just top them all.
He's already performed on Urupukapuka Island in the Bay of Islands and will join the bill again alongside Kirsten Morrell, Anika Moa and The Earlybirds on February 12, when the event travels for the first time to Motutapu Island in the Hauraki Gulf.
"I don't think I've ever played in a place like Urupukapuka. It's a bird sanctuary in this unbelievable setting. It is really, really special," he says. "I've never actually been to Motutapu. I think it's a great concept because the gulf and the harbour are really under-utilised. This is the first time they've actually said, 'Here's your ticket, here's the ferry'."
About 40 minutes by boat from downtown Auckland, Motutapu is linked to Rangitoto Island by a causeway. After years of work the island is now pest-free and the gig will support the ongoing efforts of the Motutapu Restoration Trust.
The concert is among a growing number of events, such as the Auckland Zoo concerts, that aim to raise awareness about conservation. And Haines is only too happy to be involved.
"It's a really good forum to get people interested and to bring it all together and have a really cool time. I've played at the zoo about three times and they're really good gigs."
Haines left New Zealand when he was just 19 and headed straight for New York, later relocating to London. And although he's been back in Auckland for a few years now, he admits he's getting itchy feet and is planning to return to the UK. That's not to say he'll be lost to New Zealand forever. Haines says with so many special places to play here, you can guarantee he'll be back every summer.
* Live At The Islands, Motutapu Island, February 12. For more information visit arkpresents.co.nz
- Herald On Sunday / View
