Singer John Rowles says new tour will be his last

John Rowles. Photo / Sam Ackland

Veteran crooner John Rowles has announced his last tour after 45 years in the music business.

However, he had given himself plenty of time to bow out, as the Now Is The Hour tour, which includes New Zealand, Australia, Hawaii and Britain, will take two years.

"I've given my life for the stage, for my fans, for my music. It means a lot to me to travel our beautiful country and perform one last time for all those people who have supported me over the last 45 years, and most importantly to know I'll be giving them 100 per cent. The voice feels great, I feel great and the time feels right."

Whakatane-born Rowles, 64, also wants to spend more time with his two boys Dane and Blake and complete writing his autobiography, titled If I Only Had Time.

Rowles is best known for his songs Cheryl Moana Marie and If I Only Had Time, which were international hits early in his career.

Rowles and his band begin their 20-date New Zealand tour on June 23 at Kapiti's Southward Theatre.

- NZPA